Introduction

A prompt, well-coordinated and effective response mounted in the aftermath of disasters

not only minimizes loss of life and property but also facilitates early recovery. The important
ingredients of an effective response system are:
a) integrated institutional arrangements;
b) State of the art forecasting and early warning systems;
c) Safe communication system;
d) Rapid evacuation of threatened communities;
e) Quick deployment of specialized response forces and
f) Coordination and synergy among various agencies at various levels

Most importantly, all the agencies and their functionaries must clearly understand their roles
and responsibilities and the specific actions they have to take for responding to disaster or
threatening disaster situations.
This SOP lays down, in a comprehensive manner, the specific actions required to be taken by
various committees under the control of Government of Pola for responding to natural disasters
of any magnitude and dimension.
The objectives of the SOP are:
(a) To provide, in a concise and convenient form, a list of major executive actions involved
in responding to natural disasters and necessary measures for preparedness, response
and relief required to be taken;
(b) (b) To ensure that all concerned Departments and Organizations of the Pola know the
precise measures required of them at each stage of the process and also to ensure that
all actions are closely and continuously coordinated; and
(c) (c) To indicate various actions which would require to be taken by various
departments and organizations so that they may prepare and review the Contingency
Action Plans accordingly.
The SOP encompasses the following five phases of disaster management for effective and
efficient response to natural disasters:
a) Preparedness Phase
This phase will include taking all necessary measures for planning, capacity building and
other preparedness so as to be in a state of readiness to respond, in the event of a natural disaster.
This Stage will also include development of Search and Rescue Teams, mobilization of resources
and taking measures in terms of equipping, providing training, conducting mock drills/exercises,
etc.
b) Early Warning Phase
 This phase will include all necessary measures to provide timely, qualitative and
quantitative warnings to the disaster managers to enable them to take pre-emptive measures for
preventing loss of life and reducing loss/damage to the property. On the occurrence of a natural
disaster or imminent threat thereof, all the concerned committees will be informed/notified for
initiating immediate necessary follow up action.
c) Response Phase
This phase will include all necessary measures to provide immediate action to the
affected people by undertaking search, rescue and evacuation measures: Incident Response
Teams shall be deployed.
d) Relief Phase
This phase will include all necessary measures to provide immediate relief and action to
the affected people in terms of their essential needs of food, drinking water, health and hygiene,
clothing, shelter, etc.
1. Where necessary free distributions of food shall be made to those who need the
food most.
2. The food distribution will be discontinued as soon as possible.
3. Wherever possible dry rations shall be provided for home cooking.
4. Community Kitchen for mass feeding shall be organized only for an initial period
following a major disaster particularly where affected people do not have the means
to cook.
5. While providing food assistance, local food practices shall be kept in mind and
commodities being provided must be carefully chosen, in consultation with the
affected population.
6. Foods must be of good quality, safe to consume, and appropriate and acceptable
to recipients.
7. Rations for general food distributions shall be adopted to bridge the gap between the
affected population's requirements and their own food resources.
8. Food distributed should be of appropriate quality and fit for human consumption.
9. Food should be stored, prepared and consumed in a safe and appropriate manner at both
household and community levels.
10. Food should be distributed in a responsive, transparent, equitable manner.
11. NGOs, CBOs and other social organizations should be involved for supplementing
the efforts of the Government.
12. The nutritional needs of the population should be met and malnutrition and
micronutrient deficiencies of identified at risk groups addressed
e) Restoration Stage
This phase will include all necessary measures to stabilize the situation and restore the
utilities.
1. Team for rapid assessment of damage shall be deployed.
 2. Line Departments/agencies shall begin work for restoration of
power, telecommunication, surface transport, etc.
Action Plan
Specific hazards have different categories of alerts as indicted below. For the purpose of
dissemination of alerts to community, a uniform system has been devised by categorizing each
type of alert in stages.

Yellow Stage (READY)

a. At the National Level PHIVOLCS and PAGASA have been designated for
generating/forecasting of events of natural disasters. Onset of disaster shall be indicated
through forecasting by the each Agencies in respect of their respective hazards to
NDRRMC as per laid down protocol.
b. Based on the forecasts, NDRRMC shall be responsible to issue Watch, Alerts
and Warning to the next level designated authorities.
c. OCD will transmit information on disaster situations falling in yellow stage PDRRMO.
d. Alerts will be transmitted further by PDRRMO to MDRRM officer of LGU.
e. Alert messages will also be sent by MDRRMO to the concerned Barangay Chairman for
their information and necessary action where required.
Orange Stage (GET SET)
a. A soon as the orange Watch/Alerts/warning has been issued by the concerned
agencies MDRRMC shall be fully activated.
b. OPCEN/EOC shall also be activated to respond to the situation with available
manpower and resources.
c. Alerts will be transmitted by MDRRMO to all Barangays Officials.
d. All concerned community leaders will be informed by Barangay Officials to be
in readiness and make all necessary standby arrangements.
e. First and foremost task shall be informing the community likely to be affected by the
disaster through a warning system and undertake evacuation. There shall be only one
responsible agency/officer designated and authorized to issue the warning in respect of a
disaster to avoid miscommunication and as also indiscriminate warning may result in
non-responsiveness of the people.
f. Dissemination of warning to common people may range from alarms sirens, public
announcement system like radio, television, loud speakers, hoisting of flags (floods, and
landslides).
g. Once the warning is issued it shall be followed-up by subsequent warnings in order to
keep the people informed of the latest situation. While warning is issued, warning
messages shall be user friendly. The warning protocols shall be designed in simple
and local languages easily understandable to a common man.
h. Cancellation of classes will be issued by focal person from LGU.
 i. Activation of Evacuation Management Committee.
Red Stage (GO)
a. All concerned committees are be required to stay at Operation Center in occurrence of
the disaster events falling under the Red Stage.
b. Committees will constantly monitor the situation and transmit hourly updates
to concerned agencies.
c. Evacuation committee shall take pre-emptive measures of evacuation if necessary, listing
all necessary pre-emptive measures based on the warning will be prepared.
d. Quick Response Teams (QRTs), Search and Rescue Teams, medical and
Paramedical teams shall be deployed.
e. MDRRMC shall review the situation and activate coordination with NFA,
various groceries owners for possible relief operation.

Guidelines on Response to Flood and Typhoon

Legal Basis
Republic Act 10121 “An Act strengthening the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Framework and Institutionalizing the National Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Plan, Appropriating Funds Therefore and for the Other Purposes”.
Purpose
Attain “Zero Casualty” during FLOOD and TYPHOON though the effective and efficient use
of a systematic approach by Pola Emergency Response Team.
Basic Concepts, Principles and Guideposts
MDRRMC ensures operational readiness for disaster management response operation by
maintaining personnel efficiency level through trainings and capability enhancement activities,
and provision of adequate and effective response tools and equipment.
Responsibilities
Disaster Response Team are required to respond to the damaging effect of FLOOD and
TYPHOON. Support other agencies in the conduct of disaster response.
Definitions
Typhoon – an extreme large, powerful and destructive storm or weather disturbance that occur
in the country.
Flood – sudden water rising brought by torrential rains that cover an area of land. After
Operation Report – reports after a response conducted Contingency Plan – forward planning
approach in the state of uncertainty in which scenario and objective are agreed, managerial and
technical action defined, potential response system put in place in order to prevent, or better
respond to catastrophe.
Lifelines - refer to electricity, water sources, telecommunication, access roads, major
government facilities, hospitals, that if affected may hamper efforts for response.
General Procedures
Pre / Before
1. Formulation of contingency plan for flood and typhoon.
2. Orientation of contingency plan.
3. Installation of warning signs for flood.
4. Conduct information education campaign to the residents of coastal areas and low lying areas.
5. Conduct of evacuation drill.
6. Procurement of necessary equipment.
7. Training of responders. When there is signal already
1. Conduct MDRRM meeting.
2. Activate Operation Center.
3. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative advises rescue team with their
equipment to standby.
4. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative coordinates with other government
agencies in the conduct of disaster response operation/support needed.
5. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative alerts first responder to secure
their own family.
6. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative activates SRR team.
7. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative updates the LCE on the availability
of resources (personnel and equipment) for response or SAR operation.
8. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative raises alerts based on the prevailing
situation. 9. PNP and Rescue team conduct pre-emptive or force evacuation.
10. Warning officer advises Barangay Captains to conduct trimming of trees
along national and barangay roads.
11. MDRRMC prepares relief goods.
 Actual / During
1. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative coordinates with the LCE/IC.
2. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative advises DRT to standby.
3. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative advises DRT to secure themselves from
the clear and present danger brought by the landfall of the typhoon.
4. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative withdraws operation team upon
imminent danger and direct them to standby at the EOC or seek shelter at the safe area in the
area of operations.
5. Operations officer conduct continues monitoring on the situation in barangays.
Post / After
1. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative mobilized SRR team and equipment.
2. Activate ICS if necessary.
3. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative coordinates with other teams for operations
(Security, medical and clearing operation team)
4. Mobilize volunteer on other force multiplier if necessary.
5. PNP, BFP and rescue team conduct clearing operation.
6. Evacuation Management Team conduct distribution of relief good to affected families in
and out of evacuation centers.
7. MDRRMO provides update of the situation to the Mayor.
8. Operation officer notifies PDRRMO and OCD through situation report.
Effectiveness Criteria
Immediate evacuation of the residents to high ground/ safe evacuation facilities.
Required by the Process / Procedure
 Situation Report
 Progress Report
 Final Report
 Guidelines on Response to Landslide
Legal Basis
Republic Act 10121 “An Act strengthening the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Framework and Institutionalizing the National Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Plan, Appropriating Funds Therefore and for the Other Purposes”.
Purpose
Attain “Zero Casualty” during Earthquake though the effective and efficient use of a systematic
approach by Pola Emergency Response Team.
Basic Concepts, Principles and Guideposts
MDRRMC ensures operational readiness for disaster management response operation by
maintaining personnel efficiency level through trainings and capability enhancement activities,
and provision of adequate and effective response tools and equipment.
Responsibilities
Disaster Response Team are required to respond to the damaging effect of landslide. Support
other agencies in the conduct of disaster response.
Definitions
Landslide – Bulk transfer of earth materials down the slope as a result of gravity due to heavy
rains or abrupt movement of soil and bedrock downhill in response to gravity. Landslide can be
triggered by an earthquake or other natural causes.
After Operation Report – reports after a response conducted
Contingency Plan – forward planning approach in the state of uncertainty in which scenario and
objective are agreed, managerial and technical action defined, potential response system put in
place in order to prevent, or better respond to catastrophe
Lifelines – refer to electricity, water sources, telecommunication, access roads, major
government facilities, hospitals, that if affected may hamper efforts for response
General Procedures
Pre / Before
1. Formulation of contingency plan for landslide.
2. Orientation of contingency plan.
3. Secure copy of landslide prone areas within AOR from Mines and Geosciences
Bureau (MGB) or National Mapping Resource Information Authority (NAMREA)
4. Installation of hazard warning signs.
5. Conduct information education campaign to the residents of landslide prone areas.
6. Procurement of equipment.
7. Training of responders.
Actual / During
1. MDRRMO prepare response teams for immediate mobilization
Post / After
1. MDRRMO coordinates with the LCE
2. Activate ICS if necessary
3. Activate SRR team and equipment to respond immediately upon receipt of report on
landslide affected area.
4. Mobilize volunteer on other force multiplier if necessary.
5. Operation officer activates team for clearing operation to make the access road passable
for possible SRR operation.
6. Provide first aid to rescued victims and transport them to the nearest hospital.
7. MDRRMO request assistance or seek outside help from unaffected area.
8. MDRRMO provides update of the situation to the Mayor
9. Operation officer notifies PDRRMO and OCD through situation report.
1. MDRRMO coordinates with the LCE 2. Activate ICS if necessary 3. Activate SRR team and
equipment to respond immediately upon receipt of report on landslide affected area. 4. Mobilize
volunteer on other force multiplier if necessary. 5. Operation officer activates team for clearing
operation to make the access road passable for possible SRR operation. 6. Provide first aid to
rescued victims and transport them to the nearest hospital. 7. MDRRMO request assistance or
seek outside help from unaffected area. 8. MDRRMO provides update of the situation to the
Mayor 9. Operation officer notifies PDRRMO and OCD through situation report.
Effectiveness Criteria
Voluntary relocation of the element at risk (community) from the landslide prone area.
Required By The Process / Procedure
 Situation Report
 Progress Report
 Final Report
 Guidelines on Response to Tsunami
Legal Basis
Republic Act 10121 “An Act strengthening the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Framework and Institutionalizing the National Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Plan, Appropriating Funds Therefore and for the Other Purposes”.
Purpose
Attain “Zero Casualty” during TSUNAMI though the effective and efficient use of a systematic
approach by Pola Emergency Response Team.
Basic Concepts, Principles and Guideposts
MDRRMC ensures operational readiness for disaster management response operation by
maintaining personnel efficiency level through trainings and capability enhancement activities,
and provision of adequate and effective response tools and equipment.
Responsibilities
Disaster Response Team are required to respond to the damaging effect of tsunami. Support
other agencies in the conduct of disaster response.
Definitions
Tsunami – giant sea wave resulting from the disturbance of the ocean floor by an earthquake.
After Operation Report – reports after a response conducted
Contingency Plan – forward planning approach in the state of uncertainty in which scenario and
objective are agreed, managerial and technical action defined, potential response system put in
place in order to prevent, or better respond to catastrophe.
Lifelines – refer to electricity, water sources, telecommunication, access roads, major
government facilities, hospitals, that if affected may hamper efforts for response.
General Procedures
Pre / Before
1. Formulation of contingency plan for tsunami.
2. Orientation of contingency plan
3. Installation of tsunami warning signs.
4. Conduct information education campaign to the residents of coastal areas.
5. Conduct of tsunami drill.
6. Procurement of necessary equipment.
7. Training of responders.
Actual / During
1. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative coordinates with the LCE/IC.
2. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative advises DRT to standby.
3. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative advises DRT to secure themselves from
the clear and present danger of the tsunami.
4. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative withdraws operation team upon
imminent danger and direct them to standby at the EOC or seek shelter at the safe area in the
area of operations
Post / After
1. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative mobilized SRR team and equipment.
2. Activate ICS if necessary. 3. MDRRMO or his duly authorized representative coordinates with
other teams for operations (security, medical and clearing operation team)
4. Mobilize volunteer on other force multiplier if necessary.
5. Provide first aid to rescued victims and transport them to the nearest hospital.
6. MDRRMO request assistance or seek outside help from unaffected area.
7. MDRRMO provides update of the situation to the Mayor.
8. Operation officer notifies PDRRMO and OCD through situation report.

Effectiveness Criteria
Immediate evacuation of the residents to high ground/ safe evacuation facilities.
Required By The Process / Procedure
 Situation Report
 Progress Report
 Final Report
Guidelines on Response to Fire and Earthquake
1. Call taker/Dispatch Officer upon receiving a call from the informant about fire or earthquake
incident shall take note of the exact location and the name of informant. (If for Fire Incident,
call taker/dispatch officer shall ask informant the exact time the fire started and if there are any
persons trapped. For earthquake, if there is any damage on infrastructures and if there are
persons trapped inside it.)
2. Once the team has been dispatched, the dispatcher shall make inform the caller/informant
that the Pola Emergency Response Team is on their way to the scene.
3. Once the team arrives at the scene, the Transport Officer shall inform the Emergency
Operations Center (EOC) on the time the team arrived at the scene.
4. Once the team arrives at the scene, the Transport Officer shall inform the Emergency
Operations Center (EOC) on the time the team arrived at the scene.
5. The Transport Officer will inform Rescue Base once they arrived at the scene. The Team
Leader will act as the Safety Officer and do the scene size up. If the scene is unsafe,
withdraw and wait for backup, wait for Bureau of Fire Protection instructions (for fire
incidents). If the scene is safe, move and validate the number and extent of injuries of the
victims.
6. Responders will observe precautions BEFORE entering the damaged building:
6.1 Observe construction of the building and collapsed portion
6.2 Check whether the walls need any supporting
6.3 Be careful for possible hazards which may occur from the exposed household
equipment
6.4 Use proper PPE
6.5 Work in pairs
6.6 Listen for possible sounds coming from trapped victims
6.7 Keep calling
6.8 Do not touch or disturb any damaged walls or blocked doors which are broken and
or projecting
6.9 Treat all necked wires as live wire

7. Responders will observe precautions WHILE moving inside the damaged building:
7.1 Do not ignite fire
7.2 Keep close to the wall
7.3 Be careful in all your movements
7.4 Do not pull anything projecting out from the collapsed portions
8. Assess victim/s and give first aid management once extricated.

9. If there are multiple victims involved, the Team Leader act as the Triage Officer will do
the TRIAGE for prioritization. Once triaging is done, extricate and provide first aid
management (prioritization is based on the triage, with the rule “greatest good to the greatest
number”).

10. If the condition of the victim requires referral to a hospital, refer the client to hospital of
choice. If the client is unconscious, let the significant other (if present) decide. If the client is
conscious and does not want to be brought to a hospital (though requires further management
to a hospital), let the client sign the waiver for hospital referral refusal and endorse to
significant other. If no significant other is present on scene, client will be endorsed to barangay
officials or PNP.
11. While in transit to hospital, Transport Officer shall inform Rescue Base of the team’s present
status (name of hospital, number and status of client). Given these information, the dispatch
shall make an advance call to the hospital of choice informing them that a client will be brought
to their facility for further evaluation and management.

12. Upon arrival at the hospital of choice, the transport officer shall inform the EOC on the
time of their arrival at the hospital. The medical crew shall endorse the client to the Doctor or
Nurse on Duty and let them sign the patient care report (PCR).

13. After endorsing the client/s to the definitive care, the team shall return back to EOC for
after care of the ambulance, completion of PCR and documentation.

14. The Incident Commander/Team Leader shall note any signs of distress caused by the
response operation. He/she shall conduct psychosocial first aid activity to the team to
prevent and mitigate the psychological impacts of the incident to the responders.

Guidelines on Response to Vehicular Accident

1. Upon receiving information about a vehicular accident, the call taker/dispatch officer
shall ask for information on exact location, the name of the client, the condition of
the client, the name of the informant.
2. The call taker/dispatch officer shall dispatch the team. One (1) team of ambulance
crew shall compose of the Team leader, Safety Officer, Medical First Aider/s,
Logistics and Transport Officer.
3. Once the team has been dispatched, the dispatch officer shall inform the caller/informant
that the Pola Emergency Response Team is on their way to the scene. The dispatch shall
proceed to virtual patient assessment and shall provide necessary first aid instructions
over the line.
4. The dispatch officer shall make a radio call to the team dispatched and inform them
about the current condition of the client and the instructions provided to the client or to
significant other.
5. Once the team arrives at the scene, the Transport Officer shall inform the
Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on the time the team arrived at the scene.
6. The dispatcher shall validate this and reassure the caller/informant.
7. The assigned Safety Officer shall conduct the scene size up. If the scene is unsafe, the
team should stay away from the scene or get only close enough to make an
assessment. The team shall activate a necessary back up to stabilize the scene. If the
scene warrants the operation, move and validate the number and extent of injuries of
the victims.
8. The team shall proceed to the assessment of patient/s and begin the treatment by
working for any life threatening injuries present.
9. If the incident requires extrication or specialized rescue, inform the dispatch
regarding the actions to be taken and additional resources you might be needed.
10. In case of Mass Casualty Incident such as accidents involving multiple vehicles or fuel
leaks, the Team Leader shall established the ICS and request for additional resources
to the EOC.
11. Once the patient has been treated and administered with first aid and determined the
priority and need to transport, refer the client to the definitive care.
12. While in transit to hospital, Transport Officer shall inform Rescue Base of the team’s
present status (name of hospital, number and status of client). Given these information,
the dispatch Officer shall make an advance call to the hospital of choice informing
them that a client will be brought to their facility for further evaluation and
management.
13. Upon arrival at the hospital of choice, the transport officer shall inform the EOC on the
time of their arrival at the hospital. The medical crew shall endorse the client to the
Doctor or Nurse on Duty and let them sign the patient care report (PCR).
14. After endorsing the client/s to the definitive care, the team shall return back to EOC for
after care of the ambulance, completion of PCR and documentation.
15. The Incident Commander/Team Leader shall note any signs of distress caused by the
response operation. He/she shall conduct psychosocial first aid activity to the team
to prevent and mitigate the psychological impacts of the incident to the responders.

Guidelines on Response to Water Related Emergencies

1. Call taker/Dispatch Officer upon receiving information about drowning incident and
other water related emergencies from informant shall take note of exact location of
drowning victim, number of victims, clothes worn, age and gender of the victim, are
the victim/s rescued from the water, the needs for Basic Life Support and if there are
still victim/s to be searched.
2. The call taker/dispatch officer shall activate the Water Search and Rescue Team
(composed of the Team Leader, Water Search and Rescue trained personnel, Transport
Officer) and Emergency Medical Services (composed of Team Leader, Medical Team,
Logistic and Transport Officer). For multiple victims of drowning, two or more
WASAR Teams shall be dispatched.
3. After team has been dispatched, the call taker/dispatch officer shall make a return call to
the informant telling him/her that a WASAR Team is on their way to the scene. The
dispatcher shall ask the informant if there is anyone on the scene who can help such as
nurse, EMTs or trained lay rescuers. If none are available, instruct the informant not to
let anyone carry or move the victim/s and to direct bystanders as crowd controllers. This
is to prevent further injury to the victim/s.
4. The call taker/dispatch officer shall make a radio call to the responding team and
inform them about the condition and extent of injury of the victims based on the data
gathered
 from the informant. The call taker/dispatch officer shall also make a radio or phone
call/message to PNP station regarding the incident.
5. The Transport Officer shall inform the EOC regarding the time of their arrival at the
scene. The assigned Safety Officer shall conduct the scene size up. If the scene is
hazardous, withdraw and call for necessary back up. If the scene warrants the
operation, the WASAR team shall proceed in the response operations.
6. For active drowning, the Water Search and Rescue personnel identifies proper technique
to be used:
6.1 Talk Rescue
6.2 Reach
6.3 Throw
6.4 Row
Once the victim/s is/are retrieved, the WASAR Team shall endorse client to Emergency
Medical Services. EMS shall assess the client; perform Basic Life Support if needed.
7. If there are missing victim/s, search vicinity and adjacent areas. If the victim/s is
retrieved after 24 hours, and there is sign of irreversible death, endorse victim/s to PNP.
If retrieved after a few minutes of drowning, assess victim/s and make resuscitation
measures as needed.
8. If the condition of the victim/s requires referral to a hospital, refer the client to hospital
of choice. If the client is unconscious, let the significant other (if present) decide. If the
client is conscious and does not want to be brought to a hospital (though requires further
management to a hospital), let the client sign the waiver for hospital referral refusal and
endorse to significant other. If no significant other is present on scene, the client shall be
endorsed to barangay officials or PNP.
9. While on transit, the Transport Officer shall inform EOC regarding the team’s present
status (name of hospital, number and status of client). Given these information, call
taker/dispatch officer shall make an advance call to the hospital of choice informing them
that a client will be brought there for further evaluation and management.
10. Upon arrival at the hospital of choice, Transport Officer shall also inform the EOC
on their arrival time. The medical crew shall endorse the victim/s and properly to the
Resident on Duty or Nurse on Duty and let them sign the PCR.
11. After endorsing the client/s to the definitive care, the team shall return back to EOC
for after care of the ambulance, completion of PCR and documentation.
12. If the victim/s is not retrieved, continue search and retrieval operation. Note the
criteria when to stop search and retrieval operation as follows:
12.1 When the situation/scene becomes unsafe for the operation
12.3 When victim/s family withdraw the operation
12.3 When the operation exceeds 5 working days
13. The Incident Commander/Team Leader shall note any signs of distress caused by the
response operation. He/she shall conduct psychosocial first aid activity to the team
to prevent and mitigate the psychological impacts of the incident to the responders.

Guidelines in availing Ambulance Transport Service from MDRRMO Pola

1. The Team Leader shall act as the Incident Commander and designates his members
as safety officer, logistics, medical/first aiders and transport officer.
2. Ambulance transport services are strictly for EMERGENCY CASES or high risk
cases only. Case identified are: Spinal Cord Injury, head injury or any neurologic
condition that is considered immediately life threatening, cases with severe
bleeding, cardiac and chronic/critical respiratory cases (compromised circulation or
respiration).
3. Availability of Ambulance Transport service shall depend on the presence of
transport ambulance, transport officer, responders, and nurses/midwife. If there are
no available on any of the mentioned, request for transport will not be granted except
for emergency case transport within the Province of Oriental Mindoro.
4. Requesting hospitals shall call the Operation Center hotline numbers and check for
the availability of ambulance and responders prior to sending the requesting party
to the Operation Center.
5. Request for transport shall be on first come first serve basis; however changes
in decking may happen depending on case prioritization.
6. The requesting party (immediate relatives or Significant others of client/s) shall report
personally to Operation Center to fill out the requesting form and to discuss important
guidelines prior to transport. If the client condition warrants immediate transport
upon the order of the Physician, guidelines and filling up transport form shall be
accomplished while on transit.
7. Request for transport shall be well coordinated to the clinic/hospital/ health
care facility of destination by the requesting party prior to transport for ease of
endorsement.
8. Request for transport from residence or any hospital shall only be catered if the
patient is at risk of having additional injuries such like in the case of Spinal
Cord Injury patients, head injury, life threatening neurologic conditions,
compromised circulation, respiration and lower extremity fracture.
9. Relatives accompanying the patient will be limited to two (2). This is to give space
and access for the responders when unwarranted situation arise while on transit and
to prevent any overloading.
10. For client/s admitted that needs to be transported, the hospital shall provide an
accompanying nurse/midwife depending on the need of the situation to better
facilitate endorsement to the receiving facility/ institution.
11. If in case during client transport, the client experiences any difficulty, he/she will be
brought to the nearest hospital. He/ she will be conveyed again once the doctor
declares he/she is safe to travel. However, the ambulance should not wait for more
than six (6) hours.
12. If in case the patient expired inside the ambulance, the patient shall be immediately
brought to the nearest hospital and will be endorsed there. The patient shall not be
loaded on the ambulance again and will no longer be transported to the receiving
hospital/ original destination.
13. All emergency calls on OB cases will be treated as transport, unless if it is
life threatening based on the assessment of responders.
14. For OB cases to be transported from their residence to hospital, transport requests
shall only be catered if the request comes from the Barangay Midwife and if the
case is really considered high risk. (Midwife on their area of responsibility shall
accompany the responders to the client/s home and into the referring hospital for
proper management and ease of endorsement.)
15. For OB cases from hospital to another hospital, the Doctor from the referring
hospital shall state the real condition of the patient and explain thoroughly to the
relatives the purpose of transfer to hospital. The Doctor shall also make a phone
endorsement to the receiving hospital regarding the status or current condition of the
client. The Referring hospital shall also provide nurse/midwife depending on the
need of the situation to accompany the responders for ease of endorsement to the
receiving hospital.
16. For Mentally Ill cases, the patient should not be in the violent/ aggressive state to
prevent any harm to our responders and his/her significant others. If the client is
violent/ aggressive, the relative should bring the patient to a physician to be
given medication to calm him/her prior to transport.
17. For Client/s not residing in the Municipality of Pola shall contact / coordinate with
the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office to cater client/s request
as for their area of responsibility.
18. Bringing excess baggage during transport is strongly discouraged to give space
for responders in providing care to the client in unwarranted situations.
19. During unwarranted situations in far flung Barangays within the Municipality of
Pola, requesting for emergency transport of clients from residence to hospital of their
choice, barangay government vehicles shall be utilized provided that the vehicle is
available. The Barangay Captain who is in-charge of the barangay government
vehicle must be informed. If no barangay government vehicle is available, private
vehicle can also be used provided it will not cause additional injuries or inflict serious
harm to the client. MDRRMO ambulance will also be dispatched to accommodate the
client transported by the barangay government vehicle or private vehicle and load the
 client in the ambulance. Client assessment and management shall be made and
monitor client condition in the ambulance while on transit.
20. All policies and guidelines listed will be thoroughly explained to the requesting party.

Guidelines on Dispatch
1. Emergency call or text or radio message, or walk in asking for emergency medical services
or ambulance transport. The call taker/dispatcher asks the following:
a) What happened?
b) Name of the caller/ informant.
c) Patient Information
d) Location of the client and intended destination
2. For Vehicular Accidents, ask:
a) What happened?
b) Location and time of the incident.
c) How many are injured?
d) What vehicle/s is/are involved?
e) Name of the caller/ informant.
f) Help already available.
3. Proceed for what help will be needed?
a. For incidents requiring security, investigation or crowd control, the
call taker/dispatcher shall notify the Pola Municipal Police Station (Pola MPS).
b. For incidents involving active or possible occurrence of fire or explosion, multiple
casualty or hazardous materials, the call taker/dispatcher shall alert the Bureau of Fire
Protection (BFP) – Pola.
c. For incidents involving multiple or mass casualties, the call taker/dispatcher
shall dispatch two or more teams and shall notify the nearby hospital/s for the possible
multiple casualties referral. The call taker/dispatcher shall notify other response teams if
the need overwhelmed our resources available.
d. For fire and earthquake incident, the call taker/dispatcher shall notify the
Pola Municipal Police Station and Bureau of Fire Protection.
e. For water related emergencies, the call taker/dispatcher shall activate the WASAR
Team. The call taker/dispatcher shall dispatch needed resources such as motorized boats and
trained manpower.
f. For incidents requiring technical rescue such as collapse structure or high angle
rescue, the call taker/dispatcher shall activate the Search and Rescue team. For additional
resources, notify the BFP and other trained response teams.
4. The call taker/dispatcher shall monitor and provide updates to the team/s through
radio communication or cellular phone.
5. The call taker/dispatcher shall keep the caller stay on the line or make return call every 5
minutes for incidents requiring virtual first aid management and close monitoring of
patient/s.
6. The call taker/dispatcher shall serve as the “first responder” by providing adequate, correct
and clear emergency care instructions to the caller/informant while the team is in transit to the
place of incident.
7. The call taker/dispatcher shall maintain a calm, reassuring and respectful attitude in
handling distress calls.
8. The call taker/dispatcher shall record the time the team dispatched, arrived at the scene, re-
routed to hospital, arrived at the hospital and returned back to the EOC for documentation
purpose.

Guidelines on Response to Water Rescue Operations

LEGAL BASIS
Republic Act 10121 “An Act strengthening the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Framework and Institutionalizing the National Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Plan, Appropriating Funds Therefore and for the Other Purposes”
PURPOSE
Ensure operational standards in rescue operations during water rescue operations.
BASIC CONCEPTS, PRINCIPLES AND GUIDEPOSTS
Water rescue operations are dangerous thus training, drills, and equipage are necessary.
Likewise, no untrained MDRRMO personnel shall take part in this SAR operation due to its
inherent risks. Constant situational awareness shall be observed.
The first arriving unit shall assume command of the incident.
This unit shall remain in command until command is transferred to a higher authority.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Special Rescue Unit, command officers, first responders and other personnel responding to this
particular incident shall perform specific task.
DEFINITIONS:
Water Rescue – a subset of technical rescue dealing in still or running water conditions which
involves the use of specialized trained personnel, ropes, and mechanical advantage system to
assist in the rescue of the endangered persons.
GENERAL PROCEDURES
PRE/ BEFORE
1. Team Leader ensures resource operability at all times.
2. After the duty receives the distress call, the Team Leader relays it to the hierarchical positions
of the Special Operations.
3. Team Documenter gathers necessary information before leaving the base.
4. The Team Radio Operator seeks clearance from the dispatch center before proceeding to
the location of emergency.
5. The Team Leader coordinates with the first responders and assumes command when necessary
and performs scene size up.
6. The Team Leader prepares operation, tactical plans, and assigns teams up and down streams.
 ACTUAL/DURING
1. The Team Leader ensures personnel safety at all time.
2. Rescue Team conducts operation with minimal risk by doing the following:
2.1 TALK – if water is calm or slow moving, talk to the victim for self-rescue if possible.
2.2 REACH – reach the victim using tools and pull him out from the water.
2.3 THROW – throw rescue bag/floatation device to the victim “haul” the victim(s) to
the bank. 2.4 ROW – a boat-based operation shall be utilized, assign accompany on the
opposite bank to assist in stablishing an anchor for an approved rope system.
2.5 GO – have a rescue swimmer approach the victim.
Note: Rescue personnel shall never be attached to a lifeline without the benefit
of a quickrelease mechanism approved for water rescue. Rescue personnel shall never do
a “breath-hold” surface dive in an attempt to locate a victim beneath the surface of the
water.
3. The Team Leader turns over the victim to the EMS for appropriate care.
POST/AFTER
1. The Team Leader ensures personnel account
2. The Team Leader considers decontamination of rescuers.
3. The Logistic Officers recovers all tools and equipment used
4. Team Leader considers a Post Incident Critique (may be more appropriate at a later date).
5. The Response Team returns to unit after returning all
equipment EFFECTIVENE SSCRITERIA
When the victim is out of danger and given initial health care. When all responders are safe and
without injuries after the operations.
REQUIRED BY THE PROCESS/ PROCEDURE
 Post activity report

Guidelines on Response to Infection Control and Exposure

LEGAL BASIS
Republic Act 10121 “An Act strengthening the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Framework and Institutionalizing the National Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Plan, Appropriating Funds Therefore and for the Other Purposes”
PURPOSE
Ensure the personal health, safety, and well-being of all EMS personnel and their patients during
EMS operations.
BASIC CONCEPTS, PRINCIPLES AND GUIDEPOSTS
Consider all blood or bodily fluids as infectious. Proper hand washing is the simplest, yet most
effective way to control disease transmission.
Infection control should be an important part of your daily routine. Obtain Hepatitis B
vaccination and other vaccines as recommended. Handle “sharps” (needles) carefully – properly
disposed in a closed, rigid, marked container.
Ask the patient, relative, and/or property authority for permission to take photos for
documentation.
Edit the photos to be used by placing a black bar over the yes to hide the identity of the patient or
victim.
Ask the patient, relative, and/or property authority for permission to take photos for
documentation. Edit the photos to be used by placing a black bar over the yes to hide the identity
of the patient or victim.
Ask the patient, relative, and/or property authority for permission to take photos for
documentation.
Edit the photos to be used by placing a black bar over the face to hide the identity of the patient
or victim.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The Team Leader - shall ensure that all team members are wearing the PPE properly.
Ambulance Crew - shall check each other to ensure their partners are wearing PPE during
response.
GENERAL
PROCEDURES PRE/
BEFORE
1. Ambulance Crew ensures there are enough PPE’s during inventory and endorsement of duty.
2. Responding team always don the PPEs while en route to respond and especially if there is a
possibility of exposure to blood and other body fluids.
3. Any member of responding team changes to clean, new gloves for every patient contact
or when gloves are soiled or torn during patient handling.
4. Team members may use waterless hand washing substitute / hand sanitizer before and after
contact with a patient eveif wearing gloves.
5. Ambulance Crew wears gown, apron, or vest when expecting exposure to large amounts
of blood or body fluids.
6. If the patient is suspected to have an airborne disease, Ambulance crew puts on surgical
mask on the patient if the patient can tolerate it.
7. Ambulance Crew uses pocket masks or bag valve masks for ventilation.
ACTUAL/DURING
1. The team leader documents and makes a report to the Medical Control if there is a case of
exposure among the responding team members.
2. The Medical Control provides guidance in cases of exposure incident and follow up.
3. Ambulance Driver airs out the ambulance for 5-10 minutes, and uses disinfectant aerosol
spray before leaving the hospital.
4. Ambulance Crew places any medical waste in a red bag and disposes them at the
hospital’s garbage bin whenever possible. Ambulance Crew wears proper protective
equipment when cleaning contaminated equipment.
5. Ambulance Driver and EMS Crew use heavy-duty utility gloves to clean the ambulance using
a bleach and water solution, specifically at a 1:10 dilution.
 POST/AFTER
1. The Ambulance Crew airs out the ambulance by leaving the doors open for 5-10 minutes
before returning to base. Use aerosols / disinfectant spray to sanitize the ambulance.
2. Any member of the EMS team notifies dispatch of the arrival at EMS Base.
3. The Ambulance Crew cleans, disinfects the ambulance and equipment, and discards
all soiled supplies used like gauze, gloves, etc.
4. The assigned Ambulance Crew makes an inventory and re-stock supplies.
5. The Team Leader or Crew Member completes and files any additional reports.
6. The Team Leader conducts defusing / debriefing or post- run evaluation, as needed.
EFFECTIVENE SSCRITERIA
A physically fit EMS crew capable of continuing his/her duties after an EMS response.
Patients safely endorsed to medical facility.
REQUIRED BY THE PROCCES/PROCEDURE
 Post activity report

Guidelines on Response to Medical Stand-by (Special Activities)

LEGAL BASIS
Republic Act 10121 “An Act strengthening the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Framework and Institutionalizing the National Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Plan, Appropriating Funds Therefore and for the Other Purposes”
PURPOSE
Provide guidance to EMS teams who will serve as medical standby.
BASIC CONCEPTS, PRINCIPLES AND GUIDEPOSTS
Request letter must have a complete detail of the event, date and time, number of participants,
contact person, exact location and the number of ambulance units requested.
Request letter must be submitted 1-2 weeks prior to said event. Medical Standby must be
reported to dispatch.
Ambulance Unit/s are parked in a combat position, ready for a fast exit in case of patient
transport.
For an event more than 500 participants, EMS Team Leader conducts a venue ocular or request a
site map.
Ask the patient, relative and / or property authority for permission to take photos for
documentation.
Edit the photos to be used by placing a black bar over the eyes to hide the identity of the patient
or victim.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Medical Control – gives directives and oversight patient care.
Team Leader – Coordinates with the requesting party regarding the event.
Ambulance Crew – Prepares medical supplies and equipment needed.
Ambulance Driver – Familiarizes with the venue. Identify the nearest hospital and its route from
the area.