Description:
S-244 provides training for personnel who will serve as Field Observers (FOBS) on incidents. The course builds foundational knowledge in position duties, situational awareness, data collection, map reading, route planning, and communication within the incident management structure. Through lectures, group exercises, and simulations, students practice gathering and interpreting field information to support tactical decision-making.
Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
Describe the roles and responsibilities of a Field Observer.
Collect, interpret, and accurately report field data to inform operations.
Utilize maps, GPS, and other tools for navigation and situational assessment.
Develop and communicate effective route plans and briefings.
Demonstrate appropriate leadership, communication, and risk-management practices in operational environments.
Apply information gathered to support incident strategy and resource movement.
Prerequisite:
Ability to use a map, compass, and a smartphone or GPS receiver.
Basic Land Navigation Course and S-290 are required to open the Field Observer Position Task Book, but are not required to attend the Field Observer course. Priority registration will be given to individuals who have completed these courses. Enrollment in the OCFA courses for S-290 and Map, Compass, and GPS for Firefighters will also be accepted.
Staffing:
No backfill, holdover, or overtime is authorized.
DRESS CODE:
Station uniform, staff uniform, or business casual. No T-shirts, shorts, or sandals.
Instructor:
FC Daniel Moore
DISCLAIMER:
After submitting your registration, you will be placed on a waiting list while we review all attendees. Once your registration is approved, you will receive a confirmation email with relevant course information.
If a student is accepted into the class but becomes unable to attend, it is expected that they provide prompt advance notice of the cancellation, thereby allowing others the opportunity to participate. Failure to provide appropriate notification will result in the issuance of a "No Call/No Show Report" to the Training Chief of their respective agency. This information will be diligently monitored to assess attendance for future class offerings.
CLICK BELOW TO:
Direct questions to: trainingcenter@ocfa.org.