In which scenario would a Personnel Accountability Report (PAR) be requested?

A Personnel Accountability Report (PAR) is a critical process used by fire departments to ensure the safety and accountability of all personnel operating at an incident scene, especially during high-pressure situations. In scenarios where there is a rapid change to defensive tactics, it is essential to assess and confirm the status and location of each firefighter involved.

When strategies change quickly, such as moving from an offensive to a defensive mode to protect life and property, a PAR ensures that every member is accounted for and that no one has been left in potentially hazardous conditions. This report acts as a safety net, confirming that all personnel are safe, which is especially crucial when the situation evolves rapidly and could impact overall operations.

In contrast, conducting a PAR after a fire has been extinguished or during routine drills does not typically arise from urgent tactical changes. Similarly, while a new incident might require accountability checks, it is the moment of tactical change that necessitates a PAR to ensure all team members are prepared for the evolving dangers present in the situation.