A PAR is a:

A Personnel Accountability Report is a critical component in fire service operations, especially during emergency response scenarios. This report serves as a systematic method to account for all personnel operating at an incident scene. The importance of a PAR lies in its ability to ensure that all firefighters are present and accounted for, which enhances safety and operational accountability.

In the chaotic environment of an emergency response, maintaining a clear understanding of who is on the scene and who may still be inside a structure is vital. The PAR is typically conducted at specific intervals or after significant milestones during an incident, such as when a fire progresses to a certain point or when a mayday situation is declared. This process allows command to assess the resources effectively and take immediate action if personnel are missing or in a dangerous situation, ensuring the safety of all team members.

This accountability is especially crucial given the inherent risks of firefighting, as it provides a structured approach to protecting personnel and ensuring an organized response. The use of a Personnel Accountability Report is standard in many fire departments and is a part of best practices in emergency management.