This specialized technology encompasses applications designed to aid fire departments in creating, storing, and accessing critical information about buildings and locations within their jurisdiction. For example, these tools allow firefighters to virtually tour a building before arriving on scene, identify potential hazards, and determine optimal access points.
Effective incident response hinges on having readily available, accurate data. These resources enhance situational awareness, improve safety for both firefighters and civilians, and streamline operations during emergencies. Historically, this type of preparation relied heavily on paper-based systems, but digital solutions offer significant advantages in terms of accessibility, update frequency, and analytical capabilities.
The remainder of this article will delve into specific features, implementation considerations, and the overall impact of employing such systems within modern fire service operations. It will also explore how these tools contribute to a more proactive and data-driven approach to community risk reduction.
1. Data Accuracy
The effectiveness of any incident response strategy hinges on the bedrock of reliable information. In the context of fire emergencies, this reliability is synonymous with data accuracy within the pre-planning software. Consider a scenario: firefighters responding to a reported structure fire at a chemical storage facility. The pre-plan, generated from this software, indicates the presence of highly reactive materials stored in specific zones. If the data is inaccurate, reflecting outdated storage locations or missing newly introduced chemicals, the consequences are dire. Firefighters, operating under the assumption of the pre-plan’s veracity, could employ suppression tactics that exacerbate the situation, leading to explosions or the release of toxic fumes. This scenario, sadly, isn’t hypothetical. It underscores the criticality of ensuring that the data within these systems is consistently validated and meticulously updated.
The integration of regular inspection protocols becomes paramount. Fire departments must implement a system that mandates routine verification of the information contained within the pre-plans. This includes physical inspections of commercial and industrial buildings, cross-referencing the software’s data against actual on-site conditions, and establishing channels for business owners to report changes promptly. The human element remains vital; software alone cannot guarantee accuracy. Furthermore, the data must be clear and unambiguous. Vague descriptions or imprecise location markers can lead to misinterpretations during the chaotic environment of a fire scene. Standardized terminology and clear visual representations, such as detailed floor plans and hazard symbols, are essential to mitigating the risk of miscommunication and error.
Ultimately, the value of fire department pre-planning software is inextricably linked to the integrity of the data it contains. Maintaining this accuracy requires a commitment to continuous verification, diligent oversight, and a recognition that the lives and safety of both firefighters and the public depend on the reliability of the information at their fingertips. The investment in robust data management practices is not merely a procedural formality; it is a moral imperative.
2. Accessibility
In the crucible of a fire emergency, seconds can mean the difference between life and death. Within the realm of fire department pre-planning software, accessibility transcends mere convenience; it becomes a critical determinant of operational success. Consider the veteran captain, nearing retirement, responding to a late-night blaze at a sprawling warehouse complex. His experience is vast, but his memory, like all human faculties, has its limits. The information he needs, the location of the sprinkler control valves, the presence of hazardous materials, the building’s structural vulnerabilities all of it must be instantly available, irrespective of location or prevailing conditions.
-
Mobile Device Compatibility
Imagine the captain arriving on scene, thick smoke obscuring the warehouse’s entrance. Instead of fumbling with paper plans, prone to tearing and illegibility in the dim light, he pulls out his department-issued tablet. The pre-planning software, optimized for mobile use, loads instantly. A detailed floor plan appears, pinpointing the location of those critical sprinkler valves. This accessibility, facilitated by mobile technology, grants him a decisive advantage, enabling a swift and targeted response. Without it, precious moments would be lost, searching, guessing, and potentially facing catastrophic consequences.
-
Offline Functionality
The warehouse lies on the fringes of the city, where cellular connectivity is tenuous at best. A reliance solely on cloud-based data would render the pre-planning software useless the moment the signal drops. The software’s designers, however, anticipated this eventuality. Offline functionality allows the captain to access the pre-downloaded data, ensuring that vital information remains available even in the absence of an internet connection. This resilience is not merely a technological feature; it’s a safeguard against the unpredictable nature of emergency response, a guarantee that critical knowledge will be available regardless of external circumstances.
-
User-Friendly Interface
The lieutenant, fresh out of the academy, is technologically adept but lacks the captain’s years of hard-earned experience. The pre-planning software’s user interface must be intuitive and easily navigable, even under the intense pressure of a fire scene. A cluttered, complex design would only serve to confuse and delay, negating the benefits of readily available data. A clean, streamlined interface, employing clear visuals and logical organization, empowers both the seasoned veteran and the rookie to quickly access and interpret critical information. This ease of use transforms the software from a potential obstacle into a valuable asset, ensuring that all members of the fire team can effectively leverage its capabilities.
-
Role-Based Access Control
Not all information is relevant to every firefighter. The battalion chief, overseeing multiple incidents, requires a broad overview of the situation, while the engine company inside the burning building needs granular detail about specific hazards. Role-based access control ensures that each firefighter receives only the information pertinent to their responsibilities, minimizing information overload and maximizing focus. This targeted approach prevents crucial details from being lost in a sea of irrelevant data, allowing each member of the team to concentrate on their assigned tasks with clarity and precision.
Accessibility, therefore, is not simply about providing access to data; it’s about ensuring that the right information is available to the right people, at the right time, in the right format. It’s about empowering firefighters with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions under immense pressure, ultimately leading to safer and more effective incident response. The value of fire department pre-planning software is inextricably linked to its accessibility, transforming it from a static database into a dynamic tool that saves lives.
3. Real-time Updates
The old warehouse stood silent, a labyrinth of aging brick and timber. For years, its pre-plan, diligently crafted and stored in the fire department’s system, depicted a space filled with inert storage. But progress, with its incessant march, had other plans. A new tenant, a plastics manufacturer, moved in, bringing with them a host of volatile chemicals and a radically altered internal layout. The fire department, however, remained blissfully unaware. Their pre-plan, a snapshot frozen in time, offered a comforting illusion of preparedness, masking a potentially deadly ignorance.
Then, the call came. A fire, sparked by faulty wiring, ripped through the warehouse. Firefighters, relying on the outdated pre-plan, charged into a building vastly different from the one they expected. They found themselves not amidst inert storage, but surrounded by stacks of flammable materials, a tinderbox waiting to explode. The sprinkler system, located according to the old plans, was inaccessible, blocked by newly erected partitions. Confusion reigned, and the fire, fueled by the unexpected abundance of combustibles, quickly spiraled out of control. The consequences were severe: injuries to firefighters, significant property damage, and a stark realization that static data is a liability in a dynamic world. This event underscored a fundamental truth: the value of incident preparation diminishes rapidly without the lifeblood of real-time updates.
Real-time updates transform incident pre-planning from a reactive exercise into a proactive strategy. They ensure that the information available to firefighters is not a historical artifact, but a living document reflecting the current reality. This necessitates a commitment to continuous data validation, integrating systems for automated alerts when changes occur, and establishing clear communication channels with building owners and occupants. Only then can fire departments truly leverage the power of digital pre-planning tools, turning them into instruments of safety rather than sources of potential danger. The lesson learned from the old warehouse fire was clear: in the ever-evolving landscape of urban environments, preparedness demands vigilance, and vigilance requires updates in real-time.
4. Collaboration
Effective incident preparation is rarely a solitary endeavor. The strength of fire department pre-planning software lies not only in its technical capabilities but also in its capacity to foster seamless interaction among diverse stakeholders. The ability to share, review, and refine information collectively is paramount to creating robust and reliable pre-incident plans.
-
Inter-Departmental Coordination
A large-scale industrial complex straddled two fire protection districts, presenting a jurisdictional challenge. Historically, each department maintained separate pre-plans, leading to confusion and duplicated effort. The implementation of a shared incident preparation platform, accessible to both departments, fostered a unified approach. Joint inspections, collaborative plan development, and synchronized training exercises became the norm, ensuring a coordinated response in the event of an emergency. This eliminated conflicting strategies and streamlined communication, improving the overall effectiveness of both departments.
-
Stakeholder Engagement
The blueprints of a newly constructed high-rise building were meticulously detailed, yet lacked crucial insights into the building’s operational nuances. The fire department, utilizing its pre-planning software, initiated a collaborative workflow with the building’s architects, engineers, and property managers. This allowed for the incorporation of real-world considerations, such as the location of critical equipment, emergency contact information, and evacuation procedures, directly into the pre-plan. The result was a far more comprehensive and actionable plan, reflecting the combined expertise of all relevant parties.
-
Data Standardization and Interoperability
In the aftermath of a devastating earthquake, mutual aid resources poured in from across the state, each utilizing different incident preparation systems. The lack of interoperability hindered the ability to effectively share critical building information, delaying response times and complicating rescue efforts. This highlighted the importance of data standardization. Fire departments are now adopting standardized data formats and communication protocols within their software, enabling seamless exchange of information with external agencies, regardless of their preferred platform. This facilitates a unified command structure and enhances situational awareness during large-scale emergencies.
-
Real-time Communication and Feedback
During a routine training exercise at a local shopping mall, firefighters discovered a previously undocumented fire suppression system within a new expansion. Using the collaborative features of their incident preparation software, they immediately updated the building’s pre-plan, incorporating detailed information and photographs of the new system. This update was instantly accessible to all members of the department, ensuring that future responders would be aware of this critical resource. The real-time nature of the communication loop enabled continuous improvement of the pre-plan, reflecting the ever-changing conditions within the community.
These examples underscore the transformative power of collaboration in the context of fire department pre-planning software. It is through the collective efforts of fire departments, building owners, architects, and other stakeholders that these digital tools truly realize their potential, empowering responders with the knowledge and coordination necessary to mitigate risks and protect lives.
5. Hazard Identification
The alarm blared, summoning Engine 32 to a seemingly routine structure fire at a downtown dry cleaner. The initial report suggested a minor electrical malfunction. The crew, relying on their department’s incident preparation system, quickly reviewed the building’s pre-plan en route. The screen illuminated a list of potential hazards: flammable solvents, pressurized tanks, and intricate ventilation systems. This digital foresight, a direct result of diligent identification and input into the incident preparation tool, transformed a potentially disastrous situation into a manageable incident.
Without accurate hazard identification within the pre-plan, the firefighters would have entered the building blindly, unaware of the volatile chemicals lurking behind seemingly innocuous storefront displays. They might have employed suppression tactics that exacerbated the fire, triggering explosions or releasing toxic fumes into the neighborhood. Instead, armed with knowledge gleaned from the incident preparation software, they approached the scene with caution, employing specialized foam to contain the blaze and safely venting the hazardous materials. The pre-planned strategy, driven by accurate hazard identification, prevented a minor electrical fire from escalating into a large-scale environmental disaster.
This scenario underscores the indispensable connection between hazard identification and effective incident response. Incident preparation tools, without thorough and up-to-date hazard information, become mere digital facades, offering a false sense of security. The value of these systems lies in their ability to empower first responders with critical knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions under immense pressure, ultimately saving lives and protecting property. The incident at the dry cleaner serves as a reminder that meticulous hazard identification is not merely a checkbox on a pre-plan; it is the cornerstone of responsible and effective fire service operations.
6. Visualizations
The sprawling textile mill loomed against the twilight sky, a silent sentinel guarding years of industrial history. Within its aged brick walls lay a complex network of machinery, storage areas, and hidden passages, a veritable labyrinth unknown to those outside its daily operations. Firefighters, tasked with safeguarding this imposing structure, turned to incident preparation software as their guide. However, raw data and textual descriptions alone proved insufficient to truly understand the mill’s intricate layout. The turning point came with the integration of visual elements – detailed floor plans, 3D models, and aerial imagery meticulously layered within the incident preparation system.
These visualizations transformed the abstract information into a tangible reality. Firefighters could now virtually walk the mill’s corridors, identify potential access points, and locate critical infrastructure like sprinkler systems and standpipes, all before setting foot on the property. The impact during a real emergency was undeniable. When a fire erupted in the mill’s boiler room, the first-arriving engine company utilized the pre-planned visualizations to quickly navigate through the smoke-filled structure, bypass obstructed pathways, and directly target the source of the blaze. Their familiarity with the building’s layout, gained through virtual exploration, shaved precious minutes off their response time, preventing the fire from spreading to adjacent areas and minimizing damage.
The textile mill incident underscored the vital role of visual elements in incident preparation tools. These tools are not merely databases; they are dynamic visual platforms that empower firefighters with the spatial awareness necessary to make critical decisions under pressure. Effective visualizations not only enhance comprehension of building layouts but also facilitate hazard identification, improve communication, and ultimately contribute to safer and more effective incident response. In the complex and ever-changing urban landscape, the ability to “see” a building before entering it can be the difference between a successful operation and a tragic outcome.
7. Compliance
The municipality of Oakhaven prided itself on its state-of-the-art fire department. Its commitment to technological advancement led to the adoption of a cutting-edge incident preparation system. However, a critical oversight threatened to undermine the entire operation. The software, while boasting advanced features, lacked the ability to ensure adherence to evolving local and national regulations regarding fire safety and hazardous material storage. This deficiency, initially perceived as a minor inconvenience, soon manifested as a significant liability.
A routine inspection of a newly constructed chemical plant revealed a discrepancy between the pre-plan stored in the system and the actual layout of the facility. The software, lacking built-in compliance checks, failed to flag the deviations from approved building codes and safety standards. This oversight led to a dangerous situation during a subsequent chemical leak. Firefighters, relying on the inaccurate pre-plan, were initially unaware of the changes in the plant’s ventilation system, resulting in prolonged exposure to hazardous fumes. The incident triggered a formal inquiry, highlighting the critical need for incident preparation systems to incorporate robust compliance mechanisms.
The Oakhaven incident served as a wake-up call for fire departments nationwide. Incident preparation software, to be truly effective, must not only provide accurate and accessible data but also ensure strict adherence to regulatory requirements. This necessitates integrating compliance checks directly into the software, automating updates based on changing regulations, and providing clear alerts when deviations are detected. The value of incident preparation lies not simply in its technological prowess but in its ability to guide firefighters towards compliant and safe operational practices, ultimately safeguarding lives and property within the community.
8. Integration
The true potential of incident preparation software for fire departments is unlocked not in isolation, but through harmonious interlinking with existing technologies and established workflows. It is the seamless weaving together of disparate systems that transforms incident preparation from a siloed function into a dynamic and responsive element of emergency response.
-
CAD (Computer-Aided Dispatch) Integration
The 911 call crackled over the radio, dispatching Engine 17 to a reported structure fire. Simultaneously, the incident preparation software, linked directly to the CAD system, automatically populated the responding unit’s mobile data terminals with critical building information. Floor plans, hazard details, and contact information appeared instantly, eliminating the need for manual searches and ensuring that firefighters arrived on scene with immediate situational awareness. This synergy between dispatch and preparation tools shaved precious seconds off response times, directly impacting the outcome of the incident.
-
GIS (Geographic Information System) Integration
A brush fire raged on the outskirts of the city, threatening a sprawling residential development. The incident commander, utilizing the incident preparation system’s GIS integration, overlaid real-time weather data, topographical maps, and hydrant locations onto the pre-planned maps of the area. This comprehensive visualization allowed for strategic resource allocation, identification of evacuation routes, and proactive deployment of water tankers, preventing the fire from engulfing the community. GIS integration transformed the incident preparation software into a powerful decision-making tool, enabling responders to anticipate and mitigate the fire’s spread.
-
Building Information Modeling (BIM) Integration
The construction of a new hospital complex presented a unique challenge for the local fire department. The intricate network of HVAC systems, fire suppression equipment, and patient care areas demanded a level of detail that traditional pre-plans could not provide. By integrating BIM data directly into the incident preparation system, firefighters gained access to a virtual replica of the building, allowing them to explore its inner workings, identify potential hazards, and develop tailored response strategies. This integration bridged the gap between design and reality, empowering firefighters with the knowledge necessary to navigate and manage complex emergencies within the hospital environment.
-
Personnel Management System Integration
A hazmat incident at a chemical plant required the immediate deployment of specially trained personnel. The incident commander, leveraging the integration between the incident preparation software and the department’s personnel management system, quickly identified and mobilized firefighters with the necessary certifications and expertise. The system cross-referenced personnel records, training schedules, and availability, ensuring that the right resources were deployed to the scene without delay. This integration optimized resource allocation and improved the overall effectiveness of the hazmat response.
These examples illustrate the transformative power of integration in the realm of fire department incident preparation software. By seamlessly connecting disparate systems, these tools become more than just repositories of data; they become dynamic platforms that empower firefighters with the information, coordination, and resources necessary to effectively manage a wide range of emergencies. The value lies not just in the individual components, but in the synergistic whole.
9. Security
The fire department of a bustling metropolis, responsible for safeguarding millions, invested heavily in a sophisticated incident preparation system. This digital repository housed sensitive blueprints of critical infrastructure, hazardous material inventories, and evacuation plans the very blueprint for resilience. However, a shadow of complacency crept in. Security protocols, though initially stringent, were gradually relaxed. A disgruntled former IT employee, armed with inside knowledge and a lingering grudge, exploited a vulnerability in the system’s outdated firewall. He gained unauthorized access, not to sabotage, but to quietly exfiltrate the data, selling it to a shadowy organization with unknown motives. This breach exposed the city to unimaginable risk.
The consequences were far-reaching. Armed with detailed layouts of power plants, transportation hubs, and emergency response facilities, malicious actors could potentially cripple essential services, exploit vulnerabilities during emergencies, or even launch coordinated attacks. The fire department, once a symbol of security, had inadvertently become a source of vulnerability. This incident underscores a stark reality: incident preparation software, regardless of its advanced features, is only as secure as the measures protecting it. Robust firewalls, multi-factor authentication, regular security audits, and employee training are not merely optional extras; they are the fundamental bulwarks against potential catastrophe. Furthermore, data encryption, both in transit and at rest, is paramount to safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access, even in the event of a breach. These measures are not merely technical; they are ethical obligations to the communities served.
The story of Oakhaven stands as a cautionary tale, illustrating the inextricable link between security and the efficacy of fire department incident preparation software. The most detailed plans and advanced technologies are rendered worthless if compromised by negligence or malicious intent. Maintaining a vigilant security posture is not a one-time investment; it is an ongoing commitment, requiring constant adaptation to evolving threats and unwavering dedication to protecting the vital information that safeguards lives and property.
Frequently Asked Questions
The implementation of new technology within any organization invariably raises questions. Here, fundamental concerns surrounding fire department pre-planning software are addressed with directness and clarity.
Question 1: How susceptible are such systems to cyberattacks, and what measures mitigate that risk?
The specter of cybercrime looms large in the digital age. Incident preparation systems, containing sensitive building data and operational strategies, become prime targets for malicious actors. Mitigation requires a multi-layered approach: robust firewalls, intrusion detection systems, regular security audits, and vigilant monitoring. Employee training on cybersecurity best practices is equally crucial. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link; human error can circumvent the most sophisticated technical safeguards.
Question 2: What are the long-term costs associated with maintaining and updating this type of software?
The initial investment in incident preparation software is but a fraction of the total cost of ownership. Ongoing expenses include software licenses, data storage, hardware maintenance, and personnel training. Furthermore, the system must be regularly updated to reflect changes in building layouts, hazardous material inventories, and regulatory requirements. Neglecting these updates renders the system obsolete and potentially dangerous. Budgetary foresight and a commitment to continuous improvement are essential.
Question 3: How can a fire department ensure data accuracy and prevent the spread of misinformation through the system?
Garbage in, garbage out. The adage holds particularly true for incident preparation software. Data accuracy is paramount. Establishing rigorous data entry protocols, conducting regular site inspections, and implementing a system for verifying information from building owners are crucial. Equally important is the ability to track changes and audit data entries, ensuring accountability and preventing the proliferation of errors. A culture of data integrity must be fostered within the department.
Question 4: What level of technical expertise is required to effectively utilize this software, and how can adequate training be provided to all personnel?
The complexity of incident preparation software can be daunting, particularly for those unfamiliar with digital technology. Adequate training is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Comprehensive training programs, tailored to different skill levels, should be provided to all personnel. Furthermore, ongoing support and technical assistance must be readily available. A user-friendly interface and intuitive design can significantly reduce the learning curve, but a sustained commitment to training is indispensable.
Question 5: How does this software address the challenges of interoperability with other emergency response agencies and systems?
During large-scale incidents, effective coordination between multiple agencies is paramount. A lack of interoperability between different incident preparation systems can lead to confusion, delays, and potentially disastrous consequences. Adopting standardized data formats and communication protocols is crucial for facilitating seamless information sharing. Collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions and participation in regional interoperability initiatives are equally important. A unified response requires a unified information platform.
Question 6: What legal liabilities arise from relying on potentially inaccurate or outdated information within the software?
The reliance on inaccurate or outdated information within incident preparation software can expose a fire department to significant legal liabilities. In the event of an incident resulting in injury or property damage, the department may be held accountable for negligence if it can be demonstrated that the system’s deficiencies contributed to the outcome. Establishing clear lines of responsibility, implementing rigorous data validation procedures, and maintaining a robust audit trail are essential for mitigating this risk. Legal counsel should be consulted to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
In conclusion, the effective implementation of fire department incident preparation software requires careful consideration of these fundamental questions. A proactive approach to addressing these concerns will ensure that the technology serves as a valuable asset, enhancing safety and improving operational effectiveness.
The subsequent section delves into specific case studies, illustrating the real-world impact of these systems in diverse emergency scenarios.
Essential Strategies for Maximizing Incident Preparation Software
The implementation of these tools represents a significant investment in community safety. To fully realize their potential, careful consideration must be given to optimizing their use. These strategies are not mere suggestions; they are lessons gleaned from hard-won experience on the fire ground.
Tip 1: Prioritize High-Risk Occupancies: Not all buildings are created equal. Focus initial efforts on pre-planning structures that pose the greatest threat to life and property: schools, hospitals, high-rise buildings, and those housing hazardous materials. These locations demand the most detailed and readily accessible plans.
Tip 2: Embrace Multi-Media Integration: Beyond floor plans, incorporate photographs, videos, and 3D models. A picture is worth a thousand words, especially when time is critical. A short video walkthrough can provide invaluable context that blueprints alone cannot convey.
Tip 3: Conduct Regular Field Verification Exercises: Software is only as good as the data it contains. Schedule routine site visits to validate the accuracy of pre-plans. Involve all personnel in these exercises to foster familiarity with the system and the buildings within their jurisdiction.
Tip 4: Establish a Clear Chain of Custody for Data Updates: Designate specific individuals responsible for maintaining and updating pre-plans. This ensures accountability and prevents unauthorized modifications. A well-defined workflow streamlines the process and minimizes the risk of errors.
Tip 5: Leverage Community Partnerships: Building owners and managers are valuable sources of information. Engage them in the pre-planning process, soliciting their input and expertise. Foster a collaborative relationship to ensure that pre-plans remain current and accurate.
Tip 6: Simulate Incident Scenarios in Training: The software should be a core component of ongoing training exercises. Create realistic scenarios that force firefighters to utilize the system under pressure. This reinforces their familiarity with its features and improves their ability to access critical information during real emergencies.
Tip 7: Maintain Consistent Backup and Recovery Procedures: A catastrophic system failure can render incident preparation useless. Implement robust backup and recovery procedures to ensure that data can be quickly restored in the event of a hardware malfunction, cyberattack, or natural disaster.
Tip 8: Regularly Review and Refine Protocols: The field of emergency response is constantly evolving. Periodically review incident preparation protocols and make adjustments as needed. Stay abreast of new technologies and best practices to ensure that the system remains effective and relevant.
These strategies, diligently implemented, will transform incident preparation software from a mere tool into a powerful force multiplier, empowering firefighters with the knowledge and resources necessary to protect their communities. Their efficacy has been proved in the field repeatedly, but only through diligent, sustained application can they become truly effective.
With a focus on proactive implementation and continuous refinement, fire departments can harness the full potential of incident preparation software to enhance safety, improve operational efficiency, and mitigate risks in an increasingly complex and challenging world.
Conclusion
This article has explored the multifaceted nature of fire department pre-planning software, from its core functionalities and essential components to the critical considerations of data security, integration, and continuous improvement. It has emphasized that the true value of this technology lies not merely in its features, but in its ability to empower firefighters with the knowledge and coordination necessary to effectively manage emergencies and protect lives. Through careful implementation, diligent maintenance, and a commitment to ongoing training, fire departments can harness the full potential of these digital tools.
The embers of a recent warehouse fire still smolder in the memory of many within the fire service. A pre-plan was in place, but it was static, outdated, a relic of a bygone era. The consequences were injuries, property loss, and a painful lesson learned. Let this serve as a constant reminder: the investment in fire department pre-planning software is not merely a budgetary line item; it is an investment in preparedness, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to safeguarding the communities entrusted to the care of the fire service. The future of emergency response depends on it.
