Fire 1 Comprehensive Study Guide
Fire hydrants should not be space more than how many far apart in high value districts?
300 feet (100m), basically a hydrant at every other intersection so you are only a block away from a hydrant
Additional intermediate hydrants may be required where distances between intersections exceed?
350 - 400 ft
minimum number of personnel necessary for haz mat hot zone?
4
advantages of using forced ventilation in fires:
- speeds removal of contaminants - reduces smoke damage - promotes good public relations
advantages of using forced ventilation in fires:
- supplements & enhances natural ventilation - ensures more control of air flow
Factors that affect fire development
- thermal properties of the enclosure - ambient conditions (win, temp, humidity)
observations upon arrival include?
- time of arrival & extent of fire - wind direction and velocity - door or windows locked or unlocked
observations en route include?
- time of day - weather & natural hazards - barriers - people leaving the scene
First arriving FFs should make mental notes of:
- vehicles & people present in the area - status of doors & windows - forced entry evidence (not by FF) - placement of room contents - unusual fire behavior indications
NFPA 1001 also requires knowledge of how to mark a defect hose and remove it from service
...
the horseshoe load does not work for LDH b/c the hose remaining in the bed tends to fall over as the hose pays off which causes entanglement
...
4 basic methods by which water tenders unload
1 Gravity dumping 2 Jet dumps that inc. flow rate 3 Apparatus-mounted pumps that off-load 4 Combination of these
What does a typical LDH manifold appliance consist of?
1 LDH inlet and 3 2.5-inch valve controlled male outlets
Because of potential for destruction in villages in Europe what was required in homes?
1 Ladder long enough to reach roof 2 Containers of water (earthen jars/wooden buckets)
3 steps for care of fiberglass handles
1 Wash handle with mild detergent, rinse, wipe dry 2 Check for damage or cracks 3 Check tightness of tool head
flashover does not occur in every compartment fire based on 2 interrelated factors
1) fuel must have sufficient heat energy to develop flashover conditions 2) must have sufficient ventilation
Hydrant - Class A, Green
1,000 - 1,499 gpm
Hydrant - Class AA, Light Blue
1,500 gpm or greater
What are the five classes of fire and what do they involve?
1-Class A-Fuels such as wood, paper, plastic, rubber and cloth. 2-Class B-Hydrocarbon and alcohol bases liquids and gases that will support combustion. 3-Class C-All fires involving energized electrical equipment. 4-Class D-Combustible metals such as magnesium, lithium, titanium, zirconium and potassium. 5-Class K-Unsaturated cooking oils in well insulated cooking appliances located in commercial kitchens.
commonly found sizes of air cylinders used in the fire service
30 min - 2,216 psi 30 min - 4,500 psi 45 min - 3,000 psi 45 min - 4,500 psi 60 min - 4,500 psi
Because the air cylinder must be strong enough to safely contain air pressure as high as how many psi, it constitutes the main weight of the breathing apparatus?
4,500 psi
JSLIST garments can be worn consecutively for how many days?
45
The SCBA low air alarm sounds when 25% of the cylinder air remains, which provides up to how many minutes of air supply?
5 minutes
Steel and aluminum cylinders should be tested every
5 years
Fire hose is most commonly cut and coupled into pieces of?
50 or 100 ft long for ease of handling and replacement, but longer pieces are available
most aerial ladders made in N. America range in length from?
50-100ft but some in Europe can reach 300 ft
Hydrant - Class B, Orange
500 - 999 gpm
What is the capacity per light on a bank of lights?
500 to 1500 watts
articulating aerial platforms made in N. America can range in length from?
55-85ft
where are the special hazards located in the NFPA 704 system?
6 o'clock
For every pound of meth produced...
6 pounds of haz mat waste is produced
Safety glasses and goggles protect against approximately what percent of all eye hazards?
85%
NFPA 1977 and NFPA 1500 require FFs to be equipped with?
A fire shelter (in crush-resistive case)
Fire Extinguisher
A portable fire fighting device designed to combat incipient fires.
AVL
Automatic Vehicle Locating, system increase the need for the dispatcher to be able to read and use maps. With this technology the location of a FD unit is displayed on a map as the vehicle moves along the streets. Does not reduce the need for maps, instead it increases it.
Suspected collapse
As you and crew exit the building command and any others in the building must be notified. AFter this no one save someone to place unmanned master stream devices
What should a nozzle be inspected for?
Ease of operationof nozzle parts. Clean and lubricate any moving parts that are sticking according to manufacturer.
what is the first resource a responder should turn to if they need to request outside assistance for a significant incident?
LERP (local emergency response plan)
Commerical Salvage
Stock should be piled on top of pallets be aware of paper and cardboard products becoming wet.
Best method for storing kernmantle rope and other life-safety rope
Storage bag
What is the simplest hose roll?
Straight roll
Alloy
Substance or mixture composed of two or more metals (or a metal and nonmetallic elements) fused together and dissolved into each other to enhance the properties or usefulness of the base metal.
Large burning Objects
Such as mattresses, stuffed furniture, should be placed outside for extinguishment.
overview
This chapter describes the procedures for receiving nonemergency telephone calls, receiving reports of emergencies and alerting FD. the last section describes the use of the incident report
Pendant
This is the most common type in existence today, extends down from the underside of the piping.
Carry used for moving victim from bed to gurney especially when in cramped quarters
Three-person lift/carry
Philosophy of Loss Control
To minimize damage and provide cuustomer service through effective mitigation and recovery efforts before, during and after an incident.
What are the tools on an automatic sprinkler kit used for?
To stop flow of water from an open sprinkler before it has had time to completely drain after system shutdown
Most Common and Dangerous Threat during Overhaul
Toxic Gases
APRs can only be used to protect against certain chemicals? True/False
True
Handheld Dry Chemical Extinguishers
Two types: Cartridge and stored pressure. Stored pressure has constant pressure of about 200 psi. Cartridge operated has no pressure until a plunger is pressed to release pressure. If using the cartridge type, do not place any portion of your body above the extinguisher in case the cap was not properly tightened.
which type of package are not authorized for domestic use but are authorized for international shipments of radioactive materials?
Type c
What is utilized at haz mat & terrorist incidents?
Unified command structure
Dry Chemical Extinguishers
Used for Class A, B and C fires or Class B and C. Types are 1-regular B:C rated and 2-multipurpose and A:B:C rated. Typically use Sodium Bicarbonate, Potassium Bicarbonate, Urea-Potassium Bicarbonate, Potassium Chloride or Monoammonium Phosphate. do not use with foam.
Dry Powder Extinguishers
Used for Class D fires only.
Wet Pipe System
Used in locations where the temps are not expected to go below 40F. Simplest type of fire sprinkler system and generally requires little maintenance. Water is under pressure at all times. This type of system is equipped usually with an alarm check valve. Newer ones may not, instead having a backflow prevention check valve and an electronic flow alarm
Fax Machines
Usually over the phone lines though radio is another possible medium
Salvage Cover Maintenance
Usually the only covers only require a rinsing followed by a light scrubbing. However if they very dirty then a light detergent may be used. Covers will rot if not properly cleaned after every use, and should be left out to dry preferably not in to the sun. Synthetic ones may be folded wet but this should be avoided to prevent mildew. After drying they should be checked for holes, marked and repaired accordingly.
Opening the roof or existing roof openings for purpose of allowing heated gases and smoke to escape to atmosphere
Vertical ventilation
Affect of fire on Mason
Very little efffect on Masonry walls even at high temperatures. Bricks rarely show any signs of loss of integrety or serious deterioration. Stones may spall or lose small portions of their surface when heated. Concrete may crack but will retain most of its strength. Mortar between the bricks may degraded and should be checked for signs of weakening.
What must a fire stream deliver to be effective?
Volume of water sufficient enough to absorb heat faster than it is being generated
What is a single word for consumer household products referring to moderate hazards?
WARNING
Who decides location, spacing an distribution of fire hydrants?
Water department personnel based on fire dept recommendations
Sudden increase in pressure if hydrant is closed or opened too fast
Water hammer
What is most often used in wildland fire fighting operations & is similar to the wye appliance?
Water thief appliances
Water's effect on wood strength during firefighting operations
Water used during extinguishment ops does not have a substantial effect on the structural strength of wood construction.
Hydrants usually installed in warmer climates where prolonged periods of subfreezing weather are uncommon (aka frost-free or California hydrants)
Wet-Barrel hydrants
Burned Combustible Roof or Cornice
When a fire has burned this it is advisable to open the cornice and inspect for hidden fires
Commercial Occupancies
When dealing with these we must be aware of how valuable accounting records are, and every effort must be made to save them
Halon Warning
When halon is used to extinguish a fire, it can decompose and liberate toxic components. Therefore, do not use these agents in unventilated, confined spaces. If firefighters must enter areas flooded with these agents, they must wear SCBA.
Steel behavior when exposed to heat
Will fail at around 1000 F Will elongate when heated, 50ft beam up to 4". This can push over load bearing walls
WHat to do with calls?
With many requests for assistance telecommunicators refer callers to other appropriate persons or agencies.
Wooden I-beams similar in construction to?
Wooden trusses
Part of rope used in forming the knot and tied to object being raised, lowered and stabilized (bitter end or loose end)
Working end
Any dust and dirt should be thoroughly brushed or swept from what type of hose?
Woven jacket hose, washed and scrubbed w/ clean water and a stiff brush if necessary
Hose appliance with one female inlet and two or more male outlets, usually smaller than the inlet. Outlets are also usually gated
Wye appliances
Which stream is one that has been broken into coarsely divided drops?
a broken stream
when a ventilation opening is made in the upper portion of a building it creates?
a chimney effect, drawing air currents from throughout the building in the direction of the opening
if asked, each FF should write?
a chronological account of important circumstances personally observed and this should take place asap while observations are still fresh
less heat is lost and more heat remains available to increase temp and speed the combustion reaction when?
a compartment is well insulated
in regard to hazard & risk assessment, it is?
a continuous and on-going process
to extinguish fires in transformers at ground level use?
a dry chemical or carbon dioxide extinguisher
if FF handle or procure evidence, they become what?
a link in the chain of custody for that evidence
When speaking over the radio use?
a moderate rate of speaking, not too fast or too slow, focused on clear understanding. this includes not using pauses or verbal fillers such as "ah" or "um" during the dispatch
use a moderate amount of expression radio speech, not?
a monotone and not overemphasized, with carefully placed emphasis
Chemical Pellet
a pellet of solder under compression within a small cylinder melts at a predetermined temperature allowing a plunger to move down and release the valve cap parts
What occurs when a substance remains chemically the same but changes in size, shape or appearance?
a physical change
When multiple alarms are struck for a single fire, maintaining communications w/ each unit becomes more difficult as radio traffic increases; to fix this...
a radio-equipped, mobile communications vehicle can be used at large fires thus reducing the load on the communications center
The first company to arrive at the scene of an emergency should use the radio to provide a description of the conditions found, this is known as?
a report on conditions or a situation report
when cutting a ventilation opening in a roof:
a square or rectangular opening is easier to cut and easier to repair after the fire
what can be used on the floor above the fire to locate the seat of the fire?
a thermal imaging camera or an infrared heat detector
When the flow of water through fire hose or pipe is suddenly stopped, such as by suddenly closing a nozzle, a shock wave is produced called?
a water hammer
what will be valuable if a FF must testify in court later?
a written account
Unexplained health problems such as salivation, lacrimation, urination, defecation, gastrointestinal upset, emesis, miosis are caused by what kind of attack?
chemical attack
water can extinguish fire in several ways, primarily by cooling which?
absorbs heat from a fire
which spill control tactic results in one material being retained in the other?
absorption
Radio Fire Alarm Box - Some systems include a small solar panel at each box for power, other feature a spring-wound alternator to provide power
activating the alarm alerts the telecommunicator by an audible signal, visual light indicator and a printed record indicating the location; some have a different colored light to indicate a test or tamper signal
Short term effects that appear within hours or days are?
acute
Is a fitting for connecting hose couplings with dissimilar threads and the same inside diameter?
adapter
firefighters must be knowledgeable in every aspect of respiratory protection use
adequate training in equipment use
which technical decon technique use another material to change the chemical structure of a haz mat?
chemical degradation
which of the following technical decon techniques involves a process in which a haz liquid interacts with the surface of a sorbent material?
adsorbent
suspended and upright fuels that are physically separated from the ground's surface so air can pass below?
aerial fuels - ie. leaves and needles on tree limbs, branches, hanging moss etc
when sizing up a building
age of the building construction materials roof type renovations dead loads
Which factor is not used to determine decon priority for ambulatory victims?
age of the victim
wearing some respiratory protection restricts firefighters' movements and can affect balance, good agility will minimize these effects.
agility
while not generally used for extinguishment in structure fires, limiting the fire's ___ _______ can be a highly effective fire control action?
air supply (ventilation)
A search warrant or written consent to search will be required to re-enter the premises once?
all fire personnel leave the scene
Nationally recognized labs
all parts and components of the sprinkler system should be listed by a nationally recognized testing lab such as Underwriters Labs Inc or FM Global.
removing the fuel source effectively extinguishes any fire; the simplest method of this is to?
allow a fire to burn until all fuel is consumed
Type II Strengths
almost as resistive to fire as type I confines the fire well almost as structurally stable as Type I easier to vertically ventilate than type I
Radio fire alarm boxes are self-contained units where?
along highways or streets
what can have an impact on the ignitability of many types of fuel but are less significant inside a structure?
ambient temp & humidity
What do you use in operations that require that water be distributed at various points along the main supply line?
an LDH water thief
More sophisticated filter masks have what?
an air purifying filter, canister or cartridge
A disadvantage of the horseshoe load occurs most often in wide hose beds - the hose sometimes comes out in a wavy, or snake like lay on the street.
another disadvantage is that folds for a shoulder carry cannot be pulled as easily as with an accordion load
where is ventilation needed?
answer requires knowledge of construction, features of the building, wind direction etc
what is the exception to needing 2 FFs to deploy master stream devices?
apparatus mounted deck guns need only 1 to deploy
Preaction Systems
are dry systems that employ a deluge type valve, fire detection devices and closed sprinklers. This type of system is used when it is especially important to prevent water damage even if the pipes are broken.
Deluge Systems
are similar to dry pipe systems in that there is no waterr in the distribution piping before system activation. they differ from in that the sprinklers have no fusible link and do not function as fire detection devices. All the sprinklers are open all the time. Normally installed in high hazard area.
Dewatering Devices
are used to remove water from basements, elevator shafts, and sumps. FD pumpers should not be used for this purpose because they intricate and expensive. Trash-type pumps are best suited
Control Valves
are used to turn off the water supply to the system in order to replace sprinklers, perform maintenance or interrupt operations. They are located between the source of the water supply and the sprinkler system, usually under the sprinkler alarm valve.
Radio Logs
are usually a chronological manual recording on paper of each and every activity that has been reported or dispatched over the radio, NO NAMES ARE TO BE USED!
what consists of a platform attached to the end of a hinged articulating boom?
articulating aerial platform
the compass direction a slope faces determines the effect of solar heating
aspect
the most common source of heat in combustion reactions is called?
chemical heat energy, oxidation almost always results in the production of heat
what is a required component of Level C ensembles?
chemical resistant inner gloves
Walk-ins
citizens sometimes walk into fire stations to report an emergency, it is very important to get their name, address and phone number, especially their cell number
which ensemble classification is intended for use in the presence of chemical nerve agents?
class 1
What ensemble classification is intended for use when victims are not ambulatory but are showing signs of exposure?
class 2
When it is necessary to transmit emergency traffic, the person transmitting the message should make the urgency clear! Then...
at that point, the telecommunicator should give an attention tone and advise all other units to stand by and advise caller to proceed with the emergency message; after complete all units resume normal or routine radio traffic
Delay overhaul operations until the origin and cause of the fire have been determined to?
avoid disturbing or destroying evidence
Essential to maintaining personal health as a FF
avoiding stress
when should the decon corridor be established?
b4 performing any work in the hot zone
instantaneous explosion of superheated gases that occurs when O2 is introduced into an O2 depleted confined space
back draft, this often happens when a horizontal opening provides the missing component (O2)
always walk on ______ ____ and strongest points of roof structure whenever possible
bearing walls
When should medical monitoring be conducted?
before
Petri dishes are indicative of what type of lab?
biological
what type of attack has no observable features?
biological
What type of monitoring detection device indicates the presence of biological agents and toxins by detecting the presence of specific antibodies?
biological immunoassay indicator
Sprinkler Temp ratings
black/uncoloured - ordinary - 135-170F White - intermediate - 175-225F Blue - High - 250-300F Red - Extra high - 325-375F Green - Very Extra High - 400-475F Orange - Ultra High - 500-575F Bad White Girls Rape Girls Often
you have spilled solids, so which spill control tactic would be most effective?
blanketing and covering
which lines don't provide the protection or rapid cooling needed to fight a vehicle fire?
booster lines; the attack line should be at least 1.5 inch
abandoned/renovated buildings
breached walls, missing doors means faster than normal fire growth
more adverse factors continued
breaking skylights, explosions, burn through of the roof, a floor or wall, additional openings between the attack team and the upper opening
who needs to restore the HVAC system after a fire?
building engineer or maintenance superintendent
If you're at an incident that involves a crime, what are you going to do?
call the po-po
to aggressively attack a fire from the exterior with a large diameter (2.5 inch) fire stream
called a Blitz Attack
if open areas around a smoke ejector aren't sealed, air can recirculate back into the bldg
called churning - prevented by covering open areas w/ salvage cover or other material
some solid fuels, particularly those that are porous and can char, can undergo oxidation at the surface of the fuel
called nonflaming or smoldering combustion
Donning SCBA from seat mount
can be done en route only if without unbuckling seatbelt
which ensemble class is intended for use when victims are impaired but ambulatory?
class 3
this uses the indirect attack first then the direct attack
combination attack - 1st cool gas layer, then reduce heat on burning materials
What are designed to operate at different pressures?
combination nozzles - most common is 100 psi
2 Major factors in the loss of live in fires
combustible furnishings and finishes.
an exothermic chemical reaction that is a self sustaining process of rapid oxidation of a fuel, that produces heat and light
combustion
Common identification for sprinklers
commonly identified by the temperature at which they are designed to operate
is defined as a fire that occurs within an enclosed room or space within a building
compartment fire
2 primary types of dangerous conditions that buildings may pose
conditions that contribute to the spread and intensity of the fire conditions that make the building Susceptible to collapse
physical flow or xfer of heat through direct contact
conduction
heat can be xfered by three mechanisms
conduction, convection, radiation
lightweight wooden trusses
constructed of 2x3, 2x4, or 2x6 and are connected by gusset plates(gang nails) which penetrate 3/8" into the wood.
Voice recorders run either?
continuously or intermittently (only when sound is transmitting)
the strategic goal of spill control involves?
controlling a hazardous product that has already been released from it's container
xfer of heat by movement of heated fluids or gases
convection
one of the most common methods of fire control and extinguishment is?
cooling with water; this reduces the temp of a fuel to a point where it does not produce vapor to burn
What type of haz mat is considered a class 8?
corrosive
when water is discharged at angles from the center line of the nozzle, the reaction forces may?
counterbalance each other and reduce the nozzle reaction
Indicators of building collapse
cracks or separation in walls, floors, etc evidence of structural instability such as tie rods. loose bricks blocks or stones deteriorated mortar between the masonry leaning walls structural members that appear to be distorted. fires beneath the floors that support heavy loads prolonged fire exposure to structural members creaks or cracking noises SM pulling away from the walls excessive weight of building contents
methods of fire streams in include:
creating a barrier between a fuel and a fire by covering the fuel with a foam blanket
methods of fire streams in include:
creating a water curtain to protect ff from heat
which spill control tactic is most likely used when protecting a sewer drain from a liquid haz mat?
damming, diking, diversion, retention
after evidence has been properly collected by an investigator, what can happen?
debris may be removed
Exposing fire hose to excessive heat or direct flame contact can char, melt or weaken the outer jacket and?
dehydrate the rubber lining
Specific gravity is a measurement of?
density
the FD has the authority to _____ to any building during fire fighting operations and for a reasonable length of time after the fire suppression is terminated?
deny access
the first thing that EMS responders must do upon arrival at an incident would be?
determining the type and scope of incident
Quick Response Mechanism
developed to enhance life safety. Offers increased surface area to collect the heat generated by a fire faster than the standard fusible link.
Drain pipe valve
device that keeps water out of the sprinkler piping until a fire actuates a sprinkler.
Type I weaknesses
difficult to breach difficult to ventilate massive debris floors, ceilings and walls retain heat.
which spill control tactic involves the application of water to a water soluble material to reduce the hazard?
dilution
attack method that involves the discharge of water or foam stream directly onto the burning fuel
direct attack
What does an asphyxiant do?
displaces oxygen
Automatic Number Identification (ANI)
displays the calling party's phone number on a screen at the telecommunicator's position; a feature of an enhanced 911 system
Oxygen in Air - 12%
dizziness, headache, rapid fatigue
be concise and to the point
do not talk around the issue, give the info required in a logical and complete manner that best addresses the service requested
are the vent group personnel sufficiently trained and equipped to ventilate this building under these circumstances?
do they have the required training and tools
PIVA
does not use a plate with words, instead using a circular disk inside a flat plate on top of the valve housing. When the valve is open the disk is perpendicular to the surrounding plate. Operated with a built in crank.
When laying hose:
drive the apparatus at a speed that allows the couplings to clear the tailboard as the hose leaves the bed, 5-10 mph
3 different types of sprinkler systems
dry pipe wet pipe preaction deluge residential
proper training enables FF to recognize and collect important info by observing the fire and it's behavior when?
during the response, upon arrival, when entering the structure and while locating and extinguishing the fire
Type V Strengths
easily breached resistant to collapse from earthquakes collapse debris is easy to manage
Restoring Property to Full Use
effective salvage procedures coordinated with a thorough and systematic overhaul will also facilitate prompt this
fire fighting ops must sometimes be carried out in locations that are below grade or otherwise w/o?
either natural or forced ventilation
can generate temps high enough to ignite any combustible materials near the heated area
electrical heat energy
what type of decon consists of removing contamination of individuals & potentially life threatening situations?
emergency decon
which type of decon is there no regard for the property or environment during the decon?
emergency decon
FF must be able to control the flow of electricity into structures where
emergency operations are being performed
Voice Recorders document what?
emergency telephone calls, radio traffic and dispatching info as well as providing an accurate account of operations
the ability to maintain control in claustrophobic and stressful environments will reduce the chances of serious mistakes being made
emotional stability
which chemical reaction in which a substance absorbs heat energy
endothermic heat reaction
some of the dangers involved when dealing w/ fires in occupancies w/ fixed fire extinguishing systems include?
energized electrical equipment
IAP (incident action plan) tracking & accountability system - which is not an element of this system?
evacuation procedures
WAter supply
every effort should be made to supply adequate to operating sprinkler system
which chemical reaction between two or more materials that changes the materials and produces heat, flames and toxic smoke
exothermic heat reaction
FF should refrain from doing what in regards to the probable cause?
expressing personal opinions to anyone, even to other FF, b/c the media may hear this and interpret it as fact and broadcast it which can be very embarrassing to the FD
deprive the combustion process of fuel, O2, or sufficient heat to sustain the reaction
extinguishing agents
which of the signal words are displayed on pesticide labels if the contents have a flash point under 80F
extremely flammable
the shape and contour of the face can affect the wearer's ability to get a good face piece to face seal
facial features
For atmospheres that contain normal levels of oxygen but are contaminated with airborne particulates such as a variety of dusts, what is available?
filter masks aka air purifying respirators
Roof coverings
final outside layer that is placed on top of a roof deck. Common roof coverings include wooden and composition shingles, wooden shakes etc.
what type of suit allows a person to work in a total flame environment for short periods of time?
fire entry suit
FF should NOT attempt to interrogate a potential arson suspect unless they are trained and authorized to do so, this is the job of a trained?
fire investigator
Whom of a fire prevention bureau may be responsible for conducting investigations beyond the determination of a fire origin and cause?
fire marshals, fire inspectors, or other members of the fire prevention bureau
The fire chief delegates their authority to ___ & ___ at the scene to determine the true and specific cause of the fire.
fire officers and firefighters
temp @ which a liquid fuel produces sufficient vapors to support combustion once ignited
fire point, usually a few degrees above the flash point
What are used to reduce the heat from a fire and provide protection to fire fighters and exposures?
fire streams
life safety hazards - the first consideration is the safety of?
firefighters and building occupants
Times when they are not effective
fires are too small to activate the system smoke generation reaches occupants before the system starts sleeping, drunk, handicapped persons occupy the building
Hardware accessories that are available for connecting hose of different diameters and thread types?
fittings
Oxidation involves fuel in the gas phase, this requires liquid or solid fuels to be converted to the gas phase or vaporized
flaming combustion
what is the most serious hazard associated with meth labs?
flammability
the range between the upper flammable limit and lower flammable limit in which a substance can be ignited
flammable range
min. temp @ which a liquid gives off enough vapors to form an ignitable mixture w/ air near the liquid's surface
flash point
rapid transition between the growth and the fully developed fire stages but is not a specific event such as ignition
flashover
which load is the easiest to load and is suitable for any size of supply hose and is the best way to load LDH?
flat load - hose loaded in this manner is less subject to wear from apparatus vibration during travel
leave charred documents that are?
found in containers such as wastebaskets, small file cabinets and binders that can be moved easily; also keep these items away from drafts
Types of Control Valves
four main types 1. OS & Y 2. Post Indicator 3. Wall Post Indicator 4. Post Indicator Valve Assembly
what can be defined as that part of total pressure that is lost while forcing water through pipes, fittings, fire hose and adapters?
friction loss - the friction slows the water flow and reduces its pressure
the 3 main influences on wildland fire behavior are:
fuel, weather, and topography; w/ weather being the most significant
this occurs when all combustible materials in the compartment are burning
fully developed stage
fuels such as methane, hydrogen, acetylene and others can be the most dangerous of all fuel types b/c they are ignition ready
gaseous fuels
as the fire moves thru the growth stage, pockets of flames may be observed moving the hot gas layer above the neutral plane
ghosting
the fire begins to influence the environment w/i the compartment as the fire transitions from incipient to the?
growth stage, the fire is influenced by the configuration of the compartment and the amt of ventilation
liquids have mass and volume but ?
have no definite shape except for a flat surface, liquids assume the shape of their container
Nonstandard
hay bales is an example, everything that doesnt fit into NFPA 220.
of a given fuel this is the total amount of energy released when a specific amt of that fuel is oxidized
heat of combustion, expressed in kilojoules/gram
is generated when a gas is compressed
heat of compression
the movement of two surfaces against each other creates?
heat of friction
is the energy released per unit of time as a given fuel burns
heat release rate (HRR), usually expressed in kilowatts (kW)
what can impede the natural movement of smoke?
high humidity & cold temps; but wind can be an extremely significant factor in fire development
Donut roll advantages
holding both couplings facilitates connecting to other couplings
PIV
hollow metal post that houses the valve stem. Attached to the valve stem is a movable plate with the words OPEN or SHUT visible through a small glass window on the side of the housing. When not in use the operating handle is locked to the valve housing.
States may request federal assistance to incidents through?
homeland security
if the standpipe connection is in an enclosed stairwell it is acceptable to?
hook up on the fire floor
what type of ventilation should be used?
horizontal (natural or mechanical) or vertical (natural or mechanical)
if the basement has ground-level windows or even below ground-level windows in wells...?
horizontal ventilation can be employed effectively
what is the venting of heat, smoke, and gases through horizontal opening such as windows and doors?
horizontal ventilation; ie. buildings in which the fire has not involved the attic area
use a fog pattern to cover 85-90% of a window to push smoke out
hydraulic ventilation - nozzle tip should be at least 2 ft back from the opening
liquids like gas, diesel and fuel oil do not mix with water
hydrocarbon fuels
an important element of size up is?
identifying hazards present
trusses
if one member fails the entire truss is likely to fail, no matter what kind of truss it is.
After pertinent info has been collected, units may be dispatched and?
if safe to do so, keep caller on the line to get their name, location, callback number and address (delays in starting the dispatch can increase response time)
When alerting 911 by a fire alarm telegraph box...
if safe, stay at the box until FFs arrive so you can direct them to the emergency
when to report unusual conditions
immediately and to your supervisor
protect completely or partially burned papers found in a furnace, stove or fireplace by?
immediately closing dampers and other openings
ventilation problems can be avoided by well trained FFs conducting a well coordinated attack, adverse factors include:
improper use of forced ventilation, in-discriminant window breaking, fire streams directed into ventilation openings
Structural Collapse
in almost every case this results from damage to structural system of the building caused by the fire or by fire fighting operations.
Where does overhaul begin
in the area of the most sever fire involvement and should begin as soon as possible after fire is declared under control
what is designed and used to start a fire and leave evidence of their existence?
incendiary devices
first stage of the burning process in a confined space in which the substance is being oxidized is producing some heat but hasn't spread to other substances?
incipient stage
Apply the hose clamp within 5 feet from the coupling on the?
incoming water side
Surfaces that reflect heat return it to the combustion reaction and?
increase its speed; mats such as masonry act as a heat sink and retain heat energy
when a fog stream is introduced thru a small opening & directed at the ceiling where heat is most intense
indirect attack
tank car markings can be used to get info from railroads, the computer or the shipper would be what?
initials and number
fuels such as hydrogen or magnesium that do not contain carbon are?
inorganic fuels
When mated, the lugs of each Storz coupling fit into the slots in the opposing coupling ring and then slide?
into locking position with a quarter turn
Fusible Link
involves a frame that is screwed into the sprinkler piping. Two levers press against the frame and a cap over the orifice from which the water flows. Fusible link holds the levers together until the link is melted by the heat of the fire. Deflector converts the standard 1/2" stream into water spray.
What type of monitoring detection device uses a radioactive source to ionize it's samples in order to determine it's spectrum?
ion mobility spectrometer
Called Party Hold
is a feature that allows a telecommunicator to maintain access to a caller's phone line as long as the telecommunicator doesn't hang up or get disconnected
Ringback
is a feature that allows the telecommunicator to call back a caller's phone after he or she has hung up
Making Hydrant connections with hard intake hose
is considerably more difficult than making connections with a soft intake hose and more people are involved so requires teamwork
Inspectors Test Valve
is located in a remote part of the sprinkler system. Equipped with the same size orifice as one sprinkler and is used to to stimulate the activation of one sprinkler. The water from the test valve normally discharges outside the building.
water absorbs significant heat as its temp is raised but it has it's greatest effect when?
it is vaporized into steam
any public statement regarding the fire cause should be made only after the investigator and ranking fire officer have agreed to?
its accuracy and validity and have given permission for it to be released
guidelines for electrical emergencies
jump clear of any apparatus (both feet together) that may be energized by contact w/ power lines
An important skill
keeping a positive attitude.
FF should protect any evidence they find by?
keeping it untouched and undisturbed until an investigator arrives
the energy possessed by a moving object
kinetic energy
Tactical channels are most often used for?
large incidents such as structure fires; not used for small routine incidents such as fire alarm investigations and vehicle fires
Energy is also required to change a substance from a liquid to a gas phase, this is called?
latent Heat of Vaporization
once in place, who should monitor the police line tape to make sure people do not cross it?
law enforcement personnel
when laying hose:
lay hose to one side of the roadway (not gutter) so that other apparatus are not forced to drive over it
Hydrant - Class C, Red
less than 500 gpm
the most serious of haz mat incidents is what level?
level 3
which EPA level ensemble includes a liquid splash protection suit that meets NFPA 1992?
level B
1st and highest priority in any emergency situation
life safety
Most common types of lightweight construction
lightweight steel and wooden trusses
2 of the most common types of lightweight construction
lightweight steel or wooden trusses
any of several petroleum products, such as propane or butane, stored under pressure as a liquid
liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)
discharges less than 40 gpm including those fed by booster lines
low volume stream
start power tools on the ground to ensure operation but make sure they are shut off before hoisting or carrying them to the roof
make sure that the angle of the cut is not toward the body
what will pressurize the bldg, intensify the fire and cause the fire to spread?
making an opening on the windward side of a burning bldg b4 creating a ventilation exit on leeward side
such remarks can also impede the efforts of an investigator to prove what?
malicious intent as the fire cause
the type of decon when removing haz mat from multiple people?
mass decon
when cutting a ventilation opening in a roof:
one large opening at least 4x4 ft is much better than several small ones
Heavy content fire
one of the most critical hazards in commercial and storage facilities becasue the fire can overwhelm the capabilities of a fire sprinkler system.
if a fire starts, FF should wait for the fire to burn away from the break a distance equal to?
one span before extinguishing the fire
Firefighters use which type of SCBA more often?
open circuit SCBA
install wooden wedges or sprinkler stops to halt the flow of water from?
open sprinklers
fuels that do contain carbon are?
organic fuels
OS & Y
outside stem and yoke valve, stem is visible beyond yoke when it is open.
b/c of the hazards of hot zones, the command post and staging area must be established where?
outside the hot zone
Capacity of a large dry-pipe system
over 500 gallons
once the fire has been controlled, ____ should be conducted to check for extension and hidden fires
overhaul
Chemical reaction involving combo of oxygen w/ other materials
oxidation
reducing the _____ available to the combustion process reduces a fire's growth and may totally extinguish it over time
oxygen
What are the four common respiratory hazards associated with fires and other emergencies?
oxygen deficiency elevated temperatures smoke toxic atmospheres (w/ & w/o fire)
Main drain Valve
part of every sprinkler system riser. the primary purpose of the main drain is to allow sprinkler service personnel to drain water from the system for maintenance purposes. Can also be used to check the system water supply.
Retardant chamber
part of the alarm check valve. This chamber catches excess water that may be sent through the alarm valve during momentary water pressure surges. Reduces chances of false activation
Sprinkler system may not function for the following reasons
partially or completely completely closed main water control valve Interruption to the water supply damaged or painted over sprinklers damaged pipes debris/sediment in the pipes failure of the secondary water supply tampering/vandalism sprinklers obstructed by objects stacked too close
mats that absorb heat but do not participate actively in the combustion reaction
passive agents, ie fuel moisture slows the absorption of heat energy and retards the process of ignition and combustion
the combination attack starts with short bursts of water called
penciling - from a penetrating fog stream directed into the hot gay layer at the ceiling level
the log should have the?
person's name, time of entry, time of departure and a description of any items the person took from the scene
Firefighters must be in sound physical condition in order to maximize the work that can be performed and to extend the air supply, this factor is?
physical condition
what are the two key factors influencing the combustion process?
physical state of the fuel and its distribution or orientation (horizontal or vertical)
there are two forms of ignition
piloted (external spark) and autoignition (specific required heat)
most FDs now use ____ without codes of any kind, especially those in the wildland fire community use ___?
plain english; clear text
liquids like alcohol will mix readily with water
polar solvents
the roof team should be in constant communication with their supervisor via?
portable radios
Heat is a form of energy and exists in two states:
potential and kinetic
stored energy possessed by an object that can be released in the future to perform work
potential energy
when a bldg becomes damaged & power is interrupted or electrical hazards are created...
power should be turned of at the main panel, preferably by a power utility employee
is the actual and potential ventilation of a structure based on structural openings, construction type, and building ventilation systems
preexisting ventilation
Situations that sprinklers are effective in
preventing fire spread upwards in multistory buildings protecting the lives of occupants
during which stage is a formal plan of action decided upon?
processing stage
Most effective defense against heavy content fires
proper inspection and code enforcement prior to the incident is the most effective defense.
Two Aspects of Loss Control and Most effective
proper salvage and overhaul.
Large open spaces
proper vertical ventilation is essential to slowing the spread of the fire.
partial sprinkler system
protects only certain areas or places designated by code
Complete Sprinkler system
protects the entire structure
what is a high temperature protective clothing?
proximity suit
Radios
purpose of FD radio comms is to provide a means by which all elements of the organization can communicate with each other. Telecom centres are equipped with powerful base radios. We do NOT use slang over the radio.
the chemical decomposition of a substance through the action of heat
pyrolysis, in solid fuels and vaporization of liquid fuels releasing ignitable vapors or gases
xfer of heat through space by electromagnetic waves such as IR thermal waves, radio waves or x-rays
radiation, also a significant factor in fire development and spread in compartments
at a minimum, along with chemicals, what other agent should be tested for at explosive incidents?
radio-logical
material that is hot or seems to emit heat without signs of an external heat source is an indicator of what kind of attack?
radio-logical
The JSLIST of protective overgarments provides protection against?
radioactive alpha and beta particles
CAD can also do what?
reduce the amount of radio traffic between telecommunicators and responding units
Reinforced Concrete
reinforced concrete performs well under fire conditions it can lose strength through spalling. Prolonged heating can cause failure of the bond between the concrete and he steel reinforcement. NEed to look for cracks and spalling.
Earliest fire regulations
related to combustible roof coverings
FF should enter dangerous situations only when/
rescue operations requires it; a rapid intervention team is also required in these situations
when electric current flows through a conductor, heat is produced
resistance heating
Type IV Strengths
resists collapse due to flames structurally stable easy ventilation vertically and horizontally easy to breach manageable debris
Type I strengths
resists direct flame confines fire well little collapse potential impervious to water damage
Type III Strengths
resists fire spread from the outside relatively easy to ventilate
good cardiovascular conditioning is needed to prevent heart attacks, strokes, or other related problems during strenuous activity
respiratory functioning
what is an example of a biological agent?
rickets
After adequate brushing, washing an dried, hose should be?
rolled and stored in suitable racks or apparatus
relatively small interior fires are called?
room-and-contents fire
one of the 1st actions FFs should take is to establish a?
safe working zone by following US DOT guidelines for protecting the scene from vehicular traffic
occurs when mixtures of alkaline-based chems and cooking coils come into contact forming a soapy film
saponification
What is a big concern given being FF & 1st responders when responding to an attack?
secondary attack; usually IED & explosive
When operating a hoseline from a ladder, first pass it up the ladder then?
secure the hose to the ladder with a hose strap at a point several rungs below the one on which the nozzle operator is standing
The firefighter on the nozzle takes the line into the window and the other firefighters support the hose by?
securing it to the ladder rungs with hose straps or utility straps
spontaneous heating, is a form of chemical heat energy that occurs when a material increases in temp w/o the addition of external heat
self - heating
a belief in themselves and their abilities helps firefighters adapt to the changing condition that sometimes occur when wearing protective breathing apparatus
self confidence
sufficient heat will cause fuel and O2 to form free radicals and initiate the?
self sustained chemical reaction
Physical symptoms of chemical exposures happen how?
separately or in clusters
Storz couplings are sometimes referred to as?
sexless couplings
The portion of the coupling that serves as the point of attachment to the hose is called the?
shank (aka tailpiece, bowl, shell)
Sprinkler FDC
should be supplied with water from pumpers that havee a capacity of at least 1,000gpm with a minimum of two 2.5" or larger hoses.
WPIV
similar to the PIV except that it extends horizontally through the wall with the target valve operating nut on the outside of the building.
Asphyxiants that displace gases for breathing are called?
simple asphyxiants
Quick Opening Device
since several minutes could be lost while the air is being expelled from thhe system. standards require that a quick opening device bee installed in systems that have a water capacity over 500 gallons. An accelerator is one type of quick opening device.
Another way to extinguish is?
smothering or excluding oxygen from fire
degree to which a solid, liquid, or gas dissolves in a solvent (usually water)
solubility
Oxygen in Air - 17%
some impairment of muscular coordination, respiratory rate increase to compensate for lower oxygen content
Firefighters in IDLH atmospheres must always operate in teams of two or more and they should always have what?
some sort of tag line that they can follow back to their point of entry
weight of a substance compared to the weight of an equal volume of water a given temp
specific gravity
N. American railroad tank car markings that indicate the standards to which the tank car was built is called?
specification markings, specs
supporting which systems can be critical during a fire and such support should be a high priority?
sprinkler, carbon dioxide, standpipe, clean agent, dry chemical hood, wet chemical, and foam systems
NFPA Standards are consensus documents and are not law unless adopted by?
state, provincial, or local governing body
regardless of how the hose is brought up, fire crews normally?
stop one floor below the fire floor and connect to the standpipe
roots, peat and other partially decomposed organic matter that lie under the surface of the ground are?
subsurface fuels
the primary consideration is the surface area of the fuel in proportion to the mass which is called
surface to mass ratio
the density of the smoke increases with the amount of?
suspended particles
what refers to using chemical of physical methods to thoroughly remove haz mat from responders and their equipment?
technical
What is a measurement of kinetic energy?
temperature
another disadvantage of forward lay is that one member of the crew is temporarily unavailable for a fire fighting assignment because?
that person must stay at the hydrant long enough to make the connection and open the hydrant
Forced disconnect
the 911 caller can sometimes keep the line open after the EMD has hung up, this feature removes the call from the system in order to free the line for use again
who has jurisdiction over terrorist events in the US?
the FBI
Donut roll advantages
the FF has control of both couplings which protects them from damage
in many instances, ventilation must be accomplished horizontally w/ the use of mechanical ventilation devices and?
the HVAC systems in the buildings
Clear text is a standardized set of fire-specific words and phrases. for more info see?
the IFSTA Wildland Fire fighting for Structural Firefighters manual
Controlling electrical power is a decision made by?
the Incident Commander in consultation with the Incident Safety Officer
when sufficient oxygen is available, fire development is controlled by?
the characteristics and configuration of the fuel
who transmits a report on conditions to the communications center of a room and contents fire?
the company officer on the first arriving engine
Customer Service
the consumer of emergency services is the general public. These customers are entitled to professional service.
during this stage the fire goes from ventilation controlled to fuel controlled
the decay stage, where flaming combustion can no longer be supported
If a dry barrel hydrant is not opened fully...
the drain may be left partially open
1st arriving responders rely on what as a main resource?
the emergency response guidebook, ERG
You must be careful to pull the hood up after your SCBA mask is secure so that it does not compromise what?
the face piece to face seal. some departments advocate donning the hood before the turnout coat to help keep the bottom of the hood under the coat
when a structure or major contents are involved in fire, FF should not advance until?
the fire officer gives orders to - (should also stay low & out of doorway)
what is composed of the following four elements: oxygen, fuel, heat and a self sustained chemical chain reaction?
the fire tetrahedron
Who, better than anyone else are in a position to observe unusual conditions that may indicate an incendiary fire?
the first arriving FFs
at haz mat incidents, rescue of victims must be made within what?
the framework of the IAP with appropriate safety considerations
with a horseshoe load, two people are required to make the shoulder folds for the carry
the horseshoe hose is loaded on edge which can promote wear on hose edges
Donut roll advantages
the hose rolls out easier with fewer twists or kinks
fire personnel should not allow anyone to enter a fire scene w/o ______, and if allowed in they need an authorized individual escort
the investigator's permission
attack the fire from a 45-degree angle to?
the long axis of the vehicle
When alerting 911 by telephone, if no address, give what?
the nearest cross streets or describe nearby landmarks
is there a need for ventilation at this time?
the need must be based on heat, smoke and gas condition w/i the structure as well as the structural conditions and the life hazard
valuable info is gathered sometimes by allowing who to talk freely if they are inclined to do so?
the owners or occupants
what is the primary oxidizing agent in most fires?
the oxygen in the air around us
What determines how deeply into the unprotected lungs will particles be inhaled?
the particle size
remove charred materials to prevent what?
the possibility of rekindle and to help reduce smoke damage
Heavy fire loading
the presence of large amounts of combustible materials in an area or a building. Arrangement of said materials greatly impacts fire development and severity and must be considered analyzing the fire.
heat moves from warmer objects to those that are cooler
the rate at which heat is xfered is related to the temp diff of the bodies and the thermal conductivity of the mat involved
What consists of folding the last 3 lengths of hose into a compact bundle on top of the rest of the hose load?
the skid load finish
What consists of a mixture of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, finely divided carbon particles, and an assortment of products that have been released from the materials involved?
the smoke from a typical structure fire
Following Fire
the sprinkler equipment should be restored to service before leaving the premises and it should be done by reps of the occupants who are qualified to perform work. For liability purposes it is not recommended that firefighters do any of the work.
What consists of the last length or 2 of hose flaked loosely back and forth across the top of the hose load?
the straight finish - associated w/ fwd. lay ops; hydrant wrench, gate valve and adapters are usually strapped to the hose or near female coupling
Water Chutes
used get leaking water out of the house, some FD carry prepared chutes about 10ft long but often one must construct one with or without pike poles
Dry pipe systems
used in locations where temps are expected to dip below 40F. All the pipes in this sustem are sloped to help drain the water in the system back to the main drain. Designed so that a small amount of air pressure above the dry pipe valve will hold back a much greater water pressure on the water supply side of the dry pipe valve. 20psi.
Open-circuit SCBA
uses compressed air; exhaled air vented to outside atmosphere
Computer-Aided Dispatch
using CAD systems can shorten response times or enable dispatchers to handle a greater volume of calls
describes the density of gases in relation to air
vapor density, air has a vapor density of 1
what spill control tactic involves action taken to direct or influence the course of airborne haz mat?
vapor dispersion
which spill control tactic can only be used on water soluble gases and is conducted by applying a fog stream on a container or directly on a spill?
vapor dissolution
which spill control tactic involves action taken to reduce the emission of vapors at a haz mat incident?
vapor suppression
Type I
(Fire Resistive) Maintains its structural integrity during a fire and that is intended to allow its occupants time to get out. Consists of mainly reinforced concrete with structural members protected by blow-on insulation or sprinklers. interior contents aree the main fire hazard.
When should pumpers be disconnected?
(From the FDC) Not until after the extinguishment has been confirmed by a thorough overhaul.
Type IV
(heavy timber construction) interior/exterior walls and structural members be made of noncombustible/limited combustible materials. Solid/laminated wood with no concealed spaces Primary fire hazard is massive amount of combustible contents presented by structural timbers
Type II
(non-combustible construction) made of the same components as type I except that it lacks the insulation or other protection of type I. All metal buildings fit into this category. one of the primary protection concerns is the contents of the building. often have flat roofs.
Type III Construction
(ordinary Construction) requires that exterior walls and structural members be made of noncombustible or limited combustible materials such as concrete or clay tile blocks
General ground ladder maintenance requirements
***Keep ground ladders free of moisture Do not store where they can exposed to exhaust or engine heat Do not store where exposed to elements Do not paint; except top and bottom 18 inches of beams
observations during fire fighting operations include?
- Abnormal behavior of fire when water is applied - incendiary devices
Communication Skills
- Basic reading skills - Basic writing skills - Ability to speak clearly - Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
depending upon the nature of the emergency, the following info may be included when giving a report on conditions:
- address , bldg & occupancy description, nature & extend of fire/emergency, attack mode selected, rescue & exposure problems, instructions to other units, location of IC position, est. command, water supply situation
Characteristics of a quality telecommunicator
- adjust to various levels of activity - ability to multi-task - make judgements/decisions based on common sense and values - maintain composure - form conclusions from muddled facts - handle criticism - remember and recall information - deal with verbal abuse - function under stress - maintain confidentiality
Monthly inspections should include removing the equipment from service and checking the following:
- all components for deterioration - leaks around valves and hose connections - operations of all gauges, valves, regulator, exhalation valve and low air alarm
Receiving Nonemergency calls from the public
- answer promptly - be pleasant and state your name/dept - prepare to record if necessary - never leave line open or caller on hold for a long time - immediately deliver caller's message to intended person - allow caller to hang up first, ALWAYS
Some roles of the telecommunicator plays are:
- assign tactical frequency - ensure addition units about frequency used - notify other agencies & services of the incident - provide updated info that affects the incident
Skills required for FF 1 include:
- carrying hose - advancing charged and uncharged hose lines - extending hose lines
Broken stream advantages
- coarse drops absorb more heat / gal - greater reach and penetration than fog - effective in confined spaces
Factors that affect fire development
- compartment geometry - ventilation and changes in ventilation
Staffed Stations include these alerting systems:
- computerized line printer - voice alarm - teletype - house bell or gong - house light - phone from telecommunicator on a secure line - telegraph register - radio w/ tone alert - radio/pagers
What are the means of moving water?
- direct pumping systems - gravity systems - combination systems
roof leader responsibilities include:
- directing efforts to minimize secondary damage - coordinating the crew's efforts w/ those of FF inside the building
When laying hose:
- do not ride in a standing position when the apparatus is moving
roof leader responsibilities include:
- ensure roof is safe to operate on - ensure that only the required openings are made
roof leader responsibilities include:
- ensuring that the team leaves the roof as soon as their assignment is completed
roof leader responsibilities include:
- ensuring the safety of all who are helping open the building
Wired Telegraph Circuit box - These boxes were connected to a wired telegraph circuit that was connected to all fire stations in the jurisdiction and terminated in the alarm communications center
- extremely reliable & extremely limited - only gave location info, nothing else - notorious for false alarms - need has greatly diminished b/c of public/cell phones
hoseline selection should be dependent upon fire conditions and other factors:
- fire load & mats involved - volume of water needed to extinguish - stream reach needed
Factors that affect fire development
- fuel type - availability & location of additional fuel in relation to the fire location
Receiving Emergency calls from the public
- identify the agency - control the conversation and ask pertinent questions - gather incident location, type and # of people involved
2 other radio tips?
- keep things out of your mouth like gum or candy - think about what you want to say before keying the microphone
What are the three basic elements to effective air management?
- know your point of no return (beyond 50% of the air supply of the team member with the lowest gauge reading) - know how much air you have (at all times) - make a conscious decision to stay or leave when your air is down to 50%
observations upon arrival also include?
- location of the fire - containers or cans - burglary tools - familiar faces (might be habitual firesetters)
SCBA removal procedures and maneuvering
- maintain contact with belt mounted regulators at all times - loosen straps as necessary to reduce your profile - reduce your profile further by removing one or both backpack harness straps if absolutely necessary - push the SCBA in front of you as necessary, maintaining control of the SCBA at all times
disadvantages of broken streams
- may conduct electricity, not recommeneded for class c fires - stream my not reach some fires
Unstaffed Stations include these alerting systems:
- pagers - cell phone & text messaging devices - * home electronic monitors - telephones - sirens - whistles or air horns
No matter how the cylinders are filled, the same safety precautions apply:
- place the cylinder in a shielded fill station - prevent the cylinder from overheating by filling slowly - ensure that the cylinder is completely full but not over pressurized
methods of fire streams in include:
- reducing high atmosphere temperature - dispersing hot smoke and fire gases from a heated area
other departments use an initial report format that includes:
- situation found - action(s) taken or to be taken - command status
List three factors that affect the selection of the proper portable fire extinguisher?
1-Classification of fuel burning 2-Rating of the extinguisher 3-Hazards to be protected 4-Size and intensity of the fire 5-Atmospheric conditions 6-Any life hazard or operations concerns 7-Ease of handling extinguisher 8-Availability of trained personnel
What procedures should be part of every fire extinguisher inspection?
1-In its proper location? 2-Obstructions in nozzle or horn? 3-Shell without damage? 4-Instructions legible? 5-Pin and seal tampered with? 6-Full and pressurized? If less than 10% from previous inspection, OOS and replace. 7-Check tag for previous inspections, maintenance or recharging. 8- Condition of hose and fittings?
What should be checked immediately before using a portable extinguisher?
1-No apparent external damage. 2-Hose and nozzle or horn are in place. 3-It feels as though it has agent in it when lifted. 4-Pressure gauge is in the operable range.
Size webbing widely used in fire service
1-inch; most for lifting and pulling starts at 2 inches
At least what size hose should be used in a vehicle fire?
1.5-inch hoseline
whenever one FF is required to operate a small hose and nozzle, the hoseline should be at least how many feet behind the nozzle/
10 ft
Gravity pressure is adequate only when the primary water sources is at least how much higher than the highest point in the water distribution system?
100 ft or (30m)
Salvage Tools
100ft of electrical cable with locking type connectors pigtail ground adapters tin roof cutter j hooks/s hooks automatic sprinkler kit lineolum knife tin snips
at normal ambient temps, mats can ignite and burn at O2 concentrations as low as
14%
The human body responds by increasing its respiratory rate when oxygen concentrations are below?
18%
Both OSHA and NFPA define an oxygen deficient atmosphere as one containing less than what percent of oxygen?
19.5%
NFPA Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus
1901. Requires that pumping apparatus have two approved portable fire extinguishers with mounting brackets and must be suitable for use on Class B and Class C fires.
Extinguishing Agents Work By:
1: Smothering (oxygen exclusion) 2: Cooling (reducing the burning material below its ignition temperature) 3: Chain Breaking (interrupting the chemical chain reaction) 4: Saponification (forming an oxygen-excluding soapy foam)
How many FFs are needed on a 2 FF spread with a folded salvage cover?
2
Hose clamps should be places at least?
20 feet behind the apparatus
Oxygen is one of the more common elements on earth, our atmosphere is composed of what percentage?
21% oxygen
A minimum of how many inches of water above and below the hard intake strainer is usually needed for it to function properly?
24 inches
how many additional sections of hose should be used to replace any one bad section?
2; b/c hoselines stretch to longer lengths when under pressure
what is the designated signal for evacuation?
3 short 1 second horn bursts
extend ladders at least __ to __ rungs above the roof line and secure the ladder
3 to 5
Composite cylinders should be tested every
3 years
Symbols for Extinguishers
A: Green Triangle. Trash can and campfire. B: Red Square. Gas can over pool of fire. C: Blue Circle. Electrical Cord and outlet with flames. D: Yellow Star. Smoking gear shaft. K: Black Hexagon. Frying pan on fire.
Firefighters who wear prescription safety eyeglasses should select frames and lenses that meet what standard?
ANSI Standard Z87.1, Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye and Face Protection
which respiratory protection requires constant monitoring of the contaminated atmosphere?
APR
When should FFs report observations to their supervisor?
ASAP
What is an observation during firefighting ops when water is applied?
Abnormal behavior - flashbacks, reignition, rekindles
Commercial Lines
Access the public switch network.
a rotating, power operated ladder mounted on a self propelled automotive fire apparatus
Aerial Ladder
Simplest method of fuel removal
Allow fire to burn until all fuel is consumed
Stored-Pressure Water Extinguishers
Also called Air-Pressurized Water (APW) extinguishers. Useful for all types of small Class A fires, particularly for extinguishing small hot spots during overhaul operations. Typically water is stored in a tank along with either compressed nitrogen or air.
All firefighters who are certified to wear SCBA must fit tested how often?
Annually or when new face pieces are issued to determine proper fit of the face piece
Extinguishing Agent
Any substance used for the purpose of controlling or extinguishing a fire.
How far of an area should be cordoned off around transmission lines?
Area equal to one span
What tool is used to open walls and floors?
Axe
pressure vessels containing flammable liquids, such as propane, are heated by direct flame contact rupture and release their contents
BLEVE - Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion
Valve used in pumper discharges and gated wyes and in fire pump piping systems
Ball valves
Which valve is the most common nozzle control valve and provide effective control during nozzle operation w/ minimal effort?
Ball valves
Tool that uses a case-hardened screw that is screwed into the key-way of the padlock
Bam-bam tool; does not work on Master, American, or other high-security locks
In order to properly ventilate, FFs must understand?
Basic types and designs of roofs
If an unusual spray was released, what is that indicative of?
Biological Agents
Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers
Both handheld and wheeled. Most effective in extinguishing Class B and C fires. Because their discharge is in the form of a gas, they have a limited reach and the gas can be dispersed by wind. They do not require freeze protection. Stored under its own pressure, discharge is usually accompanied by dry ice crystals or 'snow'. The CO2 displaces the oxygen and smothers the fire. No cooling effect or vapor suppressing film. CAUTION: When CO2 is discharged, a static electrical charge builds up on the discharge horn. Touching the horn before the charge has dissipated can result in shock.
The amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 pound of water 1 degree Fahrenheit
British Thermal Unit - BTU
Halon 1211
Bromochlorodifluoromethane. Has been replaced by FE-36, hexafluoropropane.
Halon 1301
Bromotrifluoromethane. Has been replaced by FE-241, Cholotetrafluoroethane and FM-200, Heptafluoropropane.
NFPA 5000
Building Construction and Safety Code.
Structure that would require horizontal ventilation
Buildings which fire has not involved attic
Valve used on large pump intakes and incorporate a flat baffle that turns 90 degrees?
Butterfly valves
Preemptive Ways for aid in Salvage
By working with loss control reps of various local businesses
Answers to # 61, 62, 65
C, C, C
What can be used to distribute water at various points along main supply line?
LDH or water thief
Hose beds on some fire apparatus are divided or separated by a vertical panel that runs from front to rear end of the hose compartment
Called a split bed
Feature that allows telecommunicator to maintain access to caller's phone line
Called party hold
Failure time for lightweight construction
Can fail after 5-10 minutes. Can fail from exposure to heat alone without direct contact from flames.
colorless, odorless, dangerous gas (toxic & flammable) formed by the incomplete combustion of carbon
Carbon Monoxide (CO), combines > 200 times as quickly w/ blood than O2, so body can't carry O2
is a product of complete combustion of organic mats, not toxic but still displaces O2
Carbon dioxide (CO2), acts as a resp stimulant, increasing resp rate
More fire deaths result from what when compared to any other toxic product of combustion?
Carbon monoxide
Hemoglobin saturated with carbon monoxide and therefore unable to absorb needed oxygen is called?
Carboxyhemoglobin (COHb)
Carryalls
Catch falling debris and are good for submersing small burning objects
Are devices that are used to protect fire hose where the hose is subjected to rubbing from vibrations?
Chafing blocks; particularly useful where intake hose comes in contact with pavement and curbs
Halogenated Agents
Chemical compounds (halogenated hydrocarbons) that contain carbon plus one or more elements from the halogen series. Halon 1301 and Halon 1211 are most commonly used as extinguishing agents for Class B and Class C fries. Also called Halogenated Hydrocarbons.
Some FD also monitor ___ for radio frequencies for reports of emergencies?
Citizens Band (CB) radio; the universal frequency for reporting emergencies and CB Channel 9 is most commonly monitored by emergency providers
Valve used siamese appliances to allow water to flow in one direction only
Clapper valves; is a flat disk hinged at the top or one side that swings in a door like manner
Fires involving ordinary combustibles; water most common extinguishing agent
Class A
involves ordinary combustible mats such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber, grass and many plastics
Class A Fire, extinguish by cooling to reduce fire temp
The measure for heat energy in the International System of Units (SI) or metric system is called?
Joules, equal to 1 newton over a distance of 1 meter
Extinguisher Rating System
Class A and B are rated according to performance capability, usually a number. Class A are rated 1-A through 40-A. Based on volume of water. 1-A contains 1.25 gallons or 5L water. 2-A contains 2.5 gallons or 10L of water. Class B ranges from 1-B through 640-B. This is the square footage of flammable fuel that the extinguisher can put out. Class C ratings confirm that the agent does not conduct electricity, and then either the A or B rating. Class D are metal specific, application instructions are on label. Class K must be capable of saponifying vegetable oils, peanut oils, canola oils with a surface area of 2.25 square feet.
What fires are AFFF extinguishers most effective on?
Class A and Class B fires.
What should be used in a trash can fire?
Class A foam
What are the 3 most common combinations for for extinguishers with multiple markings?
Class A/B/C, Class A/B and Class B/C.
Light blue hydrant
Class AA; 1500 gpm or greater
Fires involving flammable and combustible liquids, gases and greases; use CO2, dry chemical, and Class B foam to put out
Class B
involves flammable & combustible liquids and gases such as gas, oil, point, alcohol
Class B Fire, extinguished w/ foam and/or dry chemical agents
involves energized electrical equipment like household appliances, electric motors, computers etc
Class C Fire, first de-energize then begin extinguishing efforts, agents must not conduct electricity
Confirms that extinguishing agent will not conduct electricity
Class C Rating
involves combustible metals such as aluminum, magnesium, potassium
Class D Fire, extinguish carefully as usual methods don't always work (water/foam/dry chemicals)
Fires involving combustible cooking oils; use wet chemicals and Class K portable extinguishers
Class K
involves oils and greases normally found in commercial kitchens and food prep facilities using deep fryers
Class K Fire, req. extinguishing agent specifically for mats involved
Fires that involve oils and greases normally found in commercial kitchens and food prep facilities using deep fryers
Class K fires
This SCBA uses compressed oxygen and the user's exhaled air stays within the system and is reused?
Closed circuit SCBA
Rapid oxidation
Combustion of methane
Dangers of Gypsum
Commonly used in providing insulation to steel and wood structural members that are less adapted to high heat situations because it breaks down gradually under fire conditions. In areas where gypsum has failed it will be subjected to higher temps and could fail as a result.
CAD
Computer Aided Dispatch, sophisticated mapping displays which are displayed on computer screens and let staff advise units of the best route etc.
Salvage
Consists of those operations associated with FF that aid in reducing primary and secondary damage during fire fighting operations
Overhaul
Consists of those operations involved in searching for and extinguishing hidden or remaining fires.
Class C Fires
Created by electricity energizing Class A or Class B fires. Water and water-based agents cannot be used to extinguish these fires until they are de-energized. Disconnect power supply, then use the appropriate extinguisher based on what is burning.
What is used when a large volume of water is needed near the end of a main supply line?
LDH manifold appliance
What does chemical damage do to a hose?
Damages outer jacket or causes rubber lining to separate from inner jacket
Oxygen in Air - 6%
Death within a few minutes from respiratory failure and concurrent heart failure
Public Alerting Systems - Telephone
Depending on the locality, the FD emergency number may be 911 or a 7 digit number or "0" for the operator
Which is not a type of container stress? Thermal/Mechanical/Chemical/Design
Design
Volume of water discharged on a master stream is determined by?
Design of nozzle and water pressure at the nozzle
Clean Agent Extinguishers
Designed specifically as a replacement for Halon 1211. Include hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCCF), hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), perfluorocarbon (PFC) or fluoroidiocarbon (FIC). These agents effecively cool and smother fires in Class A and B fuels, non-conductive and can be used on energized electrical equipment. If these agents are pressurized with Argon gas, they are approved by the EPA.
TDD/TTY/Text phones
Designed to allow the speech or hearing impaired to access the 911 system.
Special Preinciident Plans
Developed for buildings with high value contents that are especially susceptible to water and smoke damage
Direct Lines
Differ from normal phone lines in that they do not have access to the public switch network. and have no dial tone. Line is directly connected between point A and point B. Common applications would be between a FD and a hospital.
Type II Weaknesses
Difficult to breach Unprotected steel can fail due to heat Less stable roof systems Steel subject to corrosion massive debris following collapse
Detecting Hidden Fires
Discolouration of materials Peeling/Bubbling Paint Smoke emissions from cracks Cracks Rippling wallpaper Burned areas Also remember to touch, listen, and check with any electronic sensors
When to begin overhaul?
Do not start until the fire is under control, the cause of the fire has been determined, and any evidence has been identified and protected. More simply put, do not begin until authorized by the Fire Investigator.
Sprinkler system used in locations where piping may be subjected to temps. below 40 degrees F
Dry-pipe
Rope not considered practical for rescue or hauling applications
Dynamic
Rope used when long falls possible (high stretch)
Dynamic
Fire company that deploys hoselines for fire attack and exposure protection
Engine company
What are dispatchers not responsible for?
Evalating the appropriateness requests for assistance. All requests must be forwarded to the appropriate agencies.
Before Starting a search for Hidden Fires
Evaluate the condition of the area to be searched. 1. the intensity of the fire 2. Amount of water used for its control
Map Reading
Even today it is still critical for dispatchers to be able to look at a map and locate specific points.
What does a rotary control valve consist of?
Exterior barrel guided by a screw that moves it forward or backward, rotating around an interior barrel
Type III requirements
Exterior walls made of noncombustible materials - concrete blocks or clay tile blocks
Extinguisher Inspection Prior to Use
External Condition-no apparent damage. Hose/Nozzle-in place. Weight-feels as though it contains agent. Pressure Gauge (if available)-in operable range. Do you have the correct class of extinguisher for your fire?
Check these 4 before using extinguishers
External condition - no damage Hose/nozzle - in place Weight - feels as it contains agent Pressure gauge - in operable range
Dry Powder
Extinguishing agent suitable for use on combustible metal fires.
Halogenated Agent Systems
Extinguishing system that uses a halogenated gas as the primary extinguishing agent; usually installed to protect highly sensitive electronic equipment.
Wet Chemical System
Extinguishing system that uses a wet-chemical solution as the primary extinguishing agent; usually installed in range hoods and associated ducting where grease may accumulate.
Dry Chemical
Extinguishing system that uses dry chemical powder as the primary extinguishing agent; often used to protect areas containing volatile flammable liquids.
When 2 or more FFs lifting a ladder, who has command?
FF at butt of ladder who can see entire operation
If trapped by structural collapse or you suffer an injury
Find a place of relative safety and activate PASS device
This term describes a type of flexible tube used by firefighters to carry water or other extinguishing agents from a source to a point of application?
Fire hose
Temperature at which sufficient vapors are being generated to sustain combustion reaction
Fire point
Masonry is used in the construction of?
Fire walls
Uses of Masonry walls
Fire walls load-bearing Veneer
Type I building construction
Fire-resistive
Total Flooding System
Fire-suppression system designed to protect hazards within enclosed structures. Foam is released into a compartment or area and fills it completely to extinguish the fire.
Awareness and Steel beams
Firefighters must try and determine how long a steel beam has been exposed to heat as this will give an indication on how long it will be until the beam fails
Avoid placing ladders where exposed to?
Flames/excessive heat
Temperature at which liquid gives off sufficient vapors to ignite, but not sustain combustion (aka piloted ignition)
Flash point
Indicators of Structural Instability
Floor joists have been burned away Concrete spalling Weakened steel roof members (weakened tensile strength at 500F) Walls Offset Mortar in wall joints opened to excessive heat. Wall ties have been melted away Heavy storage on upper floors Large qualities of wet insulation
Air-Aspirating Foam Nozzle
Foam nozzle especially designed to provide the aeration required to make the highest quality foam possible; most effective appliance for the generation of low-expansion foam.
Small Burning Objects
Frequently found during overhaul, due to their size and condition it is more effective to submerge the entire object in containers of water.
Corrosive Materials
Gaseous, liquid, or solid materials that can burn, irritate, or destroy human skin tissue and can severely corrode steel. Also called Corrosives.
Valve used to control the flow from a hydrant
Gate valves
Rope or cable used for hoisting and lowering fly sections of extension ladder (aka fly rope)
Halyard
What must be worn for head protection?
Hard hats or helmets with chin straps
This type of hose is primarily used to draft water from a static source?
Hard intake hose aka hard suction
Dispose of hose according to departmental SOP if it has been exposed to?
Hazardous materials and cannot be decontaminated
HVAC stands for?
Heating, Ventilating, Air-Conditioning
High-secuirty padlocks designed with what type of shackle?
Heel and toe shackle; will not pivot if only one side of shackle is cut
special cut at the beginning of the thread on a hose coupling that provides positive identification of the first thread to eliminate cross thread?
Higbee cut
Venting of heat, smoke, and gases through horizontal openings such as windows and doors
Horizontal ventilation
The threads on pump male discharge outlets are protected with?
Hose caps
What should be located in a clean, well ventilated room with easy access?
Hose racks
produced in the combustion of mats containing nitrogen, acts as a chemical asphyxiate
Hydrogen cyanide (HCN), prevents the body from using O2 at the cellular level
Who can call for additional alarms or resources at a fire?
IC
at some fires, it may be necessary to call for additional resources, normally only the?
IC may strike multiple alarms or order additional resources
Precast roof slabs are available
In many shapes, sizes, and designs
Changing Sprinklers
In may jurisdictions the job of changing sprinklers must be performed by the reps of the buildings occupants who are qualified to perform work on sprinkler systems. In others firefighters are allowed to replace fused or damaged sprinklers. Follow SOPs.
NRP - national response plan
LERP (local emergency response plan)
Water Mist
In the fire service, water mist is associated with a fire extinguisher capable of atomizing water through a special applicator. Water-mist fire extinguishers use distilled water, while back-pump type water-mist extinguishers use ordinary water.
Written or unwritten plan for managing the emergency
Incident Action Plan (IAP)
Masonry Materials
Includes bricks, stones and concrete blocks, which do not burn and so a variety of masonry walls are used in the construction of fire walls
Frangible bulb
Incorporates a small bulb filled with liquid and an air bubble to hold the orifice shut. Bubble prevents false activations through changes in atmospheric conditions. In a fire heat expands the liquid until the bubble is absorbed into the liquid. this increases the internal pressure until the bulb shatters at the proper temperature. Regulated by the amount of liquid and the size of the bubble in the bulb.
Disadvantages of hydraulic ventilation
Increase in water damage Drain on available water supply Increase in ice on ground outside building FFs must remain in heat Op may be interrupted to replenish air supply
Most main water control valves are of?
Indicating type and manually operated
Gypsum
Inorganic product from which plaster is and wall boards are constructed. It is unique because it has high water content and the evaporation of this water absorbs a great deal of heat.
The size of a fire hose refers to its?
Inside diameter
Steps to Establishing Safe Conditions
Inspecting the premises Developing an operational plan Providing needed tools and equipment Eliminating or mitigating hazards (including utilities)
Pump-Type Water Extinguishers
Intended for use on small Class A fires only. Equipped with either a single or double acting pump.
Type III Weaknesses
Interior structural members vulnerable to fire involvement fire spread potential through concealed spaces susceptible to water damage
How should a fog stream be used on an indirect attack?
Introduced through a small opening and directed at ceiling where heat is most intense
Obsolete Extinguishers
Inverted extinguishers. Carbon Tetrachloride and Chlorobromomethane extinguishers. Halon extinguishers.
Fire personnel should not allow anyone to enter a scene without?
Invetigator's permission
Class K Fires
Involve combustible cooking oils such as vegetable or animal fat oils that burn at extremely high temperatures. Wet Chemicals are used in the extinguishing systems and portable extinguishers or these fires.
Class D Fires
Involve combustible metals such as magnesium, lithium, potassium or sodium. Identified by bright white sparks and emissions from combustion process. Special Class D Dry Chemical agents are used, however, do not confuse these agents with standard dry chemicals that are used on Class B and C fires. They will not work.
Class B Fires
Involve flammable and combustible liquids, gasses, and greases such as alcohol, cooking oils, gasoline, lubricating oils, and liquefied petroleum gas. Pressurized flammable liquids and gases are special fire hazards that should not be extinguished until the fuel gas is shut off. These fires get larger as the fuel volume increases. These fires can be extinguished with CO2, dry chemical and foam agents.
Class A Fires
Involve ordinary combustibles such as textiles, paper, plastics, rubber and wood. These can be easily extinguished with water, water-based agents such as foam, or dry chemicals.
Class A foam
Is a wetting agent and of considerable value when removing hidden fires. they have excellent penetrating qualities when it comes to cotton upholstery and baled goods.
patches of unburned fuel inside the fire perimeter are called/
Islands - b/c of these, they must be patrolled frequently for spot fires
Who should monitor a line at a fire scene?
Law enforcement
If you are exhausted or feel you may lose consciousness, in order to find you easier you should?
Lie flat on the floor close to a wall
Tactical priorities
Life safety Incident stabilization Property conservation
Limitations of Equipment
Limited visibility Decreased ability to communicate ***Increased weight Decreased mobility
Two objectives of a building search
Locating victims (searching for life) Location and extent of fire (assessing fire conditions)
Primary obstacle FFs face in gaining access to a building
Locked or blocked doors; requires some form of forcible entry
Where does the straight start?
Male end
Includes bricks, stones, and concrete blocks
Masonry
How to repair holes
Mastic tape sew on patches duct tape
What is the MSDS?
Material Safety Data Sheet
Fire Load
Maximum heat that can be produced if all the combustible materials in a given area burn.
What happens when hose is exposed to petroleum products, paints, acids, or alkalis?
May be weakened to the point of bursting under pressure
Rapid cooling of Masonry
May cause cracking and can be a common problem in chimney fires.
Water supply
Minimum water supply has to delive the required volume of water to the highest sprinkler at a residual pressure of 15psi. Depends on the hazard, occupancy, and the building contents. In most cases the water supply for the sprinkler system is designed to supply only a fraction of the sprinklers actually installed on the system. Additional water and pressure must be supplied
What are MOPPs?
Mission Oriented Personal Protective Suits, provide 6 levels of protection
What can be used to both store hose and move hose from storage rooms to the apparatus for loading?
Mobile hose racks
Bulk transportation containers can be divided into 3 main categories determined by?
Mode of transportation
Wood building materials
Most common building material, may be used in loading bearing walls and non-load bearing walls.
Extinguisher Inspections
NFPA 10 and most fire codes state they must be inspected once per year. Important to look at its serviceability, accessibility and simplicity of operation. 1-In its proper location? 2-Inspect nozzle of obstructions. 3-Inspect shell for any damage. 4-Instructions legible? 5-Locking pin and tamper seal intact? 6-Full and pressurized? If deficient by 10% it should be replaced, OOS. 7-Check inspection tag for date of previous inspection, maintenance or recharging. 8-Examine condition of the hose and fittings.
Which NFPA standard requires that firefighters be able to connect a fire department pumper to a water supply as a member of a team?
NFPA 1001
Which standard requires FF to know precautions for the advancement & operation of hose lines on the fire ground?
NFPA 1001
Dry hydrants are designed to supply at least 1,000 gpm; more details in which NFPA standard?
NFPA 1142, Standard on Water Supplies for Suburban and Rural Fire Fighting
Standard for Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two- Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes
NFPA 13D
NFPA Standard for FF safety and health
NFPA 1500
Standard on Fire Dept. Occupational Safety and Health Program
NFPA 1500
Which NFPA standard prohibits wearing beards or facial hair that prevents a complete seal between the face piece and the wearer's face?
NFPA 1500
Which NFPA standard requires that protective clothing be cleaned through either a cleaning service or fire department facility that is equipped to handle contaminated clothing?
NFPA 1500
Which NFPA standard requires that personal protective clothing be clean and dried at least every six months in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations?
NFPA 1581, Standard on Fire Department Infection Control Program
Which NFPA standard requires that water tenders on level ground be capable of dumping or filling at rates of at least 1,000 gpm?
NFPA 1901, Standard for Automotive fire Apparatus
Which NFPA lists specifications for fire hose?
NFPA 1961, Standard on Fire Hose
Compliant with which NFPA, Storz couplings on large diameter hose must have locking devices on them?
NFPA 1963
Which NFPA lists specifications for fire hose couplings and screw threads?
NFPA 1963, Standard for Fire Hose Connections
Standard on Protective Clothing for Wildland
NFPA 1977
Use only PASS devices that meet the requirements of which NPFA standard?
NFPA 1982, Standard on Personal Alert Safety Systems
This NFPA specifies the minimum design, performance, and certification requirements for the structural fire fighting ensemble, as well as the test methods that must be used by manufacturers to demonstrate compliance?
NFPA 9171
Good motor coordination is necessary for operating in protective breathing equipment
Neurological functioning
Good motor coordination necessary for operating in protective breathing equipment
Neurological functioning
Waterflow Alarms
Normally operated either hydraulically or electrically. hydraulic is a local alarm that is used to alert the personnel in the building or a passerby. Electric may also be employed to alert building occupants and can be configured to notify the FD
Glass
Not typically used for structural support. Wire glass may perform some thermal protection as separation. heated glass can shatter when hit by cold stream.
Slow oxidation
O2 + iron - forms rust
When to Begin Salvage
Often these can be started at the same times as the fire attack if on scene resources permit. When possible group objects together and in the centre of the room.
Water Vacuum
One of the easiest and fastest ways to remove water. Used where the water is not deep enough to be picked up by a submeersible pump or siphon ejector. Backpacks are 4-5 gallons and the floor models are up to 20 gallons.
This SCBA uses compressed air and exhaled air is vented to the outside atmosphere?
Open circuit SCBA
Reports directly to IC and responsible for all activities focused on reducing immediate hazard, saving lives and property, establishing situational control, and restoring of normal ops.
Operations Section Chief (Ops)
Type III building construction
Ordinary construction
NFPA 1971 requires that all protective coats used for structural fire fighting be made of which three components?
Outer shell, moisture barrier, and thermal barrier
Avoid placing ladders where they come in contact with?
Overhead obstructions such as tree limbs, wires, or signs
Fire triangle - 3 parts
Oxygen, Fuel, Heat (provides reasonable explanation of nonflaming or smoldering combustion)
The blood's hemoglobin combines with and carries oxygen in a loose chemical combinations called?
Oxyhemoglobin
PASS Method of Application
P-Pull the pin. A-Aim the nozzle. S-Squeeze the handles together. S-Sweep the nozzle back and forth.
make certain that the cone of air from the blower covers the entire entry opening when using?
PPV - Positive Pressure Ventilation
Escape Route
Pathway to safety. It can lead to an already burned area, a previously constructed safety area, a meadow that will not burn, or a natural rocky area that is large enough to take refuge without being burned. When escape routes deviate from a defined physical path, they must be clearly marked (flagged).
What is inserted into a flowing fluid to measure the velocity pressure of the stream?
Pitot Tube; works by converting velocity energy to pressure energy that can be read on a pressure gauge
Single-beam ladders with rungs projecting from both sides of beam (aka scaling ladders)
Pompier ladders; have large metal "gooseneck"
Hollow metal post that houses the valve stem; has movable plate with words OPEN or SHUT
Post indicator valve (PIV)
Dry systems that employ a deluge-type valve fire detection devices, and closed sprinklers
Preaction systems
Lightweight concrete
Precast concrete roof that uses lightweight material made of gypsum plaster and portland cement mixed with aggregates
What is adaptable for varying widths of hose beds and is often used in traverse beds?
Preconnected flat load - similiar to flat load but is preconnected and loops are provided to pull hose from bed
Rapid but thorough search that is performed either before or during fire supression operations
Primary search
Clean Agent: Primary and Secondary Extinguishing Characteristics
Primary: Chain Inhibition. Secondary: Cooling.
Dry Chemical: Primary and Secondary Extinguishing Characteristics
Primary: Chain Inhibition. Secondary: Oxygen Depletion
Water: Primary and Secondary Extinguishing Characteristics
Primary: Cooling. Secondary: Oxygen Depletion.
Carbon Dioxide: Primary and Secondary Extinguishing Characteristics
Primary: Oxygen Depletion. Secondary: Cooling.
Dry Powder: Primary and Secondary Extinguishing Characteristics
Primary: Oxygen Depletion. Secondary: Heat Transfer Cooling.
Foam: Primary and Secondary Extinguishing Characteristics
Primary: Oxygen Depletion. Secondary: Vapor Suppression.
Wet Chemical: Primary and Secondary Extinguishing Characteristics
Primary: Oxygen Depletion. Secondary: Vapor Suppression.
Minimizing Losses
Properly applied suppression techniques plus prompt and effective use of good salvage and overhaul procedures will minimize the total losses
What is the PASS method?
Pull the pin. Aim the nozzle. Squeeze the handles together. Sweep the nozzle back and forth.
versatile apparatus described as engines equipped w/ a hydraulically operated extension ladder?
Quints - (or as aerial apparatus equipped with a pump)
2 or more FF stationed outside the hazard zone in order to rescue other FF inside?
Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC)
Cast iron
Rarely used in modern construction, commonly used as exterior veneer in older buildings. Stands up well in a fire but can crack under rapid cooling
Where should salvage equipment be located?
Readily accessible area on apparatus
Salvage Equipment Location
Readily accessible area on the truck, though individual SOPs will determine which apparatus will say who carries and performs those operations
What must be kept while maintaining and servicing equipment for training?
Records - should be tested according to manufacturer's instructions and applicable standards
NFPA 13R
Standard for the installation of sprinkler systems in residential occupancies up to and including four stories in height.
NFPA 220
Standards on Types of of Building Construction
What should you do when inspecting a hydrant?
Remove all outlet caps to verify that they are not stuck
What effectively extinguishes any fire?
Removing the fuel source
How do CO2 extinguishers work?
Replaces and eliminates oxygen from the fire and smothers the fire.
Who should perform sprinkler system maintenance?
Representatives of the occupant who are qualified to perform work on sprinkler systems; not by fire dept. personnel
Strengths of Type I
Resists direct flame impingement Confines fire well Little collapse potential from effects of fire alone ***Impervious to water damage
Which finish is similar to the horseshoe load except that the bottom of the U portion of the horseshoe is at the rear of the hose bed?
Reverse Horseshoe Finish
Which method is used when a pumper must first go to the first location so a size-up can be made b4 laying a supply line?
Reverse lay - best if apparatus needs to stay near water source ie. drafting or boosting
What is used to hoist axes, pike poles, ladders, hoselines, portable fans and power saws?
Rope
What consists of an exterior barrel guided by a screw that moves it forward or backwater, rotating around an interior barrel?
Rotary Control Valve
What type of hose is not subject to damage caused by living organisms such as mildew and mold?
Rubber jacket hose
How to prevent thermal damage to hoses
Run water through hose that has not been used in some time to keep liner soft
what type of respiratory protection causes a change in profile? (tank and everything)
SCBA
1st Consideration of Overhaul
Safety
Charged hoselines during Overhaul
Same size lines used to bring the fire under control are not always necessary during overhaul. FD pumpers can often be disconnected from hydrants. Department SOPs may dictate that at least one supply line be left in place as a precaution. typically 1.5" or 1.75" attack lines are used for overhaul. some even use 1". During minor overhauls water fire extinguishers or booster hoses may be used on small fires
Upright
Screwed into the top of the piping and discharges water into a solid deflector, that breaks it into a hemispherical spray pattern that is redirected to the floor. Cannot be changed into the pendant position.
Existing roof openings refers to?
Scuttle hatches, skylights, monitors, ventilating shafts, and penthouse or bulkhead doors that can be used instead of or in addition to cutting a vertical ventilation opening in a roof
Which section of the MSDS provides info on haz mats?
Section 2
Which have high probabilities of hazardous materials? Shipping Port / Vets Office / Fast Food place / Dry Cleaners
Shipping Port - yes Vet Clinic - yes Fast Food place - no Dry Cleaners - yes
How are hidden fires detected?
Sight ***Touch Sound Electronic sensors
Wet Chemical Stored-Pressure Extinguishers
Similar in appearance to standard stored-pressure water extinguishers as well. These Class K units are specifically designed to control and extinguish fires in deep fryers. They contain a special potassium-based, low-pH agent formulated to cool and suppress fires in unsaturated cooking oils.
Water-Mist Stored-Pressure Extinguishers
Similar in appearance to standard stored-pressure water extinguishers, water-mist extinguishers use deionized water as the agent and nozzles that produce a fine spray instead of a solid stream. Because it is the impurities in water that make it electrically conductive, the deionized water also makes these Class A extinguishers safe to use on energized electrical equipment fires (Class C). The fine spray also enhances the cooling characteristics of water.
Wheeled Dry Chemical Extinguishers
Similar to handheld, but on larger scale. Same ideas apply.
Which devices are commonly used in small communities?
Sirens, whistles, and air horns; they produce a signal everyone can hear
Two factors with wood's reaction to fire
Size of the wood Moisture Content
Mechanisms of extinguishing agents
Smothering (O2 exclusion) ***Cooling (water on the fire to reduce below ignition temp.) Chain breaking (interrupting chain reaction) Saponification (forming soapy foam)
Smoldering or nonflaming combustion
Solid fuels that are porous and can char that undergo oxidation at surface of fuel
Drop Lines
Some FD have these from high risk occupancies which go directly from the building to FD. Especially prevalent in one industry/company towns
Class D Extinguishers and Agents
Some come in extinguisher form, others must be shoveled onto the fire. There is no single agent to control D fires. Most must be applied in sufficient depth to create a smothering 'blanket' on the fire. Apply gently so as not to break the forming crust. DO NOT apply water to a Class D fire. A violent reaction will ensue.
What is the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of a specified mass of a substance by one degree?
Specific Heat
Any one of a number of ways to lay multiple supply hose with a single engine
Split lay
NFPA 1061
Standard for Professional Qualifications for Public Safety Telecommunicator. This contains the minimum standards for dispatchers. FF that are used for this purpose must also meet the requirements of the above standard.
NFPA 13
Standard for the installation of sprinkler systems
NFPA 13D
Standard for the installation of sprinkler systems in one and two family dwellings and manufactured homes
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) Extinguishers
Suitable for use on Class A and Class B fires. particularly useful in combating fires in or suppressing vapors from small liquid fuel spills. Different from stored-pressure extinguishers in two ways: Contains a specific amount of AFFF concentrate mixed with water, and has an air-aspirating nozzle that aerates the foam solution, producing a better-quality foam than a standard extinguisher nozzle. When the AFFF and water are mixed, the resulting finished foam floats on the surface of fuels that are lighter than water. The vapor seal created by the film of water extinguishes the flame and prevents re-ignition. Not suitable for fires in Class C or D fuels, 3-D fires such as in fuel flowing down from an elevated point and fuel under pressure that is spraying from a leaking object. Most effective on static pools of liquids.
Type V WEaknesses
Susceptible to fire spread from outside Susceptible to rapid flame spread inside Susceptible to total collapse due to fire/explosion Susceptible to water damage
Type IV Weaknesses
Susceptible to fire spread from outside potential for flames susceptible to rapid interior flame spread water damage
What are used with threaded fire hose couplings?
Swivel gasket and expansion ring gasket
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)
Synthetic foam concentrate that, when combined with water, can form a complete vapor barrier over fuel spills and fires and is a highly effective extinguishing and blanketing agent on hydrocarbon fuels. Also called light water.
Principle of Risk Mgmt. that is vital to safety and must always be emphasized
Team integrity
Telephones
Telephones used to transmit voice messages, computer information and documents. THey have grown to resemble computers and computers today provide many of the same functions historically provided by the telephone.
This roll is commonly used in situations where hose is likely to be deployed for use directly from a roll?
The Donut Roll
which load begins with hose folded in 3 layers, and then are laid into the bed in an S-shaped fashion?
The Triple Layer Load - designed to be pulled by one person; bad b/c all 3 layers must be pulled b4 deployment
Conductivity
The ability of a substance to conduct an electrical current.
Smothering
The act of excluding oxygen from a fuel.
Primary concern for cast iron
The bolts or connections that hold the cast iron to the building can fail.
What does the dispatcher do with non-emergency calls?
The customer must be transferred or reeferred to another number to have the service request processed. Once they are on a non-emergency number they can provide necessary information to the customer about the appropriate agencies in the area.
In most jurisdictions, who has the legal responsibility for determining the cause and origin of a fire?
The fire chief
A sufficient reply to any question concerning cause is?
The fire is under investigation
What is a sufficient reply to the media by a FF?
The fire is under investigation; anything else can impede efforts to prove malicious intent
What can also be dehydrated when hose is hung to dry in a drying tower for a longer period of time than necessary?
The inner linings
Telecommunicators do not answer to?
The media
Which load is pulled and advanced by one person, carried on the shoulder off the ground so no obstacle snags?
The minuteman load
Bales of Rags/hay/cotton
The only way to ensure these items are completely extinguished is to break them apart.
this device can be set up in an open commercial doorway such as those on loading docks
master stream device for hydraulic ventilation
what flows a minimum of 350 gpm which can mean high friction loss in supply hose?
master stream devices - supplied by siamesing 2 or more hoselines into a manifold device
is generated by friction or compression
mechanical heat energy
clandestin drug labs are setup to produce which drug in majority?
meth
how many FF are needed to deploy a master stream device & supply water to it?
minimum of 2 FF, once in place it can be operated by 1 FF
what term is defined as the degree of readiness with with which 2 or more gases or liquids are able to mix with or dissolve into each other?
miscibility
materials that are capable of being mixed
miscible
All radio frequencies are?
monitored and every transmission will become part of the official record on the incident; they may also be used in local news coverage
what is a personal dosimeter?
monitors radiation levels
what is not an item that should be covered during safety briefing for criminal or terrorist activities?
moving any suspicious looking articles outside
firefighters must have the physical strength and size required to wear to protective equipment properly and the strength and stamina to perform effectively while wearing the equipment
muscular / skeletal conditional
Collapse Zone
must be one and a half times the height of the building and extends horizontally from the base of the building.
Residential Sprinkler Systems
must have a pressure guage, (to check air pressure on dry pipe systems and water pressure on wet pipe), a flow detector and a means for draining and testing the system. some are equipped with a fire FDC, usually 1.5"
what involves opening doors and windows to allow natural air currents to move smoke and heat out of the building?
natural ventilation
Forward lay disadvantage if a long hose is laid or hydrant has low pressure it may be?
necessary for a second pumper to boost the pressure in the line at the hydrant
this technique uses the wind to supply fresh air to replace that which is being expelled from the building?
negative pressure ventilation
the interface of the hot and cooler gas layers at the opening is commonly referred to as the?
neutral plane
what technical decon technique changes the PH of a corrosive?
neutralization
Composite Wood
newer construction often contains composite building components and materials that are made of wood fibers plastics and other substances joined by glue or resin. Can be highly combustible and produce very toxic gases.
at the operations level, can FF perform offensive actions to mitigate the hazard?
no
which strategy isolates the area to protect the public and EMS responders but allows the incident to run its course on its own?
non intervention
Oxygen in Air - 21%
normal conditions
when should sprinkler valves should be closed
not until fire officers are convinced that further operations will simply waste water, produce heavy water damage or hamper progress. premature closing of the valve could cause the fire to intensify
Hoseline during overhaul
nozzle should be placed so that it doesnt cause further water damage tighten leaking couplings using 100ft hoseline in the first section will reduce chance that couplings will be in building
note the fire's movement and intensity patterns, these can trace how the fire spread, identify the original ignition source and determine the fuel(s) involved
observe: fire patterns
this may indicate the use of accelerants or intentionally disconnected gas lines
observe: heat intensity
note anything that might suggest that preparations were made for a fire: absense of commonly cared for items like photos, pets, heirlooms etc
observe: personal possessions
Other items when sizing up
occupancy type adjacent exposures fire conditions
Hose should be washed with a mild soap or detergent using common scrub brushes w/ a stream of water to remove what?
oil; should be completely removed and rinsed with clear water
in underground transmission line situations, FF should keep the public at least?
one block (300 ft) away from the site and make sure the apparatus is not positioned over a utility access cover (man hole)
b/c local topography, fuel types, water availability and weather vary between regions then
the tools and techniques used to control wildland fires also vary
approach and attack the fire from which side?
the unburned side to keep it from spreading
haz waste shipments must should be accompanied by what?
the uniform hazardous waste manifest document
the reverse horseshoe finish and other wyed lines are normally used in connection with a reverse layout b/c?
the why connection is fastened to the 2.5 or 3 inch hose; unloading involves two operations that can be done consecutively by one person
FF should report all of their observations concerning the fire to?
their supervisor as soon as possible
the tendency of gases to form into layers according to temperature?
thermal layering
wooden shakes
these in particular, even when treated with a fire retardant will contribute significantly to the spread of fire. problem in wildfires.
Automatic Sprinkler Kit
these tools are used to stop the flow of water from an open sprinler before it had time to completely drain after system shutdown. Tongs or stoppers and wooden sprinkler wedges are suggested for this. Use caution when replacing sprinklers, some types require a spcial wrench to prevent damae to the sprinkler.
A requirement that operations level responders must meet in addition to the awareness level would be?
they can initiate defense
When water flows from a nozzle, the reaction is equally strong in the opposite direction
thus pushing the nozzle handler back, called nozzle reaction
A hose clamp can be used to stop the flow of water water in a hose line for the following reasons?
to allow advancement of a charged hose line up stairs
A hose clamp can be used to stop the flow of water water in a hose line for the following reasons?
to allow extension of a hose line w/o shutting down the water supply
A hose clamp can be used to stop the flow of water water in a hose line for the following reasons?
to allow replacement of a burst section of hose w/o shutting down the water supply
once the water supply has been established, the 2nd co. proceeds according to the the following priorities?
to back up the initial attack line
A hose clamp can be used to stop the flow of water water in a hose line for the following reasons?
to prevent charging the hose bed during a forward lay from a hydrant
FF should only make their statements to who?
to the investigator once they arrive
physical configuration of the land or terrain
topography
Oxygen in Air - 9%
unconsciousness
The resulting flow thru the drain hole can cause erosion of the soil around the base of the hydrant aka
undermining the hydrant
b/c it is difficult to drag a charged hose line up stairs, through doorways and around corners, it should be advanced how?
up stairways uncharged when conditions allow
in many depts, units are initially dispatched on the primary dispatch channel then?
upon arrival they switch to an assigned tactical channel to communicate with the IC
human footprints and tire marks must be protected, what is a good way to protect these prints and marks?
use cardboard boxes to prevent degrading of evidence until photographs or plaster casts can be made
Fiberglass
used for insulation purposes. glass is is not a significant fuel. materials used to bind the glass can be combustible and difficult to put out.
Steel in Buildings
used for structural support of large modern buildings.
when fire development is limited by the air supply, the fire is said to be?
ventilation controlled
Riser
vertical piping to which the sprinkler valve, one way check valve, FDC, alarm valve, main drain, and other components are attached
Water
water can add significant weight to the building. Water even a few inches can do this. Adding 6" to a 50x100ft building adds 78 tonnes of weight.
if a hydrant is closed too fast it is theoretically possible for it to cause a sudden increase in pressure within the water supply, this is aka?
water hammer
methods of fire streams in include:
water or foam directly onto burning material to reduce its temp
Entry personnel must wear full PPE including SCBA and
wear a tg line monitored by an attendant outside the enclosure
As a FF, your responsibility for gathering info begins when?
when the alarm is received
Rain roof
when the initial is leaking sometimes a second roof is put on top and this can create additional problems in regards to fire growth and ventilation
combustible mats w/ high surface to mass ratios are much more easily ignited and?
will burn more quickly than the same substance w/ less surface area
Type V
wood-frame. this has exterior walls, bearing walls, floors, roofs and supports made completely or partially of wood or other approved materials of smaller dimensions. Used for single family homes or apartment house up to 7 stories
Additional Safety Considerations
work in teams of 2 or more maintain awareness maintain a RIC team moniter personnel for the need for rehab beware of hidden gas or electrical utilities continued use of PAR
what is a recommended method to prevent heat exposure?
work rotation
What is the quickest and easiest way to move fire hose at ground level?
working line drag - but limited to available personnel
keep a ______ of anyone other than fire personnel who enters the scene during fireground operations or the investigation
written log
