FFI-Chapter 14
How should firefighters control the door?
Firefighters must control the door as it is opened. Place a rope hose tool or utility strap over the doorknob so it can be quickly pulled closed if needed. Once entry is made, the door should be closed enough to limit airflow into the structure without pinching or constricting the hoseline.
What happens when a firefighter uses the right amount of water during a fire?
If an appropriate amount of water is used with good nozzle technique as described in this chapter, the hot gases within the fire compartment will contract. The contraction of the hot gases may offset the expansion of the steam. If the cooling process is effective, steam production will be kept to a minimum.
What do you do in pre-flashover conditions?
If preflashover conditions are observed upon opening the door (high volume of turbulent smoke and a lower neutral plane), apply water to the hot gas layer but do not enter the structure. if necessary, close the door, retreat, and use different tactics to improve interior conditions before attempting reentry.
When does water have its greatest effect?
water absorbs significant heat as its temperature is raised, but it has its greatest effect when it is vaporized into steam. When water is converted to steam, it absorbs five times more energy than warming the liquid to the boiling point. It also rapidly expands approximately 1,700 times. Because of this expansion rate, firefighters should avoid creating steam.
When should the sprinkler system be shut down?
Shutting the sprinkler systems's control valve should only be done once the fire is under control and the IC has given the order to do so. Closing the valve before the fire is under control can lead to rapid increase in fire conditions. Once they system is shut off, it will not activate should another fire occur and the system will not alarm if there is a fire.
Definition of Exterior Exposure:
building or other combustible object located close to the fire building that is in danger of becoming involved due to heat transfer from the fire building.
What is propane commonly used in?
campers, agricultural applications, businesses, manufactured homes, rural homes, and motor vehicles.
Definition of Parallel Attack:
constructing a fireline parallel to a wildland fire's edge. After the line is constructed, the fuel inside the line is burned out.
What is the significance of cooling and what does it do?
cooling reduces the temperature of a fuel to a point where it does not produce sufficient vapors to burn. The use of water for cooling is the most effective method available for the extinguishment of smoldering fires.
What is the most common method of fire control and extinguishment?
cooling with water.
Definition of Exposure Protection:
covering any object in the immediate vicinity of the fire with water or foam.
Definition of Wall Post Indicator Valve (WPIV):
similar to a PIV, except that it extends horizontally through the wall with the target and valve operating nut on the outside of the building.
What are nonfire hazards?
unstable trees, animals, insects, extreme temperatures, electrified fences, electrical power lines, explosives, hazardous materials, rolling or falling debris, pits or shafts, and animal traps.
What are 3 other topographical factors influencing ground cover fire behavior?
1) Aspect 2) Local terrain features 3) Drainages (or other areas with wind-flow restrictions)
What 5 factors affect the burning characteristics of ground cover fuels?
1) Fuel Size: small or light fuels burn faster than heavier ones. 2) Compactness: tightly compacted fuels burn slower than those that are loosely piled. 3) Continuity: when fuels are close together, the fire spreads faster because of heat transfer. In patchy fuels (those growing in clumps), the rate of spread is less predictable than in continuous fuels. 4) Volume: the amount of fuel present in a given area (its volume) influences the fire's intensity and the amount of water needed to achieve extinguishment. 5) Fuel moisture content: fuels that contain less moisture ignite more easily and burn with greater intensity (amount of heat produced) than those with a higher moisture content.
What are the 4 types of indicating control valves?
1) Outside screw and yoke (OS&Y) valve 2) Post indicator valve (PIV) 3) Wall Post indicator valve (WPIV) 4) Post indicator valve assembly (PIVA)
In order to determine which doors and openings must be kept closed and where to locate ventilation fans, what 4 things should you be aware of?
1) arrangement of the building 2) potential flow path(s) of fresh air to the fire 3) location of the fire 4) planned or ongoing tactical ventilation
How can you control fuel leaks?
1) broken fuel line may be: - crimped with pliers - plugged with rubber, plastic, or wooden plugs 2) broken or punctured fuel tanks may be: - plugged with rubber, plastic, or wooden plugs - sealed with a fuel resistant sealing compound.
On what 4 ways can the fire be controlled before the hood can be opened during an engine compartment fire?
1) direct a hose stream through the grill or air scoop 2) drive a piercing nozzle through the hood, fenders, or wheel wells. This is not a safe tactic for hybrid or electric vehicles. 3) make or cut an opening large enough for a hose stream to be introduced. 4) use a pry tool to create an opening between the hood and the fender, and then direct a straight stream or narrow fog stream in the opening.
What 4 actions are consistent with removing exposures?
1) evacuating persons who are in the path of the fire 2) relocating parked vehicles or railroad cars 3) using forklifts or other heavy equipment to move piled storage 4) relocating fire apparatus when fast-moving fires have put them in danger.
What are 4 collapse hazards during basement fires?
1) fuel loading, especially the fuel load on the floor above the basement 2) age of exposed joists 3) hidden paths for fire in walls and ducts that could be exposed in basements 4) use of lightweight construction materials that are susceptible to rapid collapse.
When is removing a fuel from fires common/a normal tactic?
1) ground cover fires 2) exterior stacked material fires 3) vehicle fires 4) flammable liquid/gas fires
What 3 methods can be used where there is a fire in the undercarriage?
1) if there is a hazard in getting close to the vehicle, use a straight stream from a distance to reach under the vehicle. 2) if the vehicle is on a hard surface such as concrete or asphalt, direct the stream downward and allow the water to deflect up toward the underside of the vehicle. 3) open the hood and direct the stream through the engine compartment.
What 5 ways can basements be accessed through?
1) interior enclosed stairwells 2) exterior enclosed stairwells 3) exterior open stairwells 4) window wells 5) ground-level walk-in doors or windows.
What does cooling burning gases do?
1) limits or stops flaming combustion in the upper layer 2) slows the pyrolysis process of combustible materials 3) reduces radiant heat flux from the upper layer 4) reduces the potential for flashover
What 14 conditions specific to structural fire attack should be observed and communicated?
1) location and extent of the fire 2) changes in heat level 3) changes to fire behavior, spread, and growth, including signs of rapid fire development 4) hazards encountered 5) locations of safe havens and alternate exits 6) changes to structural stability 7) indications of ceiling/floor collapse such as ceiling burn-throughs or sagging floors 8) changes to the neutral plane in the structure (smoke lowering/smoke rising) 9) smoke color or change of smoke color 10) volume and behavior of smoke 11) locations where smoke is escaping the structure (under eaves, vented windows, around doors) 12) location of any victims or occupants 13) wind direction and strength 14) fire threat to exposures
What 6 things should be observed and communicated in regards to building utilities?
1) location of utility services: electric gas, and water meters 2) status of power to or within the structure (on or off) 3) damage to utilities: broken pipes, downed power lines, unauthorized modifications to utilities 4) presence and condition of fire department connections and/or fire suppression systems 5) presence and condition of standpipes 6) location of alternative utility sources (solar panels, LP gas tanks)
What are the 9 things that go into strategies and tactics used to suppress structure fires?
1) making entry 2) gas cooling 3) direct, indirect, and combination fire attacks 4) transitional attack 5) fires in upper levels of structure 6) attic fires and fires in void spaces 7) below ground structure fires 8) exposure protection 9) controlling building utilities
What are examples of alternative fuels?
1) natural gas (CNG and LNG) 2) Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) 3) Electric or hybrid electric 4) Ethanol/Methanol 5) Biodiesel 6) Hydrogen
What 4 things should be done before entering the building or fire area for the nozzle person on the hose?
1) open the nozzle fully to ensure adequate flow 2) check the pattern setting 3) ensure hose is kink free 4) bleed the air from the hoseline
what are the parts of a ground cover fire?
1) origin 2) head 3) finger 4) perimeter 5) heel 6) flanks 7) spot fire 8) islands 9) green 10) black
What 5 tools/equipment should interior fire attack crews carry?
1) portable radio 2) hand light 3) pike pole 4) thermal imager 5) forcible entry tools
What are the 7 basic procedures for attacking a fire in a vehicle?
1) position a hoseline between the burning vehicle and any exposures. 2) position for attack uphill of the fire to avoid standing in the path of leaking fuels running downhill. 3) attack the fire a 45-degree angle from the side of the vehicle to avoid the potential for injuries from exploding hydraulic or pneumatic struts. 4) extinguish any fire near the vehicle occupants first. 5) issue an "all clear" when all occupants get out of the vehicle. 6) extinguish any ground fire around or under the vehicle. 7) extinguish any fire remaining in or around the vehicle.
What are the 5 methods to access the hood or trunk of a car during a vehicle fire?
1) pry the hood or trunk free with a Halligan or crow bar. 2) remove the metal around the key or latch 3) attack from the side with an axe and lever the hood or trunk open 4) direct hose streams under the car 5) use a piercing nozzle to pierce the hood or trunk.
What are 9 pre-entry considerations critical to firefighters safety and effectiveness?
1) reading fire behavior indicators 2) understanding the crew's tactical assignment 3) identifying potential emergency escape routes (other doors, windows) 4) evaluating forcible entry requirements 5) identifying hazards (overhead wires, structural instability) 6) verifying that radios are receiving and transmitting on the correct channel 7) ensuring that self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is on, cylinder is full, and operating properly 8) ensuring that all Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) devices are on and operating properly. 9) doing a buddy check to ensure other team members are prepared to enter the structure.
What can residential basements be used as what 5 things?
1) self-contained living quarters 2) entertainment rooms 3) utility spaces for: - storage - heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning equipment (HVAC) - water heaters - coal or fuel oil storage - workshops or hobby rooms 4) garages 5) storm shelters
How can a fuel source be removed?
1) stopping the flow of a liquid fuel 2) closing valves to stop the emission of gaseous fuels 3) moving solid fuels out of the path of the fire.
What 3 things can be done to control steam production?
1) use good nozzle technique 2) apply the appropriate amount of water 3) apply water using the most effective form (fog, straight, or solid stream based upon scene conditions).
What are some weather factors that influence ground cover fire behavior?
1) wind: fans the flames into greater intensity and supplies fresh air that speeds combustion and affects the rate and direction of fire spread; very large-sized fires create their own winds and/or weather systems. 2) temperature: closely related to relative humidity; primarily affects the fuels as a result of long-term drying. 3) temperature differences: wind usually moves from areas of high pressure and heat to areas of low pressure and cold. Large wildfires can sometimes create their own wind systems due to the increases in temperature difference. 4) relative humidity: significantly affects dead fuels that only gain moisture from surrounding air rather than their root system. 5) precipitation: largely determines the moisture content of live fuels. Dead fuels (those easily ignited) may dry quickly; large, dead fuels retain this moisture longer and burn slower.
A slow-moving, smoldering fire that burns dead organic matter on the soil in forested areas is called a _____ fire. a) crown b) surface c) flank d) ground
ANSWER: A
At what point should a firefighter close a sprinkler system's main control valve? a) Once the fire is under control and the IC gives the order b) Upon arrival at the structure c) Immediately prior to fire attack d) Once the pumper has been connected to the FDC
ANSWER: A
Biological waste and aerosol cans are hazards likely to be present in: a) trash container fires. b) below grade structure fires. c) above grade structure fires. d) storage shed fires.
ANSWER: A
Directing short bursts of water into the hot gas layer: a) will cool the gas layer and reduce the chances of the gases igniting. b) will create large amounts of steam that can burn firefighters in the area. c) is hazardous and should not be done. d) is a way to directly attack the fire.
ANSWER: A
Firefighters should ensure that PASS devices are on and operating properly: a) before entering the structure. b) once they reach the seat of the fire. c) before applying water to the fire. d) once they reach their "point of no return."
ANSWER: A
What factor has the biggest impact on a ground cover fire? a) Type of fuel b) Weather c) Time of day d) Topography
ANSWER: A
What is the first action that should be taken at a vehicle incident? a) Extricate the victims b) Extinguish the fire c) Establish scene safety d) Stabilize the vehicle
ANSWER: A
What is the purpose of a fire department connection (FDC)? a) Allows a pumper to supplement water supply and pressure to a building's sprinkler or standpipe system b) Acts as the connection point for attack hoses on each floor of a building with a standpipe system c) Enables firefighters to connect multiple attack hoses to one water supply d) Shuts off a building's automatic sprinkler system after suppression is complete
ANSWER: A
When should firefighters stop the flow of water from an automatic sprinkler system in a structure? a) After the fire is under control b) At any convenient time during fire attack c) After completing salvage operations d) Before entering the building for fire attack
ANSWER: A
Which method of fire suppression is rarely an option at a structure fire? a) Fuel removal b) Oxygen exclusion c) Chemical flame inhibition d) Temperature reduction
ANSWER: A
With regard to ground cover fires,: a) the more moisture a fuel contains, the more intensely it will burn. b) the fire will spread more quickly when it can jump between patches of fuels that are spread apart. c) tightly compacted fuels burn slower than loosely piled fuels. d) heavy fuels burn faster than light fuels.
ANSWER: A
At a structure fire, a Fire Fighter I: a) should know how to turn utilities back on once it is safe to do so. b) must know the location of utility control valves and switches. c) will determine when to shut down the building utilities. d) cannot be involved with electrical or gas utilities at all.
ANSWER: B
During ground cover fire fighting operations, if an oil well or a pipeline is broken and exposed to fire, firefighters should: a) treat the situation like a hazardous materials incident and withdraw. b) apply water from a distance using a master stream device. c) apply Class A or B foam to any burning fuels. d) treat the situation like any other ground cover fire incident.
ANSWER: B
Extinguish any fire near the _____ first when attacking a vehicle fire. a) gas tank b) occupants c) engine compartment d) windshield
ANSWER: B
Extinguishing agents such as _____ interrupt or inhibit the combustion reaction and stop chemical flame production. a) water b) clean agents c) Class A foam d) carbon dioxide (CO2)
ANSWER: B
The part of a ground cover fire opposite the head that usually burns slowly and quietly is called the: a) flank. b) heel. c) origin. d) black.
ANSWER: B
What part of a ground cover fire spreads the most rapidly and usually does the most damage? a) Finger b) Head c) Origin d) Flank
ANSWER: B
When firefighters apply water to the hot gas layer in a compartment, it will: a) increase the radiant heat flux from the upper layer. b) increase the potential for flashover. c) reduce the radiant heat flux from the upper layer. d) push fire into adjacent rooms.
ANSWER: B
When turning off the natural gas supply to a structure,: a) close the valve by turning the tang until it is directly in line with the pipe. b) close the valve by turning the tang until it is 90 degrees to the pipe. c) a second firefighter must be standing by in case a hazardous situation arises. d) call the gas company and wait for them to arrive before attempting to close the valve.
ANSWER: B
Which hazard is a concern when fighting fires in exterior stacked or piled Class A materials? a) Backdraft b) Collapse c) Flashover d) Electrocution
ANSWER: B
Which is a component of the LCES technique for situational awareness at ground cover fires? a) SCBA b) Communications c) Lightning d) Exposures
ANSWER: B
Which method of fire attack involves applying water onto burning fuels using a solid or straight stream? a) Transitional attack b) Direct attack c) Indirect attack d) Combination attack
ANSWER: B
Which type of alternative vehicle fuel is colorless, odorless, and has an invisible flame during the day? a) Biodiesel b) Hydrogen c) CNG d) LNG
ANSWER: B
If a firefighter uses a Z pattern to apply water to the hot gas layer and then the burning fuels at the floor level, he or she is using a(an) _____ fire attack. a) indirect b) direct c) combination d) transitional
ANSWER: C
If there is a fire in the trunk of a car, the first step is to: a) cut out the lid of the trunk using a power saw. b) use hydraulic tools to pry open the trunk. c) try to open the trunk using the release lever. d) use a piercing nozzle to apply water to the fire.
ANSWER: C
In a building that is protected by control mode sprinklers, firefighters need to: a) turn the system off before entering the building. b) stay back and allow the sprinklers to put out the fire. c) complete suppression before turning off the system. d) perform fire attack from outside the fire compartment.
ANSWER: C
Patches of unburned fuel inside the perimeter of a ground cover fire are called: a) greens. b) flanks. c) islands. d) fingers.
ANSWER: C
Preventing fire from spreading to unaffected areas or buildings is referred to as: a) transitional attack. b) overhaul. c) exposure protection. d) salvage.
ANSWER: C
What can happen if excess steam is produced inside the structure as a result of applying water on the fire? a) Increase in the potential for backdraft or flashover b) Pyrolysis process speeds up c) Disruption of the thermal layering d) Transition from fuel-limited to ventilation-limited conditions
ANSWER: C
What hazard do solar panels present to firefighters? a) Directing water at a solar panel will generate a large amount of steam. b) Directing water at a solar panel will cause it to release gases that can cause immediate harm. c) Panels may still generate power after the main power supply is shut off. d) They are prone to spontaneous ignition and will explode without warning.
ANSWER: C
What is the primary goal when attacking fire in exterior stacked or piled Class A materials? a) Allow the fire to burn itself out b) Prevent monetary loss by salvaging as much of the material as possible c) Contain the fire and protect exposures d) Prevent property damage by using as little water as possible
ANSWER: C
What is the purpose of creating a fire line at a ground cover fire? a) Provides a scene boundary to keep out bystanders b) Transitions the fire from fuel-limited to ventilation-limited c) Creates a fire stop after fuels are removed d) Acts as a meeting location for personnel
ANSWER: C
When attacking a passenger vehicle fire,: a) firefighters should approach from downhill and downwind. b) firefighters should extinguish fire in the engine compartment first. c) a backup hoseline should be deployed as quickly as possible. d_ a 2½-inch (65 mm) or larger hoseline is required.
ANSWER: C
When attacking a vehicle fire, crews should: a) attempt to use a fire extinguisher before using a hoseline. b) approach from downhill and downwind of the fire. c) approach at a 45-degree angle from the side of the vehicle. d) extinguish fire in the trunk compartment first.
ANSWER: C
Which hazard is associated with a hybrid electric vehicle that is on fire? a) Flammable air bags b) Invisible flames c) Toxic fumes d) Fuel tanks that rupture easily
ANSWER: C
Which statement describes a safety guideline for operations at a multistory building? a) If the structure does not have a standpipe, firefighters must avoid using the stairwell nearest to the fire. b) If the standpipe is in a protected stairwell, the hose must be connected on the floor above the fire. c) Firefighters must not use an elevator to get to the fire floor. d) Firefighters must not connect the hose to the standpipe on the fire floor.
ANSWER: C
Which type of alternative vehicle fuel has a flame that is invisible during the day and should be allowed to burn itself out? a) Liquefied natural gas b) Compressed natural gas c) Hydrogen d) Biodiesel
ANSWER: C
Who is in charge of turning building utilities back on after fire fighting operations are complete? a) Incident Commander b) Fire Fighter I c) Utility company personnel d) Building owner or manager
ANSWER: C
Applying water to a fire is an example of: a) chemical flame inhibition. b) oxygen exclusion. c) fuel removal. d) temperature reduction.
ANSWER: D
Basement fires are especially dangerous because there is an increased risk of _____ due to unprotected floor assemblies. a) backdraft b) hazardous materials exposure c) flashover d) structural collapse
ANSWER: D
Before making entry into a structure fire, all personnel must: a) check the nozzle for pattern and flow. b) contact the IC to confirm orders for entry. c) perform a 360-degree size-up. d) ensure that their SCBA is full and functioning.
ANSWER: D
If there is a fire in the undercarriage of a vehicle,: a) firefighters should retreat and let the fire burn itself out. b) Class A foam should be used to extinguish the fire. c) a hazardous materials team must be called before approaching the vehicle. d) direct a stream at the ground to deflect water upward toward the underside of the vehicle until the fire is extinguished.
ANSWER: D
If you are positioned to make fire attack, which condition would be important to communicate to your supervisor or the Incident Commander? a) Amount of radiant heat felt by firefighters b) All team members' PASS devices are functioning c) Presence of bystanders at the perimeter d) Smoke that changes from gray to black
ANSWER: D
When attacking fire in a small unattached structure such as a storage shed,: a) Class A foam will not be effective. b) an interior attack should be used. c) Class A foam must be used instead of water. d) an exterior attack should be used
ANSWER: D
When fighting a vehicle fire, a piercing nozzle can safely be used to: a) combat fires in the wheel well of a hybrid vehicle. b) apply a foam layer over pools of spilled fuel. c) provide protection when advancing toward the vehicle. d) extinguish fire under the hood.
ANSWER: D
Which action would be performed when overhauling a vehicle fire? a) Setting up scene control devices b) Shutting down the vehicle's electrical system c) Stabilizing the vehicle d) Checking for hidden fires in the trunk
ANSWER: D
Which statement describes transitional attack? a) It is a suppression method that is only suitable to use with small unattached structures. b) Water is applied directly on the fire at first and then indirectly by banking it off the walls or ceiling. c) It is a suppression method that is only suitable to use with fuel-limited fires. d) Water is applied from the exterior first to transition the fire from ventilation-limited to fuel-limited.
ANSWER: D
Which tool or piece of equipment is commonly used to stop the flow of water from an activated sprinkler? a) Halligan tool b) Pike pole c) Spanner wrench d) Wooden wedges
ANSWER: D
Why is it dangerous to work below the hot gas layer without attempting to cool it? a) The smoke contains fuel, and it may ignite at any time. b) The hot gas layer can break open windows, creating ventilation issues. c) The hotter the gas layer is, the more toxic the fumes are. d) The hot gas layer will continue to raise and cause damage to the ceiling and floors above.
ANSWER: D
Why should firefighters be outside the fire compartment when making an indirect attack from the interior? a) The hose stream will not reach the target if it is inside the fire compartment. b) The fire compartment will not be large enough to conduct an effective indirect attack. c) Large volumes of water will make walking areas slippery and dangerous. d) A large volume of steam will be created.
ANSWER: D
What is the 3rd step in vehicle scene safety?
Before attacking the fire or commencing with extrication, isolate the vehicle from any ignition sources or eliminate the ignition source. Next, stabilize the vehicle (if safely possible), control any downed power lines, and address any additional hazards.
Where are commercial power lines located?
Commercial power companies provide electricity in urban, suburban, and rural areas. Electric lines connect structures to the main power grid. If the lines are above ground, they will run from the power company pole to a weather head and service mast (a metal pipe extending above the roof of the house) that extends down the side of the house to the electric meter box and shutoff.
Information about Electricity:
Electricity usually comes from a commercial power company or an alternative source such as solar panels, wind generators, or fuel-powered generators. In any case, electric service must be disconnected when there is a structure fire unless the IC, in consultation with the Incident Safety Officer (ISO) order otherwise. Power may be left on at larger structures with multiple breaker panels and electrical zones according to preincident surveys. In some cases, structures are total electric, meaning that electricity is the sole power source for light, heat, and cooking. In other cases, electricity only provides lighting while a form of gas provides hot water, heating, and cooking.
What is dangerous about fires involving solar panels?
Fires involving solar panels have increased hazard as the electrical current that the panel produces cannot not be effectively controlled. This current may travel back down the water stream and cause electrical shock to the hose team. Once the flames are extinguished, note that the damaged panel may still produce electricity. Pooling water can increase the potential for electrical shock. Damaged panels should only be removed by a trained electrician.
Definition of Post Indicator Valve (PIV):
Has a 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 locks to the valve housing.
What type of hoses do you use at a vehicle fire?
In most passenger vehicle fires, one or two 1 1/2- or 1 3/4-inch (38 mm to 45 mm) handlines can extinguish an automobile fire. For large vehicles, such as tractor trailers, larger handline (2 1/2-or 3-inch [65 mm or 77 mm]) may be necessary. It may be necessary to use defensive fire fighting techniques such as deploying unstaffed master steam devices and isolating and denying entry to the area.
What does limiting the fire's air supply do?
Limiting the fire's air supply can be a highly effective fire control action. The simplest example of this is when a building occupant closes the door to the fire room before leaving the building. This limits the air supply to the fire and can prevent flashover. Control of doors and windows into and within the structure can aid in controlling the flow path of oxygen to heated, fuel rich products of combustion.
What is the 2nd step in vehicle scene safety?
Once scene safety is established, focus on saving the vehicle occupants and extinguishing the fire. Determine if there are victims in the vehicle and if they require extrication. Determine if the vehicle is on fire or leaking fuel. Confirm the type of fuel and select the appropriate extinguishing agent.
When should the flow of the sprinkler system be stopped?
Once the fire has been brought under control in a protected structure, firefighters should stop the flow from any activated sprinklers to minimize water damage to the structure and its contents. Wooden edges, sprinkler tongs, and other devices can be used to stop the flow of water.
What is the control valve when it comes to fire suppression?
One means to stop the flow from activated sprinkler heads is to close the system's control valve.
What is the fire department connection (FDC)?
One of the first priorities at a fire in a protected structure is to connect the pumping apparatus to the fire department connection (FDC). FDCs allow a pumper to supplement the water supply and pressure in a structure's sprinkler or standpipe systems. Each FDC is labeled for the system and/or building zone that it serves.
Solar panels and electricity:
One solar panel can generate enough electicity to kill a person; therefore, solar panels and photovoltaic panels (PV panels) are marked with red warning labels. Most solar panel arrays have 2 shutoff switches, one on each side of the power inverter. There is also a shutoff switch on the electric meter. Closing any of these switches will shut off power inside the structure. But, it will not turn off the solar panel array. As long as there is any amount of natural or artificial light, the panel is always on and generating power. When performing tactical vertical ventilation on a roof with solar panels, completely avoid these panels.
Where do you find fire protection systems?
Protected structures feature a fire protection system such as an automatic sprinkler system and/or standpipe system. Fire protection systems can be found in residential and commercial structures.
When oxygen is reduced in a fire what does it do to the fire?
Reducing the oxygen available to the combustion process reduces a fire's growth and may result in extinguishment over time.
How are ground cover fuels typically categorized?
Subsurface/ground fuels, surface fuels, aerial fuels
Definition of Post Indicator Valve Assembly (PIVA):
The PIVA does not use a plate with words OPEN and SHUT as does a PIV. Instead, a PIVA uses 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. When the valve is closed, the disk aligns with the plate that surrounds it. Unlike the PIV or WPIV, the PIVA operates with a built-in crank.
Where is the control valve located?
The control valve is located between the sprinkler system and the main water supply and is used to shut down water supply to the entire system. The control valve is usually located directly under the sprinkler alarm valve, the dry-pipe or deluge valve, or outside the building near the sprinkler system it controls. Some systems are designed with sectional valves to shut down small areas or individual sprinklers. Sprinkler control valves are either secured in the open position with a chain and padlock or are electronically supervised to make sure they are not inadvertently closed.
What is the electric meter?
The electric meter is the primary location for shutting off power. If the lines are buried, the meter box and shutoff may be on the side of the pole where the line extends underground. In multifamily dwellings, meter boxes may be clustered together on the side of the building. In commercial, industrial, and institutional occupancies, preincident surveys should identify the location of the power connections.
What is the 1st step in vehicle scene safety?
The first action upon arrival at a vehicle accident is to decide if the incident scene will necessitate traffic being diverted and request assistance. Follow the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) or provincial/territorial Emergency Responders Traffic Management guidelines for protecting the scene from vehicular traffic in order to establish a safe working zone around the incident as described in chapter 1, introduction to the fire service and firefighter safety.
What is the only safe way to cut power to a structure?
The only safe way to cut all power to a structure is at the main breaker or meter shutoff. When shutting off the power, pull down the handle on the side of the meter box. In a residential structure, you can also shut off the main circuit breakers and cut power to the structure. However, turning off individual circuit breakers will not cut all the power off and may not isolate the area where the fire occurred. If neither method is successful or if the main breaker is inaccessible, take no further action. Instead, contact the electric utility and request a technician respond to the scene.
When do you use the clean agents method (dry chemicals, halogenated agents [Halons], and Halon-replacement)?
This method of extinguishment is effective on flaming (gas phase) fires. These agents do not easily extinguish non-flaming (condensed phase) fires because there is no effective means to cool the fuel and stop the chemical chain reaction.
When approaching a vehicle, what should you avoid?
When approaching the vehicle, avoid components that are under constant pressure such as bumpers and sometimes hoods and trunk lids. These components incorporate hydraulic or pneumatic struts intended to absorb the shock of minor collisions. If the fire heats these struts, they can explode and catapult the bumper. Likewise, the struts used to support the engine hood and trunk lid can also be launched from the vehicle with tremendous force.
What is another example of fuel removal?
allowing a fire to burn until all available fuel is consumed while firefighters protect exposures.
Definition of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG):
any of several petroleum products, such as propane or butane, stored under pressure as a liquid.
Definition of Interior Exposure:
areas of a fire building that are not involved in fire but that are connected to the fire area in such a manner that may facilitate fire spread through any available openings.
Definition of Flank Attack:
attacking a fire on the flanks or sides of a wildland fire and working along the fire edge toward the head of the fire.
Definition of Lockout/Tagout Device:
device used to secure a machine's power switches, in order to prevent accidental re-start of the machine.
Definition of Gas Cooling:
directing water into the hot gas layer to reduce the heat release rate in a compartment.
Definition of Combination Attack:
extinguishing a fire by using both a direct and an indirect attack; this method combines the steam-generating technique of a ceiling level attack with an attack on the burning materials near floor level.
Definition of Local terrain features:
features such as canyons, ridges, ravines, and even large rock outcroppings may alter air flow and cause turbulence or eddies, resulting in erratic fire behavior.
Definition of Transitional Attack:
fire attack from the exterior through a ventilation opening. The attack cools the fire compartment and helps transition the fire from ventilation-limited conditions to fuel-limited conditions.
Definition of Clean Agent:
fire suppression material that leaves little or no residue when used.
Definition of Shielded Fire:
fire that is located in a remote part of the structure or hidden from view by objects in the compartment.
How do you counteract the risk of a fire starting at an automobile accident?
firefighters should provide flash fire protection to protect victims and rescuers. Some jurisdictions require at least 2 personnel on scene in full PPE and SCBA equipped with a charged hoseline. Other jurisdictions require one or two personnel in full PPE and SCBA equipped with fire extinguishers. The firefighters should monitor the scene for any indication of fire and be prepared to extinguish one.
what is the spot fire part of a ground cover fire?
flying sparks or embers landing outside the main fire cause spot fires. spot fires present a hazard to personnel (and equipment) working on the main fire because they could become trapped between the two fires. spot fires must be extinguished quickly or they will form a new head and continue to grow in size.
Definition of Class A Foam:
foam specially designed for use on Class A combustibles. Class A foams are becoming increasingly popular for use in wildland and structural firefighting.
Definition of Outside Screw and Yoke (OS&Y) Valve:
has a yoke on the outside with a threaded screw that opens and closes the gate inside the valve housing. The threaded portion of the screw is visible beyond the yoke only when the valve is open.
what is the heel of a ground cover fire?
heel or rear, of a ground cover fire is the side opposite the head. because the heel usually burns downhill or against the wind, it burns slowly and quietly and is easier to control than the head.
Definition of Indirect Attack (Structural):
in structural firefighting, a form of fire attack that involves directing fire streams toward the ceiling of a compartment in order to generate a large amount of steam in order to cool the compartment.
Definition of Direct Attack (Structural):
in structural firefighting, an attack method that involves the discharge of water or a foam stream directly onto the burning fuel.
Definition of Direct Attack (Ground Cover):
in wildland fire fighting, an operation where action is taken directly on burning fuels by applying an extinguishing agent to the edge of the fire or close to it.
Definition of Indirect Attack (Ground Cover):
in wildland firefighting, a method of controlling a fire in which a control line is constructed or located some distance from the edge of the main fire, and the fuel between the two points is burned.
Definition of Fire Lines:
in wildland firefighting, part of a control line that is scraped or dug to mineral soil; also, a general term for the area where firefighting activities are taking place.
What are automatic sprinkler systems designed to do/for?
increase the survivability of occupants and firefighters during a structure fire.
What should firefighters be aware of when it comes to alternative energy sources?
installations of alternative emergency power capabilities such as solar panel arrays, wind turbines, or liquid/gas-fueled generators. Where these sources are present, removing the meter or turning off the master switch may not turn off the power.
what is the origin in a ground cover fire?
is the area where the fire started and the point from which it spreads.
Definition of Incident Safety Officer (ISO):
member of the command staff responsible for monitoring and assessing safety hazards and unsafe conditions during an incident, and developing measures for ensuring personnel safety. The ISO enforces all applicable safety laws and regulations that departmental safety-related SOPs. On very small incidents, the incident commander may act as the ISO.
Definition of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG):
natural gas cooled to a liquid state and then stored under pressure.
Definition of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG):
natural gas that is stored in a vessel at high pressure, usually between 2,400 to 3,600 psi (16,800 kPa to 25,200 kPa).
What are surface fuels?
needles, duff, twigs, grass, field crops, brush up to 6 feet (2 m) in height, downed limbs, logging slash, and small trees on or immediately adjacent to the surface of the ground.
What is an island part of a ground cover fire?
patches of unburned fuel inside the fire perimeter are called islands. Because they are unburned potential fuels for more fire, they must be patrolled frequently and checked for spot fires.
Definition of Topography:
physical configuration of the land or terrain; often depicted using contour lines.
Definition of Anchor Point:
point from which a fire line is begun; usually a natural or man-made barrier that prevents fire spread and the possibility of the crew being "flanked" while constructing the fire line. Examples include lakes, ponds, streams, roads, earlier burns, rockslides, and cliffs.
What can excess steam cause?
reduce visibility, increase the chances fo steam burns, and disrupt the thermal layer.
What are subsurface or ground fuels?
roots, peat, and other partially decomposed organic matter that lie just under the ground.
What are aerial fuels?
suspended and upright fuels (brush over 6 feet [2 m], leaves and needles on tree limbs, branches, hanging moss) physically separated from the ground's surface (and sometimes from each other) to the extent that air can circulate freely between them and the ground.
what is the green part of a ground cover fire?
the area of unburned fuels next to the involved area is called the green. the green area of a ground cover fire should not be confused the the green zone often indicated at hazardous materials incidents or fire scenes. Green at ground cover fires is simply the opposite of the burned area (the black) and does not indicate that the area is safe.
Definition of Aspect:
the compass direction a slope faces (aspect) determines the effects of solar heating. In North America, full southern exposures receive more of the sun's direct rays and therefore more heat. Ground cover fires typically burn faster on southern exposures.
What is the most likely approach to the exterior exposure protection?
the most likely approach to exterior exposure protection is using water spray or foam extinguishing agents to place a protective cover on the exposure, especially if the exposure is an adjacent structure. This spray keeps the exposed surface cool, limiting the effect of radiated heat on the exposure.
What is the black part of the ground cover fire?
the opposite of the green, the black is the area in which the fire has consumed or "blackened" the fuels. the black can be relatively safe area during a fire but is often hot and smoky.
What is the perimeter in a ground cover fire?
the outer boundary, or the distance around the outside edge, of the burning or burned area. it will continue to grow until the fire is suppressed. also commonly called the fire edge.
What is the head in a ground cover fire?
the part of a ground cover fire that spreads most rapidly. the head is usually found on the opposite side of the fire from the area of origin and in the direction toward which the wind is blowing. the head burns intensely and usually does the most damage. usually, the key to controlling the fire is to control the head and prevent the formation of a new head.
what is the flanks of a ground cover fire?
the sides of a ground cover fire, roughly parallel to the main direction of fire spread. the right and left flanks separate the head from the heel. it is from these flanks that fingers can form. a shift in wind direction can change a flank into a head.
Definition of Drainage (or other areas with wind-flow restrictions):
these steep ravines are terrain features that create turbulent updrafts causing a chimney effect. Wind movement can be critical in chutes (narrow V-shaped ravines) and saddles (depression between two adjacent hilltops). Fires in these areas can spread at an extremely fast rate, even in the absence of winds, and are potentially very dangerous.
What is the finger in a ground cover fire?
they are long narrow strips of fire extending from the main fire. they usually occur when the fire burns into an area that has light fuel and patches of heavy fuel. light fuel burns faster than the heavy fuel, which gives the finger effect. when not controlled, these fingers can form new heads.
