Chapter 17 - Fire Control (MINE)

RECEO-VS

Rescue Exposures Confinement Extinguishment Overhaul Ventilation Salvage

Utilities

These may be assigned to you by the IC to turn off to limit damage and control fire. It is not your responsibility to turn them back on. That is done by the utility provide once it is determined to be safe and can be put back in service.

Elevated Master Streams

These types of master streams are used to apply water at upper stories of multistory buildings as fire attack or water supply for landlines. They can also provide exposure protection to endangered structures. Aerial apparatus can deliver these devices.

Small Unattached Structures

A fire occurring in these types of structures range from storage sheds to outhouses, pump/bath houses, and fishing/ice houses. Their age, construction, and value will all range as well. Fires should be attacked from the exterior. Unless there is an overwhelming reason to save the structure, the mission is to prevent fire spread to exposures and then extinguish. Class A foam and fog streams can be effective for exposure protection and extinguishment. These structures are generally used for storage so you should assume chemicals, flammable liquids, explosives, or illegal materials may be inside the building. Look for volume and color of smoke for this indication. Water should be applied through a straight stream to protect exposures and allow the structure to self-extinguish.

Stacked/Piled Material Fires

A fire occurring in this situation can be found in all types of occupancies and jurisdictions including: raw materials found at sawmills, lumberyards, and manufacturing facilities, bales of used cardboard or pallets at retail outlets, miscellaneous and varied materials store outdoors at residencies, bales or large rolls of hay on farms, loose flammable materials like mulch/fertilizer. The value of these materials vary and the possibility of salvage is small. Greatest dangers are to the exposures. Goal is to confine fire to the pile or building of origin. Fire streams should be directed at extreme edge of the fire to control spread. Use a straight stream from distance and then shift to fog. As the fire is reduced, move nozzle closer to material using fog to protect yourself. Other personnel can use pike poles and hay hooks to pull material apart so that the stream can reach all burning material. Embers may also spread fire. Class A foam applied with an educator or through a compressed-air foam system is effective for these types of fires.

Strategy and Coordination of Resources

Depending on the fire scene conditions, the IC will determine this for controlling a fire. These are based on the three priorities: life safety, incident stabilization, and property conservation. IC will make a risk/benefit analysis to determine if lives can be saved at the risk of FFs. Must decide if the risk will provide a positive outcome such as saving lives. This will dictate offensive or defensive action.

Flammable Gas Incidents

Distribution systems for this type of fuel consists of a vast network of surface and subsurface pipes. Pressures range from 1,000 to 0.25 psi at the point of use. Pressure below 50psi is usually in local distribution piping. It may be compressed stored, and shipped in cylinders marked. Can also be stored as a liquid and is subject to BLEVE. Excavation equipment breaking these pipes are usually the most common cause of these incidents. Contact utility company immediately. Approach apparatus uphill/upwind. Wear full PPE and be prepared for an explosion and fire. First concerns are evacuation of area around break, downwind and elimination of ignition sources. Check surrounding buildings for odor of gas inside. If gas is burning, flame should not be extinguished. Hose streams can be used to protect exposures. Shutoff of supply should be made and a HAZMAT team should be requested.

Resource Coordination

During interior fire attack, coordination between different operations (forcible entry, search/rescue, ventilation, utility control) is crucial. Interior and exterior FFs should work as a team under the direction of a supervisor.

Trash Container Fires

Fires in these may be as small as a garbage can or a large-capacity dumpster. Toxic products of combustion will be present so wear full PPE and SCBA. It may include: hazardous materials or plastics emitting high toxic smoke and gases, aerosol cans/batteries that may explode when exposed to heat, biological waste in marked/unmarked containers. Once the fire is controlled, it may be possible to use standard overhaul techniques to complete extinguishment. Class A foam may also be advantageous. Water may be used but may present problems if the water used to fill the container becomes contaminated with a hazardous substance.

Electrical Emergency Guidelines

First guideline for these types of emergencies is to assume all electrical wires/equipment/devices are energized until proven otherwise. Others include: establish exclusion zone equal to distance between power poles in all directions from downed lines, be aware of short circuit weakening other wires, wear full PPE and use tested tools, guard against shocks/burns/eye injuries from arcs, wait for utility company to cut lines, use lockout/tagout devices, stay at least 10' away from power lines when raising or lowering ground ladders/aerials, do not touch any vehicle or apparatus in contact with wires, do not use sold/straight streams on fires on electrical equipment, use fog streams with at least 100 psi, be aware of live wires outside your field of view in contact with fences, heed any tingling sensation felt in feet and back away, maintain large safety zone around downed wires, remain inside a vehicle/apparatus that is in contact with lines and if you must leave, jump clear of apparatus and land with feet together. Ground gradient: an electrical behavior that produces pulses in the ground starting at the point where the line contacts the earth and expanding out in circles. IF you find yourself feeling a tingling sensation, hop with feet close together until out of the area. Walking out can place you in between gradient ripples with different voltages that can be fatal. Distances to hop can be upwards of 150'. Firefighting boots are designed to meet NFPA 1971 requiring them to provide a certain level of protection from shock. The level will diminish over time with wear.

Bulk Transport Vehicle Fires

Follow preincident plans for transportation emergencies to reduce life loss, property damage, and environmental pollution. Techniques for extinguishment for fires in vehicles transporting flammable fuels are similar in many ways to fires in flammable storage facilities. Differences include: increased life safety risks to FFs from traffic/passing motorists, reduced water supply, difficulty in identifying the products involved/containing spills and runoff, force of collisions can weaken/damage tanks and piping, instability of vehicles, location of the incident raising additional concerns for civilians many incidents are handled while traffic passes the scene at near-normal speeds. One lane of traffic should be closed during initial emergency ops. Avoid using road flares because of possible leaking fuels. One or more FFs trained in traffic control should be assigned to direct traffic when law enforcement isn't available. Watch for failure of tires as it could cause fuel loads to shift. Water supply limitations vary and it may be necessary to protect trapped victims with hose streams. Determine exact nature of cargo as soon as possible from bills of lading, manifests, placards, or drivers. If not available/cannot identify, contact shippers responsible for vehicle. FD is obligated to protect the environment as well. To prevent runoff, stem water drains should be blocked.

Ground Cover Fire Fuels

Fuels for this type of fire include: -subsurface: roots, peat, decomposed matter -surface: needles, duff, twigs, grass, crops, brush up to 6' in height, downed limbs, small trees -aerial fuels: suspended upright fuels, brush over 6', separated from ground surface Factors affecting the burning of fuels: -fuel size: small or light fuels burn faster -compactness: tight fuels burn slower -continuity: fire spreads faster to fuels close together -volume: amount of fuel present in a given area influences fire's intensity and water needed -fuel moisture content: less moisture makes easier ignition and intense burns

Ground Cover Fire Parts:

Ground cover fires have parts: -origin: area where fire first started -head: part that spreads most rapidly, usually found opposite side of origin in direction toward wind is blowing, does most damage -finger: narrow strips of fire extending from main fire, light/heavy fuel mix causes these, can form new heads -perimeter: outer boundary or distance around outside edge of burning area -heel: side opposite head, usually burns downhill/against wind -flanks: sides of the fire, roughly parallel t main fire spread, can form fingers -spot fire: caused by flying sparks or embers outside main fire, extinguish quickly -islands: patches of unburned fuel inside the perimeter -green: area of unburned fuels next to the involved areas -black: burned areas of fuel in the fire, can sometimes be safe but hot and smoky.

Fires in Properties Protected by Fixed Systems

Hazards particular to these systems that may harm FFs include: oxygen depletion following activation of carbon dioxide flooding systems, poor visibility, energized electrical equipment, toxic environments. SOPs used at these occupancies are usually contained in a preincident plan. Some specify procedures for each unit to follow according to conditions found. Building site plans are an integral part of the plan and affect FD ops.

Water as a Cooling Agent

In class B fires, water can be used to do this to protect exposures. Without foam, it is not effecting on lighter petroleum distillates (gas or kerosene or alcohols). Water applied in drops can absorb heat from fires in heavier oils such as raw crude and extinguish. It is most useful for protecting exposures. Streams should be applied so they form a protective water film on materials that might weaken or collapse such as metal tanks or support beams. Water on storage tanks should be applied above the level on contained liquid to achieve most efficient use

Undercarriage Fires

In this type of vehicle fire, there are three methods to use: - if there is a hazard in getting close to the vehicle, use a straight stream form a distance to reach under the vehicle - if the vehicle is on a hard surface like concrete or asphalt, direct the stream down and allow water to deflect up toward the underside of the vehicle - open the hood and direct the stream through the engine compartment

Attacking a Ground Cover Fire

Methods used to combat this type of fire revolve around perimeter control. Control lines can be established at burning edge, next to it, or a distance away. Objective is to establish a control line that completely encircles the fire with all fuel inside rendered harmless. Direct attack: this type of attack is action taken against the flames at its edge or parallel to it. Indirect attack: this type of attack is used at varying distances from the advancing fire. Anchor point is set, a line is constructed some distance from the fires edge and unburned fuel is allowed to self-extinguish. Used against fires too hot/fast/big for a direct attack. You can always switch from one type of attack to another. Size up must continue through a ground fire so that adjustments can be made.

Gas

Must have knowledge of hazards and procedures for controlling incidents involving natural and liquified petroleum products of this type. Many occupancies use this type of utility for cooking, heating, or industrial processes. Natural: purest form is methane with 5-15% flammable range. Lighter than air so it rises. Nontoxic but classified as an asphyxiant because it can displace normal breathing air in a confined space. Shutoff for this may be located near the foundation or on the easement near the property line. Can also be found in basement or mechanical space. Shutoff is an inline valve located on the owner supply side of the meter (between distribution and meter). To close use a spanner wrench or similar tool to turn the tang until it is 90˚ with the pipe to ensure it is off. Contact utility company when off. Not FD responsibility to turn back on. LPG: this is also known as bottled gas. Gas is stored in liquid state under pressure. Usually propane sometimes butane. 1.5 times heavier than air so it will sink. Explosive in concentrations from 1.5 to 10%. Supply can be shutoff by shutting tank valve. Leaks will produce a cloud of vapor that hugs the ground. Fog streams of at least 100gpm can be used to dissipate the cloud. Shutoff valve should be located at point where the supply line from the tank enters the structure. Similar to type used for natural or water supply. Control valve will also be located on tank. Do not turn back on.

Electrical Hazards

Need to be familiar with these to protect yourself. Shock can happen on high voltage equipment as well as in lower voltage residential areas. Controlling power also reduces danger of igniting adjacent combustibles or accidentally energizing electrical equipment. Consequences of these include: cardiac arrest, ventricular fibrillation, respiratory arrest, involuntary muscle contractions, paralysis, surface/internal burns, damage to joints, ultraviolet arc burns to eyes. Factors affecting serious of electrical shock include: path of electricity through the body, degree of skin resistance (wet vs dry), length of exposure, available current (amperage flow), available voltage (electromotive force), frequency (alternating or direct current [ac/dc])

Stopping Flow from a Sprinkler

Once a fire is under control, FFs should do this in order to minimize amount of water damage to a structure and contents. Wedges, sprinkler tongs, and other things can be used to do this.

Vehicle Fire Attack

Procedures for this are as follows: position hoseline between burning vehicle and any exposures, attack fire from a 45˚ angle to avoid potential injuries from exploding hydraulic or pneumatic struts, extinguish any fire near vehicle occupants first, issue an all clear when all occupants are out, extinguish any ground fire around/under the vehicle, extinguish any fire remaining in or around the vehicle. Hoselines should provide a minimum of 95 gym flow rate (1.5 or 1.75"). Booster hoses are not appropriate. Approach at 45˚ angle, uphill, upwind. Get a backup hose ready ASAP. Portable extinguishers can be used on some fires in the engine compartment or electrical system. Extinguishment is complete when flaming and smoldering combustion has ceased. If metal parts are being heated but aren't on fire, cool with water. If they are on fire, cool surrounding area and use Class D agents to extinguish the metal. HAZMAT teams may be needed for: large-capacity saddle fuel tanks, pressurized natural gas tanks, alternative fuel tanks, hazardous contents such as explosives or other hazardous materials, radioactive materials such as medical isotopes for med facilities, munitions, vehicles disguised to hide drug labs. Conduct overhaul as soon as fire is extinguished to check for extension and hidden fires. Other overhaul considerations include disconnecting the battery, securing air bags/side impact protection, and cooling fuel tanks and sealed components. Air bags can deploy from steering wheel/dashboard/doors.

Vehicle Size Up

This is the first action you should do upon arrival at a vehicle fire incident. Decide if incident will necessitate traffic diversion and request assistance. US DOT laws must be followed when setting up safe working zones. Determine if victims are inside that could require extrication. Determine if vehicle is on fire or leaking fuel. Use appropriate extinguishing agent. Avoid components under constant pressure like bumpers and maybe hoods/trunks. Struts at these components can explode under heat and send objects flying. Follow dept. SOPs for establishing scene protection and isolate the vehicle from any ignition sources or eliminate the ignition source. Stabilize the vehicle if possible, control possible downed lines, and other hazards. Defensive fire techniques may be required.

Situational Awareness

This must be applied to your environment at all times. It involves recognizing changes and predicting the effects they will have on your surroundings. Listening to concerns and observations of FFs with you. This depends on open communication among all members of the crew. Use this to make informed decisions but it is not used to debate or vote as the crew leader has final say.

Water

Shutting off this utility is necessary to prevent damage from broken pipes. Shutoff is located underground with the meter. Location will depend on distribution lines in the jurisdiction. Shutoff keys or pipe wrenches are used to turn the tang 90˚ to the pipe. Valve may also be locate in the structure. Use caution when touching pipes because electric sound wire may be connected to pipe in residential structures. Commercial structures have larger diameter supply lines than residential. Shutoff valve will have a larger tang. This requires a special water shutoff key that the FD may not have. Do not turn back on.

Indirect Attack

This type of attack is used when FFs are unable to enter a burning building or compartment because of the intense heat inside. It is made through a window or other opening, directing the stream toward the ceiling to cool the room. This method of attack produces large amounts of steam and must be coordinated with ventilation. It results in a uniform temperature from floor to ceiling with combined mix of smoke and steam but is sometimes the only method available until temps are reduced. To make this type of attack, use a fog stream through an opening at a ceiling where the temps are the highest. Hoselines can be advanced once the majority of the fire has been reduced and space has been ventilated.

Name the Incident and Establish ICP

The first arriving officer/FF should assume command by doing this, giving an initial report on conditions, and requesting additional resources. Combat command: this command involves the initial IC performing multiple tasks such as serving as IC, developing incident action plan, and performing active tasks such as advancing hose. Formal command: company officer remains at mobile radio in the apparatus, assigns tasks to unit personnel, communicates to other responding units, and expands the NIMS-ICS as needed by the complexity of the incident. They must also decide how to deploy the remainder of the unit by appointing one unit member to supervise the rest of the unit/provide a portable radio/make an assignment such as performing a search of scene, assign unit members to work under supervision of another company officer, use unit members to perform staff functions in support of command such as the ISO.

Safety Precautions at Class B Fires

The first precaution at these types of fires is to avoid staging in pools of fuel or runoff water contaminated with fuel floating on top. Protective clothing can absorb fuel in a wicking action which can cause skin irritation and even to the clothing catching on fire. Extreme danger occurs if the pool ignites. Benzene in petroleum products is a known carcinogen which poses health risks. PPE exposed should be removed from service until thoroughly cleaned according to manufacturers recommendations. Fires burning around relief valves or piping must not be extinguished until the leak is controlled. Unburned vapors are usually heavier than air and form pools or pockets of gas in low areas where they can ignite. Vehicles, smoking materials, electrical fixtures, and sparks from tools can provide an ignition source sufficient to ignite flammable liquid vapors. Increasing intensity of sound from a relief valve may indicate the vessel is overheating and rupture is imminent. Do not assume you can safely relieve excess pressures under sever fire conditions. If an enclosed container containing LPG is heated, liquid inside begins expanding. When the liquid reaches its boiling point, it begins to return to its gaseous state. The change from a liquid to a gas in the confined space begins to increase the internal pressure on the vessel. The release/vaporization of these liquids can result in BLEVE where the liquid must be above its boiling point. BLEVEs produce a violent explosion sending tank parts and a huge fireball into the air. This can occur from mechanical damage from flame impingement on the vapor space in the tank. Most common BLEVE cause is when flames contact the tank shell above the liquid level and when insufficient water is applied to keel the shell cool. Apply water to upper portions of tank from master streams. Foam is a good agent to use. Water can be used for cooling, mechanical tool., and crew protection.

Staffing Master Streams

The use of this device will require a minimum of two FFs. One FF can operate once it is in place unless it is used in a hazardous place. The FF can change direction when required and prevent pressure in hoselines from moving the device. The device can be anchored in position if it is too hazardous of an atmosphere.

Commercial High-Voltage Installations

These are contained in many commercial and industrial complexes having electrical equipment requiring current in excess of 600V such as transformers or large electric motors. Usually housed in vaults or fire-resistive rooms. Some use flammable coolants that are hazardous. Water should not be used to extinguish because of damage it could cause to equipment. Smoke in these fires may contain toxins from the equipment. Only enter these areas if trained in confined-space rescue. Wear full PPE, SCBA and a tag line. RIT teams are also required. Search with a clenched fist or back of hand to prevent reflex action of grabbing energized equipment. Decontaminate PPE afterward due to toxins in smoke.

Direct Attack

This type of attack on a fire using solid or straight stream uses water most efficiently on free-burning fires. Water is applied directly onto the burning fuels until extinguished. Another technique is to direct the stream onto the ceiling and walls which can slow or stop the pyrolysis process on the surfaces. Water should not be applied long enough to use thermal layering in the compartment. Steam produced will begin to condense causing smoke/heat to drop rapidly to the floor and move sluggishly after.

Non-Fire Hazards

These are other hazards encountered during ground cover fire ops. -unstable hazard trees: weakened by age or fire -animals: that have escaped fire and reptiles in caves/confined spaces -insects: nuisance more than hazard -electrified fences: all considered electric until proven otherwise -explosives: near military/construction sites, do not touch -hazardous materials: broken pipelines, oil wells, tanks, treat like HAZMAT incidents -rolling/falling debris: rocks, vegetation, can fall -pits or shafts: abandoned mines, pits, sink holes -traps: for animals in hunting areas lightning is another hazard that can start fires or kill FFs. Be aware of weather, do not stand under tall, isolated trees, stay away from open water, metal objects, equipment, and fences In forested areas, seek shelter in low ravines, drop to knees and put hands on knees if in an open area, do not lie flat. Majority of deaths come from heart failure.

Deploying Master Streams

These are usually deployed in situations where the fire is yieond the effectiveness off landlines or this is a need for fire streams in areas that are unsafe for FFs. Main uses include: direct fire attack, indirect fire attack, supplement handlines already attacking the fire from the exterior, provide exposure protection Proper placement of this is important. Position to apply effective stream especially when using a fog nozzle. Moving device requires it to be shut down. Moving can be time consuming and laborious. Angle stream so it enters the structure. Aim at an upward angle so it deflects off the ceiling making it diffuse into smaller drops that rain on fire. Place in location that allows it to cover most surface area of the building especially where large volume of fire and limited devices. This allows changing of stream direction. Can be effective for exposure protection as well. Direct stream at surface of structure facing fire. Strike surface with stream so it runs down the structure. Can also create a water curtain between fire and exposure. Effective for multiple surfaces like trees.

Commercial Basements and Subfloors

These areas may have similar construction to residential types but be more robust if the fuel load on the main floor is significant. Joists can be wood or heavy timber or concrete panels or metal usually designed to support a lot of weight due to higher building heights and machinery. Unprotected steel can elongate when exposed to 1000˚ temps or higher. Longer time in fire = more likely to fail. Standpipes may exist in stairwells leading to subfloors. Risk/benefit analysis is performed in the same way for a residential fire in this area. Preincident surveys will help as well as standpipes, vent paths, and breathing fire needed to influence tactics.

Transmission Lines and Equipment

These can be damaged during earthquakes, snow and ice storms, wind, tornadoes, hurricanes, or traffic accidents. They can start fires in grass/vegetation, on the exterior of structures or in vehicles. Cordon off a circle with radius equal to the distance between the power poles at the point of where the line touches the ground. Wait for fire to burn away from point of contact before attempting to extinguish. Notify responsible utility company. In transformers, fires are common. Older types have liquids containing polychlorinated biphenyls that are flammable and cancer causing. Assume all have this ever if they are of newer type until proven otherwise as they can contain up to 49ppm even if marked as containing no PCBs. Use dry chem or CO2 extinguishers to control fires at ground level. Allow pole top fires to burn until utility company comes.

Supplying Master Streams

These devices flow at a minimum of 350gpm. This can result in high friction loss. Not practical to supply this device with anything less than two 2.5" hoselines. A 3rd line can be added or large diameter supply line. Some can handle 4" or larger LDH. Operation of this device consumes large amounts of water that accumulates in structures. This absorbed water weight affects structural integrity and potential collapse can occur during overhaul or investigation. Since these are primarily used in defensive ops, it may be necessary to shut down other landlines to maintain effective streams from these devices.

Residential Basements

These exist in many communities and may be used as: self contained living quarters, entertainment rooms, utility spaces for storage/heating/water/coal, garages, storm shelters. Spaces may be finished or unfinished. If unfinished, joists may be exposed to fire allowing faster failure rates and may spread for longer time as they are generally unoccupied if unfinished. Partially/finished spaces may have a metal grid system to support drop in tiles that may add to fuel load.If these spaces are converted to living areas, this can create life safety hazards. Owners may not comply with window requirements. Other factors that contribute to fire in these areas include: fuel loading, age of exposed joists, hidden paths for fire in walls and ducts, use of lightweight construction. Size up is important because these are extremely dangerous types of fires with regards to collapse. Floor assemblies over these structures often collapse before FFs come on scene. Both FFs working on the floor above and those fighting the fire are at a heightened risk of floor collapse both during ops and after extinguishment. Sound the floor and use a TIC to determine if the floor is safe. Visual joist inspection is also necessary. These areas may be accessed through: interior/exterior enclosed stairwells, exterior open stairwells, window wells, and ground level walk in doors/windows. Enclosed stairwells act as a flow path for fire and can be very hazardous. Attack can be made through these or windows or any opening to this place. You must have enough hose to reach the base of the stairs as well as an additional 6-87 feet at the bottom to get through the door and out of the narrow area. A 1.5 or 1.75" hose may not provide enough cooling. Be aware of adding ventilation.

Ground Cover Fires

These fires are also known as wild land fires and can be as small as a backyard grass fire and as large as wildfires in mountain ranges. They can occur in vacant urban lots, parks, cemeteries, farm lands, forests. They include those in weeds, grass, field crops, brush, forests, and similar vegetation. Their causes include: lightning strikes, autoignition, volcanic activity, sparks from rockslides, arson, discarded smoking materials, campfires, sparks/ignition from machinery, electrical shorts in power lines. These fires are unconfined, have characteristics from fires in buildings. Three main influences are fuel, weather, topography. Weather is most significant. Burning can be rapid and continuous.

Protective Clothing and Equipment for Ground Cover Fires

When combating these fires, wear wild land fire protective clothing. Structural turnouts are inappropriate. PPE must meet NFPA 1977 standards. NFPA 1500 specifies minimum PPE required for these fires. Be equipped with: helmet with eye protection and neck shroud, flame retardant shirt and pants, protective footwear, gloves, fire shelter. Also have water and pack for extra gear. Also carry fusees, extra food, socks, etc.

Class B Fire Suppression

These fires involved flammable/combustible liquids and gases. Flammables have flash points less than 100˚F like gasoline and acetone and can be ignited without being preheated. Combustibles have flash points more than 100˚F like kerosene and vegetable oil and must be heated above their flash point to ignite. These liquids can be further divided into hydrocarbons (do not mix with water) and polar solvents (mix with solvents). These fires may begin as a spill or leak from a vehicle accident, natural disaster, or opened valve. Wind currents can spread vapors or gases so first action is to determine wind direction. After that: locate apparatus upwind and uphill, establish a perimeter, report current conditions to all responding units and comms center, evacuate any civilians, request a hazardous materials response company and remain outside the hot zone, establish a water supply and deploy attack lines as required.

Ten Standard Fire Fighting Orders

These orders were developed in 1957 by the USDA Forest Service of wild land FF deaths between 1937 and 1956. Violating any of these orders can result in fatality or serious injury. Orders are organized in a deliberate sequence and are guidelines to help FFs identify and avoid high risk situations. They are: 1. keep informed on fire weather conditions/forecasts 2. know what the fire is doing at all times 3. base all actions on current and expected fire behavior 4. identify escape routes and safety zones and make known 5. post lookouts when there is possible danger 6. be alert, keep calm, think clearly, act decisively 7. maintain prompt comms with forces, supervisor 8. give clear instructions and ensure they are understood 9. maintain control of forces at all times 10. fight fire aggressively, providing safety first

Underground Fires

These spaces include: transformer vaults, mechanical spaces, parking garages, tunnels, caves, sewers, storage tanks, trenches. The single most important face in safely operating at these emergencies is recognition of the inherent hazards of confined spaces. Electrical equipment should be intrinsically safe for use in flammable atmospheres. Atmospheric conditions to be expected include: oxygen deficients, flammable gases and vapors, toxic gases, extreme temps, explosive dusts, limited means of entry and egress, cave-ins or unstable support members, standing water or other liquids, utility hazards. Building supervisors may provide info on the fire, its location, and possible hazards. Preincident plans of existing confined spaces reduce guesswork and should referred to during ops. Be ready to implement prearranged hazard mitigation plans without delay. Plans include provisions for victim/rescuer protect, utility control and other physical hazards, coms, extinguishment, ventilation, and lighting. Command Post and staging must be established outside the hot zone because of the hazards in these areas. Staging should be near but not obstructing entrance. FFs not allowed to enter until an IAP has be developed. Safety officers must be stationed at confined space entrance to track personnel/equipment. FFs must also attack fires indirectly using penetrating nozzles, cellar nozzles, or distributors nozzles. FFs may tire more quickly due to difficulty in venting these areas. They must be relieved before they are out of air. Effective air management systems should be a part of the IAP.

Protected Structure

These structures feature some sort of fire protection system such as an automatic sprinkler system or standpipe system. These systems can be found in residential or commercial structures. Work with these systems to achieve fire control. Sprinklers increases survivability of occupants as well as FFs. Activated systems should not be shutoff before fire is under control and shutdown has been ordered by IC.

Nonwater Based Systems

These systems are often found in industrial occupancies such as coal fired power plants. Aircraft hangers are protected by wet chem systems and are also commonly found on large cargo vessels. These systems include carbon dioxide, clean agent, and dry/wet chem systems. When they activate, they fill the compartment with extinguishing agents (carbon dioxide and clean agent) or blanket the fire (dry and wet chem). Do not disturb the agents until the fire is extinguished. Attack hoses should be deployed and in position in the event that fires in adjacent Class A materials need to be extinguished.SCBAs should be worn when entering and working in areas where these agents have been used.

Underground Transmission Lines

These systems consist of conduits and vaults below ground. Explosions that occur when a fuse opens or a short circuit ignites accumulated gases are the most serious hazard presented by these things. Stay at least 300' away from the site and make sure the apparatus is not positioned over a utility access cover as they can be thrown upon explosion. Do not enter any electric utility vault until power has been shut off by utility personnel.

Ethanol/Methanol

These types of alternative fuels are gasoline blends. They are water-soluble, electrically-conductive, clear liquids that have a slight gasoline odor. These fires burn bright blue and may be hard to see during the day. Use a TI to see the flames and locate the fire. Over 50% of the tase sold in the US is an ethanol blend. These use the same fuel tanks as conventional gasoline engines. They will probably not have logos on the vehicles. If no fire or leak is visible, secure, chock and turn off ignition. If there is a leak, use caution and approach in full PPE and SCBA, with deployed and charged hoses. IF the vehicle is on fire, establish a control zone and use only Alcohol Resistant Class B foam such as Ar-AFFF. Request a HAZMAT team as well.

Class C Fire Suppression

These types of fire involved energized electrical equipment. Once de-energized, these fires can be handled fairly easily. They may also self-extinguish. They become Class A or B if they continue to burn once de-energized. Use Lockout/Tagout once power is turned off. These fires may occur in: electric power stations, commercial high voltage installations, telephone relay stations, photovoltaic arrays, electrical substations, railroad lines/yards with electrical engines, streetcar/subway tracks/stations, vehicle incidents with hybrid/electric vehicles, computer server rooms. Use clean extinguishing agents such as Halotron to prevent further damage to electronic equipment. Do not use water unless absolutely necessary from a safe distance with a fog stream. Voltage over 40V is dangerous. Similar suppression techniques are needed for fires involving transmission lines/equipment, underground lines, and alternative energy sources.

Vehicle Fire Suppression

These types of fires are among the most common. They may be result of collision, malfunction of propulsion system, or an intentional act. Take time for size up, provide crew protection, and wear full PPE. These fires generate a wide variety of toxic/nontoxic smoke and vapors. Treat same as you would a structure fire. Fuel sources include: gasoline, diesel, electricity, hybrids, compressed or liquefied natural gas, biofuels, hydrogen.

Class D Fire Suppression

These types of fires present the dual problem of burning at extremely high temps and being reactive to water. Hose streams directed at these fires can result in violent decomposition of the water and release of flammable hydrogen gas. Small chips are more reactive to water than large castings. Water is only effective for keeping nearby exposures below ignition temps in these fires. If an extinguishing agent for this type of fire is not available, FFs can simply protect exposures and allow the metal to burn itself out. Agents can however be manually shoveled or scooped onto the burning metal or with extinguishes to completely cover the burning metal. These fires emit a brilliant white light that diminishes only when an ash layer covers the burning material. Even though this layer may form, the fire may not be out. It may be an extended amount of time before the surfaces have cooled. These fires can range to temps greater than 2,000˚F even after appearing to be extinguished.

Water Based Systems

These types of systems include automatic sprinklers, standpipe systems, and foam systems. They depend on water from underground pipes or storage tanks to operate. FD pumpers deploy supply hoses from nearby hydrants and connect to the FDC to supplement water or to maintain constant pressure Auto Sprinklers: support personnel are often used to manage the systems operation. Possible actions include: connect pumper to FDC to supplement water supply and maintain constant pressure, assign a radio equipped FF to the sprinkler control valve to close/reopen as ordered, install wooden wedges or stops to halt flow of water from open sprinklers, replace open sprinklers to allow the system to be restored to normal, restore sprinkler to normal, motor building after fire has been extinguished and while waiting for owner to restore system Standpipe: permit FFs to deploy attack hoses on upper stories and in large area structures. Pumpers connect supply hoses and increase system pressure based on amount of friction loss that the height of the structure creates. Pumps may be on upper stories to maintain system pressure. Tasks include: connect pumper to FDC to supplement water supply and maintain pressure, determine location of fire, don full PPE and respiratory protection, take tools, hose, nozzle to standpipe outlet in stairwell below fire floor, connect hose to outlet and advance line up stairs to fire floor, charge hose, bleed air off line, adjust nozzle for pattern, advance hose onto fire floor and use attack method to extinguish. Foam: these systems are installed in locations where large quantities of combustible liquids are used including refineries, aircraft hangers, and auto paint booths. Systems include connections to FDCs or may be self-contained. When activated, critical that foam blanket not be disturbed. Additional foam can be added to the layer. Total flooding systems can be installed in hangers or transformer vaults where the entire compartment will be flooded. .

Passenger Compartment Fires

These types of vehicle fires in unoccupied vehicles requires the use of the most appropriate nozzle and pattern for the situation. Open door, if locked, break a window and attack fire with a medium fog pattern.

Alternative Fuel Vehicles

These types of vehicles use fuels that create different risks to emergency responders. During size up, look for indicators such as: vehicle logos, fuel-specific logos, special fuel ports, distinctive vehicle profiles. Theres no national requirement for markings to indicate the type of fuel used to power cars, trucks, and buses. Additional tactic to be considered include: park apparatus a minimum of 100' away, approach uphill/upwind, approach from a 45˚ angle, wear full PPE and SCBA, use nonsparking extrication tools, do not use flares, deploy a backup hoseline, select extinguishing agent specific to the type of fuel or battery pack.

RIT Teams

These units are tasked with locating and assisting FFs who have become trapped, lost, or incapacitated during structural fire fighting ops. They may be from any engine, ladder, or rescue company. IC or SOPs will establish number of crews needed at scene. Crews added as necessary if the incident escalates or number of operations increases. Each team consists of two or more members wearing complete PPE and respiratory protection. Equipped with radio, any special rescue tools needed, spare SCBA, and equipment necessary to perform rescue. They must be prepared to stop what they are doing at a scene and deploy immediately. Tasks performed are: staging equipment, sizing up building for paths of egress, complete 360˚ survey, removing barriers to egress, monitoring radio traffic, clearing windows, placing ladders, opening exits, illuminating building

Making Entry

This call will be made by the supervisor or IC. Attack hoses should be ready so to protect FFs, occupants, and property. Factors to be aware of include: wind direction/velocity, building conditions, initial fire location, location of occupants, exposures. Before doing this, every crew member should conduct a quick size up and maintain situational awareness. Size up begins before reaching entry point and may include visual observations and the use of a TIC. Size up should include: reading fire behavior indicators, understanding tactical assignment, identifying potential emergency escapes, evaluating forcible entry, identifying hazards, verifying radios are receiving and transmitting on the correct channel, ensure proper SCBA operation, ensure operation of PASS, ensure other team members are prepared by doing a buddy check. Tools must be carried when doing this such as radio, hand light, pike pole, TIC, forcible entry tools. Nozzle should be operated fully to ensure proper flow, open bale slightly while waiting for water to hasten the process. When this is about to happen, FFs should wait in a safe area near the building entrance where visible fires can be extinguished. Stay low during forcible entry. Check door for heat. Be aware of opening doors as it can increase the HRR. Observe smoke movement and air flow: fast indicates an active fire. Open door slightly with attack hose in place, apply water to hot gas, wait 5-10 seconds to observe before entering. Maintain door control once opened with rope or webbing. Chock it to prevent from closing on the hose. Guideline for years has been to "attack the fire from the unburned side". This has been disproved as of recent from the following factors: greater HRRs of modern building construction materials, increased effect of wind on fire expansion. Wind creates air flow patterns that increase fire development. Attack with wind to your back. IC should determine this through size up and 360 surveys.

Nothing Showing

This command is made when the problem generating the response is not obvious to the first-arriving unit. It should be broadcasted on the radio. IC should direct the other units to assume predetermined positions at the scene or stage at the last intersection in their route of travel. Staging in this way allows for a maximum of deployment flexibility and applies to all types of emergencies. The officer/FF will accompany unit personnel on an investigation of the incident.

Fast Attack

This command over the radio is made when the officer or FFs direct involvement is necessary for the unit to take immediate action to save a life or stabilize a situation. Personnel will continue this, usually lasting only a short time, until one of the following occurs: incident is stabilized, incident is not stabilized but officer must withdraw to establish formal IC post, command is transferred. Balance of the unit may be left inside the hazardous area when they can function safely and effectively and have radio comms. Under no circumstances may fewer than two responders be left in the hazardous area. When only two are in the area and one must leave, both leave.

Ground Cover Fire Safety

When dealing with these types of fires, safety is a must. Safety is the first priority for civilians and FFs. Begins at size up. Size up info includes: fire location, type, incident access, exposures, weather conditions, wind directions/velocity, topography, visibility, resources (Water, personnel, apparatus/equipment). Situational awareness must be practiced in size up and after.

Exposure Protection

This involves preventing a fire from spreading to uninvolved areas. They may exist inside or outside a structure. It can take many forms depending on location and type and resources available. Interior: closing doors or other openings between fire and uninvolved areas and proper tactical venting. Passive forms include fire walls/doors. Be aware of building arrangement, fire location, and how to use venting which can help determine which doors/openings to close and fan locations. Exterior: remove the endangered persons, property, or items, or apply protective agent between fire and exposure. Removal of these is useful at fast moving fires if possible. This involves: evacuating persons in path of fire, relocating parked vehicles/railroad cars, using forklifts to move piled storage, relocating apparatus. Most likely approach is use off water spray or foam especially if the object is a structure. Spray limits radiant heat.

Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, Safety Zones (LCES)

This is a concept of ground cover fire safety. This is developed for large-scale wild land fires. it can be used on any size ground cover fire though. Lookouts monitor spread of fire development. Watch for rekindles, keep IC informed. Placed at locations that can observe the fire without being in front of it. Some jurisdiction use airborne lookouts. Communication is an essential part of ground cover ops. It is used from fire crews, support personnel, and members of staffing to the IC and from the IC to every other unit operating at the incident. This can prevent personnel from being trapped by changes in fire behavior and weather. Units operating near the fire line must work from the burned side and always have an escape route available. An escape route is a marked path that leads to a safety zone and is short enough to allow personnel to travel to it safely. A change can cause a fire to ignite unburned or partially burned materials behind fire line crews. Safety zones must be available in the burned area if it is sufficiently cooled and accessible. Both these and escape routes ensure FFs will not be trapped if there is a change in fire behavior.

Shutting Control Valve

This is a means of stopping water flow from activated sprinkler heads. The valve is located between sprinkler system and mains ater supply. Usually located immediately under the sprinkler alarm valve, dry pipe or deluge valve, or outside the building near the sprinkler system controls. Some systems can shut down sections of it. Can be controlled electronically or with a chain/padlock combo. This should only be done once the fire has been brought under control and order given by IC. FF should be stationed at closed valve so that it can be reopened if necessary. Valves are typically indicating type as they indicate a glove whether they are open/closed. Types include: -OS&Y: yoke on outside with threaded stem. Threaded portion is visible beyond the yoke when valve is open and not when closed -Post Indicator Valve: hollow metal post with OPEN/SHUT words indicating position, operating handle is locked when not in use -Wall post indicator valve: PIV except it extends horizontally through the wall with the target and valve operating nut on outside of building -Post Indicator valve assembly: does not use a plate with words but a circular disk inside a flat plate on top the valve housing. When open, disk is perpendicular to the surrounding plate, the closed, disk is in line with plate. Operated with a built in crank.

Defensive to Offensive Transition

This is a type of strategic transition. An example could be: the first arriving unit may need to deploy hoselines and begin with a defensive strategy until additional resources arrive or the fire has been extinguished to safe levels. Also used if not enough resources for the 2 in 2 out rule. FFs on scene can use fire streams to protect exposures and change to an offensive strategy once personnel, apparatus and adequate flow becomes available.

Hoseline Selection

This is dependent upon fire conditions and other factors such as: fire load/material involved, flow rate for extinguishment, stream reach needed, number of FFs available to advance, need for speed/mobility, tactical requirements, ease of hoseline deployment, potential fire spread, size of building/fire area, location of fire. Water is the most often agent used for extinguishment despite the use of other agents like dry chem, foam, or others. The selection of this is critical for efficiency and safety. Using a SDH may allow water to be applied sooner but the size may not provide a sufficient volume of water that a LDH would be able to provide. For interior ops, the area involved and the fire load should dictate the size of the hoses used. A hose no smaller than 1.5" should be used to provide sufficient water to cool the fire. Besides the primary line, a backup line is needed. It should be at least the same size and provide same fire flow as the attack hose. Fog nozzle is preferred because it will provide greatest protection for both teams. It performs these functions: -protect attack hose team from extreme fire -protect means of egress for attack team -provide additional fire suppression capability in the event the fire volume increases.

Gas Cooling

This is not a fire extinguishment method but is a way of reducing heat release from the hot gas layer. It is effective when faced with a shielded fire (one that is located in a remote part of the structure). The hot gas layer at the upper levels of the compartment can present problems as smoke is fuel and it can transition to rollover, flashover, or smoke explosion at any time. The hot smoke can radiate to furniture as well increasing pyrolysis and adding flammable fuel. Cooling the hot gas layer slows heat transfer and reduces the chances of ignition. This can be done by directing short bursts or pules of water fog into it. Direct the nozzle upward and quickly/smoothly open and close it. Length of pulse depends on the size of space, can be less than a second to much longer. Nozzle pattern may need to be adjusted based on fire conditions in the compartment and its configuration and size. Narrow hallways may restrict it, large areas may need to be increased. Reach of stream is important. Cool gas not ceiling. If water droplets fall out from overhead it means gases are cooled and you can stop. This should be repeated as necessary while the hose team advances under the gas layer to the fire.

Connecting to an FDC

This is one of the first priorities at a fire in a protected structure. Connecting a pumper to the fire department connection. These allow a pumper to supplement the water supply and pressure in a structure's sprinkler/standpipe systems. Each is labeled for the system or building zone it serves. Once order is given, locate connection, select appropriate supply hose, and make connection. Conduct preincident plans to identify location and size of FDCs.

Electricity

This must be disconnected when there is a fire in a structure. It can sometimes control all things from light, heat, and cooking while it may only provide lighting in other structures. Commercial Power: this is provided to urban, suburban, and rural areas. Lines may be above or buried. If above, they will run from the power pole to a weather head and service mast which extends to the box and shutoff. Meter is primary location for shutting off power. Multifamily dwelling meters may be clustered in one location. Preincident surveys may be done for large complexes to determine power connection. Pull handle down to shutoff. Meter is the only place to totally shut off power. IC will notify power co. when done. Do not shut off until ordered as power may be needed for elevators, air-handling equipment, etc. Lockout tagout the main power switch once power is shut off. Sometimes power should stay on to provide lighting, power for venting equipment, fire pumps, etc especially if fire is confined to only one small area of a building. Alternative Sources: Be aware of these such as turbines, solar panels, or liquid/gas fueled generators. Sometimes shutting off the switch doesn't kill power completely especially with solar panels. With turbines, turn off power with main shutoff but power line from turbine to meter will remain energized. Generators can simply be turned off at the meter box.

Chief Officer/Incident Commander

This person on scene may take responsibility for all on scene operations. If the original IC has the incident well organized, the chief may choose to assume another role in the IC structure. They can act as a liaison with technical experts, utility crews, amnd members of the media.

Biodiesel

This type of alternative fuel is a blend of liquids made from natural plants and diesel. It is a yellow liquid with the odor of cooking oil that is nontoxic, biodegradable, and sulfur free. Slightly yellower than water and has a flash point of 266˚F. It is used in any vehicle designed for diesel fuel and no logo is required. If there is a leak, control the leak per SOPs and request a HAZMAT team. If the vehicle is on fire, use dry chem, CO2, water fog spray, or foam to extinguish.

Hydrogen

This type of alternative fuel is used in some areas of NA though most are still considered in the concept state of development. This fuel is colorless, odorless, nontoxic and energy efficient. It has a self-ignition temp of 550˚F with a 4-75% flammable range. Flame is invisible during the day so use a TI to look for fire. Vehicles will be marked with a manufacturers logo and the vented fuel cell is in the trunk. If there is a leak/fire, shut off ignition, isolate the fuel from ignition sources, chock the wheels. Do not extinguish this type of fire. Instead, protect exposures and allow the fuel to burn off. If extrication is required, do not cost C-posts as they contain the vents.

Natural Gas

This type of alternative fuel is used in the form of compressed gas ad liquified gas. Properties include: clean burning, high ignition temp, narrow explosive range, nontoxic, noncorrosive, colorless/odorless in natural state, fighter than air, stored under pressure, visible flame. Currently, vehicles that have this include: gov agencies, taxi cab, utility, refuse, and mass transit bus companies. These vehicles may have a CNG/LNG diamond on them. Fuel tanks are usually located in the truck area, under side panels, or in the open bed of pickup trucks. Explosions can result. Pressure relief devices and vents and a fuel shutoff valve may be located in the wheel well with a placard nearby. CNG is stored under high pressure in a gaseous state. Tactics for fires or leaks include: if no fire is visible - use a gas detector to locate leaks, stay clear of detected vapor clouds; if fire is visible - allow fuel to burn itself out, use water/foam to extinguish if necessary, use fog stream to disperse vapor clouds, avoid contact with high velocity jet of escaping gas LNG is stored in a liquid state by cooling to -260˚F in double-walled vacuum insulated pressure tanks. Lighter than water and has vapor cloud heavier than air. Frost on the tank indicates failure. If no fire/leak, stabilize the vehicle, set E-brake or chock tires, turn off ignition, and shut off gas cylinder valve handle. Tactics include: avoid contact with LNG, stay clear of vapor clouds, shut off ignition to top the fuel flow to a leak or fire, use purple K dry chem agent or high expansion foam on the surface of a LNG fire, use sand or dirt to prevent LNG from entering storm drains.

Electric/Hybrid

This type of alternative fuel source in cars will have indicators such as a vehicle name/logo, charging port on the side or front, and a distinctive profile. Batteries may be located in the engine compartment, trunk, or under the vehicle. Engine may not make noise when running. Most contain a 12-volt battery system with separation battery and wiring harness. If no visible fire, secure the vehicle, chock wheels, turn off ignition, and remove the key. If smoke is visible, wear full PPE and SCBA in case of toxic fumes. Do not approach if the vehicle is on fire or there is arcing under the hood. Instead establish scene security and protect exposures. Avoid contact with fluids because they may contain battery acid. These vehicles may run solely on electricity in batteries that need to be recharged. These battery packs come in many designs. Use inertia switches and pilot circuits to shut off a high-voltage system. It will take 5 min. for energy to dissipate. Do not cut orange high-voltage cables. Blue and yellow cables also can cause electrocution but don't carry high-voltage. Wear full PPE, insulated tools, water or foam extinguishing agents when extinguishing fires on these types of vehicles. The other type of these vehicles combine battery electrical systems with gasoline, diesel, biodiesel, and natural gas to run the engine. Some use roof mounted photovoltaic panels as a power source. Water is the recommended agent.

Liquefied Petroleum Gas

This type of alternative fuel source is also known as propane. It is the third most common vehicle fuel type after gas a diesel. It is clean burning, safer than gas, colorless and odorless in natural state, and stored under pressure. It expands rapidly when heated. 1.5x for every 10˚ of increase in temp. Because it is stored in pressurized tanks, this rapid expansion creates conditions for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion when the tank is exposed to heat. A vehicle using this type of fuel may be marked with a logo. Tactics include: approach only from sides at 45˚ angle, use gas detectors to determine leaks and isolate leaks from ignition sources, allow the fire to self-extinguish, use foam or water when necessary for extinguishment, direct fire stream at the top of the LPG tank to provide cooling, stay clear of vapor clouds

Combination Attack

This type of attack combines cooling hot gas layers at the ceiling level indirectly and cooling burning fuels at floor level directly. Do this by moving the nozzle in a Z, inverted T or rotational manner. Be aware of unnecessary application of water as it can cause water damage. Applying water to smoke that is not heated can disrupt thermal layering which can decrease visibility if ventilation is not accomplished.

Fireground Support Company

This type of company is an aerial apparatus or rescue unit. If they have been dispatched, it may arrive before, with, or after the first engine company. The situation will dictate the tasks that these companies perform including any of the following: forcible entry, search/rescue, property conservation, ground/aerial ladder placement, ventilation, scene lighting, utility control, checking for fire extension, operating elevated fire streams, overhaul. When these companies aren't available, these tasks will be performed by other engine company personnel. They may be assigned to check outside of building for victims needing immediate rescue and raise ladders for rescue or roof access for venting. Teams may first search areas closest to the fire if doing so will not put them in risk of injury/death. Areas most likely to be inhabited or where victims are known to be trapped as well. Conduct searches systematically. Priorities are: areas most severely threatened, areas where largest number are threatened, remainder of fire area, exposures. These units may also assist engines in fire attack, forcing entry to move closer to fire, or can place ground ladders, set up lighting or other exterior functions. Blitz attacks (mater stream used to attack fire), can be set up but must be done in coordination with other operations to make sure fire doesn't spread to uninvolved areas, injure interior teams from steam. They can be used with ladders set up by this team from upper floors.

Ground Fire

This type of ground cover fire burn in the layer of dead organic matter that covers the soil in forested areas. They move slow, smolder that can go undetected for months before entering flaming stages. These fires are generally limited to forests and are very difficult to extinguish.

Crown Fire

This type of ground cover fire is also known as a canopy fire and are wind driven, high intensity fires. They move through tree tops and heavily forested areas. Causes are lightning strikes or extensions from ground or surface fires. The extensions are called ladder fires.

Surface Fire

This type of ground cover fire is the most common type and burns on the soil surface consuming low-lying grass, shrubs, and other vegetation. They can occur anywhere and can be natural or human caused.

Offensive to Defensive Transition

This type of strategic transition is the less common of the two. It occurs when a situation rapidly changes and the IC must make the decision to transition. In this transition, the IC will communicate the change then order a PAR from all personnel. Some units may need to remain in place to protect egress. Hoselines should not be abandoned unless absolutely necessary. RIT teams must be ready to assist any units in transition. When this happens you must: Use situational awareness to recognize changes in fire behavior and structural stability, know your departments evacuation signal, continue to monitor your radio for further orders, remain calm and follow orders, stay with your team, use hoseline to guide to the exit, use hose and nozzle to protect yourself during withdrawal, evacuate as quickly/safely as possible, respond to requests for PARs, know dept. SOPs on these strategies.

Defensive Strategy

This type of strategy is intended to isolate or stabilize an incident and keep it from expanding. In a structure fire, this may mean sacrificing a burning building to save adjacent buildings. Generally an exterior operation chosen because an interior attack is unsafe or resources are insufficient. This type of strategy usually is selected in one of the following factors: No threat to occupant life exists, occupants are not savable, property is not salvageable, sufficient resources are not available for an offensive strategy, danger of collapse, offensive strategy would endanger the lives of FFs because of hazardous scene conditions. Some of the conditions this may be selected include: -Excessive volume of fire: exceeds available resources to confine/extinguish including personnel, inadequate gpm flow, lack of appropriate apparatus -Structural deterioration: unsafe for entry -Risk outweighs benefits -Unfavorable wind conditions: prohibits safe entry due to potential high temp flow paths.

Offensive Strategy

This type of strategy used at a structure fire means deploying resources for interior tactical operations to accomplish incident priorities. An objective may be rescue or fire extinguishment, which can occur simultaneously as well. If someone is trapped, rescue becomes primary activity. Factors include: -value: life and safety hazards at the scene, savable lives, and/or salvageable property -time: to accomplish selected tactics, potential for collapse/structural stability, potential changes in fire conditions -size: tactical flow rates needed to control the fire, available resources, and fire conditions

Engine/Trunk Compartment Fire

This type of vehicle fire requires gaining access in order to extinguish. Try normal methods first and then use forcible entry techniques if they do not work. Cool the front and rear bumper struts to prevent accidental activation from heat. Entry can be made with manual or power tools. If fire must be controlled before opening the hood, use the following methods: direct hose stream through grill or air scoop, drive a piercing nozzle through the hood/fenders/wheel wells, make/cut openings large enough for hose stream introduction, use a pry tool to create an opening between hood/fender and then direct straight stream or narrow fog nozzle in opening.

First-Arriving Engine Company

This unit makes decisions and takes actions that determine the outcome of a fire. Actions expected are: establish command, make initial size up, deploy available resources, communicate situation to comm center and other units. If smoke/fire is visible, may be required to stop and lay supply lines from closest hydrant to scene. Officers may have an option of deploying lines or going directly to scene and initiating quick attack. Unit always conducts a rapid initial assessment of situation based on incident priorities, strategies, and tactics. Ask: occupants in need of immediate rescue?, fire threatens exposures?, what does visible flame/smoke indicate?, are only contents involved or is structure burning?, sufficient resources on scene/enroute to handle situation? Too little resources means more should be requested. Two in two out, followed unless there is a victim in need of immediate rescue, then one goes in one stays out. If no life safety concerns and an exposure is threatened, officer may deploy water to protect using a master stream or handling. Once size up is done, this unit will use tactics to accomplish the following: intervene between trapped occupants and fire, protect rescuers/primary means of egress/interior exposures/exterior exposures, initiate extinguishment, operate master streams

Second-Arriving Engine Company

This unit must first make sure that adequate water supply is established to the foreground. They may be required to complete tasks that the first couldnt such as: finishing a hose lay, deploying additional hose, connecting to a hydrant to support hose already deployed Need to pump hose from hydrant depends on factors like: size/quanitity of hose, distance from hydrant to scene, available water pressure in distribution system Once water has been established, personnel from this company will perform IC assigned tasks like: assist in advancing first attack hose, back up initial attack line, protect secondary means of egress, prevent fire extension, protect most threatened exposure, assist in extinguishment, assist with fireground support company ops, form RIT team

Nozzle Selection

This will be selected by the supervisor based on the desired fire stream. Factors to consider include: fire conditions, available water supply, number of FFs available to safely operate hoes, capabilities of nozzle used. Interior: fog nozzle is most useful, wide fog can be used to protect FFs from radiant heat and cool fire gases, nozzle can be adjusted to straight stream when necessary to penetrate hot gas layer and cool compartment linings, or reach burning fuel. Exterior: solid stream nozzle is most useful, delivers greatest amount of water over farthest distance, also can be directed through compartment opening This is also determined by water pressure and quantity available. Streams that lack pressure to reach target will result from using a sold stream nozzle tip that's too large. If tip is too small, stream will not deliver volume of water needed. This is also determined by nozzle reaction because it will affect number of personnel required to advance the hoseline and operate the nozzle within the confines of a structure. Greater reactions require more FFs.

Ground Cover Fire Topography

Topography that affects this type of fire can include steepness of slopes. Fires spread faster uphill than downhill. Others include: -Aspect: compass direction a slope faces determines effects of solar heating. Full southern exposures receive more of suns rays and heat in NA. -Local Terrain: canyons, ridges, ravines, rock outcroppings may alter air flow and cause turbulence or eddies. -Drainages: steep ravines that create turbulent updrafts causing a chimney effect. Wind can be critical in chutes and saddles. Fires in these areas can spread at an extremely fast rate even without wind.

Water as Mechanical Tool

Water in hoses can be used to move class B fuels to ares where they can burn safely or where ignition sources are more easily controlled. Fuels must never be flushed down storm drains or into sewers. Use appropriate fog patterns for protection from head and to prevent plunging the stream into the liquid which can cause fire intensity increase. Move the stream from side to side and sweep the fuel or fire to the desired location. Water may also be used to dissipate flammable vapors. Streams can also be used to influence the movement of vapors to a target location.

Water for Crew Protection

Water used in this way can be used when advancing to shut off liquid/gas control valves. Slow deliberate movements provide relative safety from flames and heat. One hose can be used but two lines with a backup is preferred. Apply solid streams to pressure vessels containing flammable liquids or compressed gases when exposed to flame impingement. NFPA study shows that a minimum of 500gpm must be applied at each point of flame impingement. Arch a stream along the top of the vessel so water runs down both sides. Water cools vapor inside the tank, shell, and steel supports under the tanks to prevent collapse. No angle to approach is better than another. When a tank ruptures, metal will fly in all directions. Make a hose advance to a tank on fire using a wide protective fog pattern. Separate pump and water sources supply a backup hose to protect FFs in case other lines fail or additional tank cooling.

Ground Cover Fire Weather

Weather that influences this type of fire include: -wind: fans flames to greater intensity, large fires can create their own wind -temp: relative humidity and its effects on wind, long term drying of fuels -relative humidity: affects dead fuels that only gain moisture from surrounding air -precipitaiton: determines moisture content of live fuels, dead fuels dry more quickly, large fuels retain moisture longer

Transferring Command

When an IC needs to do this, it must be done correctly to avoid confusion. The officer assuming command must communicate face to face or over radio with the officer/FF being relieved. Face to face is preferred. Never transfer to anyone not on scene yet. Brief relieving fire officer with following info: name incident, incident status, safety considerations, goals/objectives listen in IAP, progress toward completion of tactical objectives, deployment of assigned resources, assessment of need for additional resources.

Fires in Upper Structure Levels

When fires occur in multi story buildings, be aware if it will have standpipes or not (usually required in buildings 3 stories or greater). Buildings with no standpipes requires fire attack to proceed into and up the staircase to the fire. Check for fire extension below the fire floor before advancing up the stairs. Personnel will be needed to remove kinks in bends. If structures have standpipes, location of the pipe will determine attack method. If standpipe is in an unprotected stairway, connect hose on the floor below the fire floor and advance up the nearest stairwell. If standpipe is in a protected stairway, hoses may be connected on the fire floor. Extra sections may be flaked up the stairway to the first landing above the fire floor to allow easy feeding as the line is advanced. Crews should be checking floors above for fire extension and victims. Upper structure levels requires large personnel numbers for evacuation, carrying tools, and maintaining sustained fire attack. Elevators must not be used to transport fire crews to the fire floor. Fire may damage elevator controls and strand FFs. Some depts. allow this up to 2 floors below the fire floor. Exercise caution on ground level of high rises as glass and debris may fall from upper stories.