Ch 3 pg 44-48 handbooks of tactics

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Questions and Answers

What is the the combination attack highly suited for?

For the free burning stage (correct)

To restrict air flow into the fire area.

To extinguish flames using foam.

To increase visibility in the smoke-filled environment.

When beginning the attack in a single room, where should the water stream first be directed?

Into the contents of the room directly.

Towards the windows.

At the floor of the room.

At the ceiling of the room. (correct)

What is the average size residential room?

12x12

10x10

10x12 (correct)

15x15

How should the nozzle operator handle the stream when moving to the next involved room?

Sweep the floor from side to side along the path of advance. Signup and view all the answers

In an advanced multiroom fire, what pattern should the nozzle operator use for the stream?

A Z-shaped pattern to sweep the ceiling. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary aim of a combination attack during firefighting?

To preserve the chances of survival for individuals inside the fire building. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk faced by firefighters during a combination attack?

Increased exposure to hostile environments. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a disadvantage of a combination attack?

It effectively preserves heat for victims in upper levels. Signup and view all the answers

Why do firefighters accept the dangers of a combination attack?

Because human life is at stake. Signup and view all the answers

What is becoming more common in high crime and high value buildings?

1/8 steel steel plating on the roof Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended pattern for sweeping the room while extinguishing a fire?

A 'Z' shape followed by dropping to the floor Signup and view all the answers

What should a nozzle operator do if they experience a lot of heat from behind while using a fog stream?

Switch to a straight stream and hold position Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important not to bypass side rooms when advancing with a nozzle?

Fires may blow out and trap the nozzle team Signup and view all the answers

What is an alternative method to the 'Z' pattern when using a nozzle?

Rotating the nozzle clockwise from the ceiling to the walls Signup and view all the answers

What initial step should a nozzle operator take before starting to sweep the room?

Sweeping the ceiling pushing the fire farther away from the team Signup and view all the answers

What are the dangers associated with a rain roof?

It adds undesigned weights to the structure and can prevent topside ventilation Signup and view all the answers

In which scenario is roof ventilation typically delayed?

When there is a rain roof present. Signup and view all the answers

What approach is suggested if roof ventilation is not feasible?

Indirect attack Signup and view all the answers

During which fire stage is the indirect attack best utilized?

Third stage fires. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of commercial buildings is noted regarding potential backdrafts?

They typically develop to the third stage at night. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common error made in a combination attack when using a wide fog pattern?

It can cause steam burns and push the fire into new areas. Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters do after extinguishing the overhead fire?

Redirect the stream to cool the burning fuel throughout the room. Signup and view all the answers

What stage of fire involves high heat and limited ventilation potentially leading to backdraft?

Smoldering stage. Signup and view all the answers

What is a correct tactic for dealing with a suspected backdraft situation?

Vent the highest portions of the affected area. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it dangerous to open doors without proper ventilation procedures in a fire?

It admits oxygen, which can lead to a backdraft explosion. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended initial aim of the stream in a combination attack?

On the ceiling to cool hot gases. Signup and view all the answers

What can lead to inefficient firefighting when the stream is left on the ceiling for too long?

Prevents progress in extinguishing the fire. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term ' rollover' refer to in firefighting?

A phase of fire where flames flicker along the ceiling. Signup and view all the answers

What happens when a building is filled with flammable gases and no visible fire is present?

It signifies a potential for backdraft explosion. Signup and view all the answers

What factor can contribute to an increased likelihood of backdrafts in modern buildings?

High levels of insulation and energy conservation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of creating a very small opening for ventilation during a third-stage fire?

To direct a 30° fog pattern to cool the area Signup and view all the answers

How much can one gallon of water expand when fully vaporized into steam?

1,500-2,000 gallons Signup and view all the answers

What is a major risk when there is a potential for backdraft in a multistory building?

Immediate entry without ventilation Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a rapid follow-up with sufficient hose streams is not possible after initial ventilation?

Seal the area and let the steam soak in Signup and view all the answers

What effect does injecting water fog into a superheated atmosphere have on the fire area?

Turns the heat to steam and smothers it. Signup and view all the answers

What is required for the atmosphere to achieve a smothering effect from the indirect method?

Several minutes of soaking time Signup and view all the answers

What can occur if ventilation is performed prematurely?

Reignition may occur in the superheated area Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Combination Attack Method

Utilizes hose stream to cool combustible gases at ceiling level, facilitating the advance of the nozzle team.
Effective for confined residential fires, typically around 10x12 ft, allowing for attacks from the doorway.
For larger fires, a continuous attack while advancing is necessary to address all involved surfaces.

Advanced Firefighting Strategy

Initially, apply water at ceiling level for 5-10 seconds, then sweep the contents of the room until fire darkens.
Use the straight stream setting to engage the next room and cool the floor to mitigate risks from embers and debris.
A "Z" pattern is recommended for sweeping the ceiling, followed by sweeping the floor to extinguish flames effectively.

Risks and Tactical Errors

Firefighters entering involved structures face considerable risk; due diligence is crucial to ensure safety.
Common errors include:
- Using a wide fog pattern on the fire, which can produce steam, potentially forcing the team out of the area.
- Leaving the stream on the ceiling too long without addressing the actual burning fuel in the room, hindering extinguishment efforts.

Understanding Fire Stages

The smoldering stage occurs when a fire hasn’t visibly burned but can still produce toxic gases and heat, posing backdraft risks.
This dangerous condition can arise from energy conservation methods that create airtight buildings, trapping heat and gases inside.

Backdraft Prevention Techniques

Suspected backdraft conditions require venting the highest portions of the area, typically through the roof.
Cutting proper ventilation openings can be challenging, and alternative methods may need to be employed in time-critical situations.

Indirect Attack Strategy

If traditional ventilation is impractical, the indirect attack can be employed, especially effective during third-stage fires.
Small openings should be created for water application, utilizing a 30° fog pattern that vaporizes instantly, absorbing heat and generating steam to create an inert atmosphere.

Post-Attack Strategies

After using the indirect method, if conditions allow, shift to a combination attack to eliminate remaining fires.
Allow steam to soak the area for several minutes to prevent reignition, especially critical in multistory buildings where robust follow-up resources are unavailable.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the combination attack technique used in firefighting. It covers the principles of cooling combustible gases and extinguishing fires effectively from a safe distance. Test your knowledge on this critical firefighting method.