Podcast
Questions and Answers
In what scenario is a greater potential for a larger number of firefighter injuries and fatalities most likely to occur?
In what scenario is a greater potential for a larger number of firefighter injuries and fatalities most likely to occur?
- A single, large commercial fire. (correct)
- A series of vehicle fires in a densely populated residential area.
- A coordinated arson attack on several smaller commercial buildings.
- Multiple residential structure fires occurring simultaneously across a city.
Why is it important for the Incident Commander (IC) to recognize that a commercial structure fire is significantly different from a residential fire?
Why is it important for the Incident Commander (IC) to recognize that a commercial structure fire is significantly different from a residential fire?
- Because commercial fires are more forgiving of errors compared to residential fires.
- Because commercial fires typically involve fewer occupants, reducing the life safety risk.
- Because commercial fires are much less forgiving of errors, possibly leading to being 'behind the power curve'. (correct)
- Because the tactics used for residential fires can be directly translated to commercial fires.
What is a critical consideration regarding pre-planning of commercial structures for fire incidents?
What is a critical consideration regarding pre-planning of commercial structures for fire incidents?
- Pre-planning should only focus on the building's floor plan and ignore potential hazards.
- Pre-planning is less important for commercial buildings compared to residential structures due to the lower life risk.
- Pre-planning can save firefighter and civilian lives due to the complex nature of commercial buildings. (correct)
- Pre-planning is unnecessary for commercial buildings due to their standardized layouts.
What are effective actions during the initial size-up of a commercial structure fire?
What are effective actions during the initial size-up of a commercial structure fire?
How should the Incident Commander (IC) manage situations where initial reports suggest a commercial structure fire is minor with light smoke conditions upon arrival?
How should the Incident Commander (IC) manage situations where initial reports suggest a commercial structure fire is minor with light smoke conditions upon arrival?
What should an Incident Commander (IC) consider when encountering 'cold smoke' conditions during a commercial structure fire?
What should an Incident Commander (IC) consider when encountering 'cold smoke' conditions during a commercial structure fire?
What actions must the Incident Commander (IC) take upon receiving unconfirmed reports of possible occupants inside a commercial building during a fire?
What actions must the Incident Commander (IC) take upon receiving unconfirmed reports of possible occupants inside a commercial building during a fire?
What is the primary challenge in relaying water on commercial fires?
What is the primary challenge in relaying water on commercial fires?
What is the main danger of horizontal ventilation when performing it on a commercial building?
What is the main danger of horizontal ventilation when performing it on a commercial building?
What is important to consider regarding a roof division regarding commercial fires?
What is important to consider regarding a roof division regarding commercial fires?
How can the Incident Commander make the best use of their tactical supervisors at a commercial fire?
How can the Incident Commander make the best use of their tactical supervisors at a commercial fire?
How should a fire in an assembly classified occupancy best be approached?
How should a fire in an assembly classified occupancy best be approached?
What is the best way to approach putting out a commercial building fire?
What is the best way to approach putting out a commercial building fire?
When should a commercial fire that requires a great deal of resources be switched to defensive strategy?
When should a commercial fire that requires a great deal of resources be switched to defensive strategy?
What level of preparedness do RIC teams need to have for commercial structure fires?
What level of preparedness do RIC teams need to have for commercial structure fires?
What are actions the IC can take to improve things in the tactical gap?
What are actions the IC can take to improve things in the tactical gap?
When is it best to do a 360 lap?
When is it best to do a 360 lap?
How can positive-pressure ventilation be important?
How can positive-pressure ventilation be important?
Which description relates to the concept that if a commercial fire requires that many resources, how should it best be approached?
Which description relates to the concept that if a commercial fire requires that many resources, how should it best be approached?
What does the textbook mention is one of the more important things that a tactical supervisor must consider at a commercial fire?
What does the textbook mention is one of the more important things that a tactical supervisor must consider at a commercial fire?
What is generally true regarding buildings before being reinforced?
What is generally true regarding buildings before being reinforced?
Which of the following is the MOST critical difference in mindset required when approaching a commercial structure fire compared to a residential fire?
Which of the following is the MOST critical difference in mindset required when approaching a commercial structure fire compared to a residential fire?
A commercial structure fire requires a different approach than a residential fire, and if residential fire habits are applied to a commercial structure, what is the most likely consequence?
A commercial structure fire requires a different approach than a residential fire, and if residential fire habits are applied to a commercial structure, what is the most likely consequence?
What is the MOST important reason for the first-due officer to conduct a thorough size-up, including a 360° survey when possible, upon arriving at a commercial structure fire?
What is the MOST important reason for the first-due officer to conduct a thorough size-up, including a 360° survey when possible, upon arriving at a commercial structure fire?
How does a commercial structure fire's life hazard typically differ from that of a residential structure fire, especially concerning occupants?
How does a commercial structure fire's life hazard typically differ from that of a residential structure fire, especially concerning occupants?
What is the MOST significant factor that can lead to a rapid and unexpected change in fire behavior in a commercial structure?
What is the MOST significant factor that can lead to a rapid and unexpected change in fire behavior in a commercial structure?
What is the MOST critical consideration for maintaining firefighter safety when operating inside a commercial structure?
What is the MOST critical consideration for maintaining firefighter safety when operating inside a commercial structure?
In the context of commercial structure fires, what does the term "cold smoke conditions" primarily indicate to an Incident Commander (IC)?
In the context of commercial structure fires, what does the term "cold smoke conditions" primarily indicate to an Incident Commander (IC)?
What is the MOST important consideration when determining the appropriate ventilation strategy in a commercial structure fire?
What is the MOST important consideration when determining the appropriate ventilation strategy in a commercial structure fire?
When faced with limited resources at a large commercial structure fire, what is the MOST effective strategy for the Incident Commander (IC) to employ?
When faced with limited resources at a large commercial structure fire, what is the MOST effective strategy for the Incident Commander (IC) to employ?
At commercial structure fires, what is the MOST critical reason for establishing clear and effective communication channels?
At commercial structure fires, what is the MOST critical reason for establishing clear and effective communication channels?
What is the MOST significant challenge posed by truss roof construction in commercial buildings during a fire?
What is the MOST significant challenge posed by truss roof construction in commercial buildings during a fire?
Why is pre-incident planning and familiarity with commercial buildings within a fire department's jurisdiction CRUCIAL?
Why is pre-incident planning and familiarity with commercial buildings within a fire department's jurisdiction CRUCIAL?
Which occupancy classification would be MOST likely defined as an assembly occupancy?
Which occupancy classification would be MOST likely defined as an assembly occupancy?
What presents the GREATEST challenge regarding the size-up of commercial fires?
What presents the GREATEST challenge regarding the size-up of commercial fires?
What has to be balanced regarding commercial fires?
What has to be balanced regarding commercial fires?
Which of the following is something a roof division supervisor is likely to see from the roof?
Which of the following is something a roof division supervisor is likely to see from the roof?
What is the MOST important thing that firefighters must remember regarding strip malls?
What is the MOST important thing that firefighters must remember regarding strip malls?
What does the initial fire attack typically NOT focus on?
What does the initial fire attack typically NOT focus on?
If firefighters are forced to stretch a line further than 200 feet, the IC should think of:
If firefighters are forced to stretch a line further than 200 feet, the IC should think of:
FDCs and sprinkler connections should:
FDCs and sprinkler connections should:
When may the IC be required to get in the weeds a bit more by directing each incoming unit and giving them more specific details regarding their assignments?:
When may the IC be required to get in the weeds a bit more by directing each incoming unit and giving them more specific details regarding their assignments?:
What should the IC and those in command attempt to accomplish with elevated master streams?
What should the IC and those in command attempt to accomplish with elevated master streams?
What tactics should be considered regarding a potential commercial fire?
What tactics should be considered regarding a potential commercial fire?
In what circumstances do many Maydays get missed?
In what circumstances do many Maydays get missed?
What should the IC notify their tactical supervisors if they are considering?
What should the IC notify their tactical supervisors if they are considering?
The IC's span of control should be the smallest in which of these scenarios?
The IC's span of control should be the smallest in which of these scenarios?
How should a chief officer size up if arriving after the initial companies noted smoke in the area but no obvious loom up?
How should a chief officer size up if arriving after the initial companies noted smoke in the area but no obvious loom up?
In what area of the building did the fire originate after the initial fire attack?
In what area of the building did the fire originate after the initial fire attack?
What must firefighters remember regarding tilt-up construction?
What must firefighters remember regarding tilt-up construction?
Where should you position aerial ladder trucks to best position if a collapse zone is determined?
Where should you position aerial ladder trucks to best position if a collapse zone is determined?
Regarding 1021 Job Performance, what type of exercises was the chapter written to support?
Regarding 1021 Job Performance, what type of exercises was the chapter written to support?
What can be helpful in the case of pre-'33 construction?
What can be helpful in the case of pre-'33 construction?
If you see a high pile of material, what is helpful to remember?
If you see a high pile of material, what is helpful to remember?
What is the IC for a fire of a newer constrcution tilt-up building likely to face?
What is the IC for a fire of a newer constrcution tilt-up building likely to face?
Why is a search line necessary on any fire?
Why is a search line necessary on any fire?
Why is RIT so crucial?
Why is RIT so crucial?
If you are unable to muster enough resources to meet your strategic goal of going into the building, what must then take place?
If you are unable to muster enough resources to meet your strategic goal of going into the building, what must then take place?
Who should be used to help decide if a change in strategy is needed?
Who should be used to help decide if a change in strategy is needed?
How can the combination of a newer roof built over an older, existing one impact firefighting operations at a commercial structure fire?
How can the combination of a newer roof built over an older, existing one impact firefighting operations at a commercial structure fire?
What is the primary advantage of establishing geographic divisions (e.g., Division A, B, C) in a large commercial structure fire scenario?
What is the primary advantage of establishing geographic divisions (e.g., Division A, B, C) in a large commercial structure fire scenario?
How should an Incident Commander (IC) approach reports of light smoke conditions in a large commercial building, particularly in an occupancy known for textile or consumer goods storage?
How should an Incident Commander (IC) approach reports of light smoke conditions in a large commercial building, particularly in an occupancy known for textile or consumer goods storage?
Considering the potential for rapid fire spread in strip malls, what is the MOST effective approach for an Incident Commander (IC) when establishing initial fire attack and exposure protection strategies?
Considering the potential for rapid fire spread in strip malls, what is the MOST effective approach for an Incident Commander (IC) when establishing initial fire attack and exposure protection strategies?
In commercial structure fires, how does the Incident Commander's (IC) role in managing the incident's resources and strategies differ when on scene versus managing resources while on the way to the incident?
In commercial structure fires, how does the Incident Commander's (IC) role in managing the incident's resources and strategies differ when on scene versus managing resources while on the way to the incident?
What is a key indicator that can be used by an Incident Commander (IC) to assess the potential for structural collapse in pre-1933 buildings during a fire?
What is a key indicator that can be used by an Incident Commander (IC) to assess the potential for structural collapse in pre-1933 buildings during a fire?
What is a critical action during vertical ventilation operations on a commercial structure, particularly when dealing with limited resources?
What is a critical action during vertical ventilation operations on a commercial structure, particularly when dealing with limited resources?
What tactical approach should be adopted in commercial fires where crews are fatigued due to extreme conditions?
What tactical approach should be adopted in commercial fires where crews are fatigued due to extreme conditions?
How can the Incident Commander (IC) best apply knowledge of building construction types during commercial structure fires to enhance operational effectiveness and firefighter safety?
How can the Incident Commander (IC) best apply knowledge of building construction types during commercial structure fires to enhance operational effectiveness and firefighter safety?
How can the Incident Commander (IC) effectively use their tactical supervisors to improve safety and decision-making at a commercial fire scene?
How can the Incident Commander (IC) effectively use their tactical supervisors to improve safety and decision-making at a commercial fire scene?
When should the Incident Commander (IC) consider implementing the defensive tactics in fighting a commercial structure fire?
When should the Incident Commander (IC) consider implementing the defensive tactics in fighting a commercial structure fire?
Which scenario presents a significant challenge regarding communications at commercial structure fires, potentially leading to missed Mayday calls?
Which scenario presents a significant challenge regarding communications at commercial structure fires, potentially leading to missed Mayday calls?
As a Chief Officer assuming command at a commercial structure fire after the initial companies have arrived and reported light smoke conditions, what is the foremost action?
As a Chief Officer assuming command at a commercial structure fire after the initial companies have arrived and reported light smoke conditions, what is the foremost action?
What does the term 'Vacant, abandoned, or low victim profile' mean for the Incident Commander (IC) in approaching a commercial structure fire, and how should this influence strategic decision-making?
What does the term 'Vacant, abandoned, or low victim profile' mean for the Incident Commander (IC) in approaching a commercial structure fire, and how should this influence strategic decision-making?
In commercial structure fires involving buildings with truss roof construction, what is the MOST appropriate operational tactic for the Incident Commander (IC) to prioritize, considering firefighter safety?
In commercial structure fires involving buildings with truss roof construction, what is the MOST appropriate operational tactic for the Incident Commander (IC) to prioritize, considering firefighter safety?
What specific actions can the Incident Commander (IC) take to mitigate the risks associated with unsupported mansards or facades during commercial fires?
What specific actions can the Incident Commander (IC) take to mitigate the risks associated with unsupported mansards or facades during commercial fires?
When dealing with mixed-use occupancies composed of both a retail space on the ground floor and residential units above, what is the most critical consideration during initial size-up?
When dealing with mixed-use occupancies composed of both a retail space on the ground floor and residential units above, what is the most critical consideration during initial size-up?
In the event of a transition from offensive to defensive strategy, what is the MOST critical action for the Incident Commander (IC) to undertake to ensure firefighter safety?
In the event of a transition from offensive to defensive strategy, what is the MOST critical action for the Incident Commander (IC) to undertake to ensure firefighter safety?
Why is maintaining a 'then/what if?' mindset so important for the Incident Commander (IC) at a rapidly evolving commercial fire?
Why is maintaining a 'then/what if?' mindset so important for the Incident Commander (IC) at a rapidly evolving commercial fire?
Which action is MOST critical in coordinating resources and tactics during a commercial structure fire?
Which action is MOST critical in coordinating resources and tactics during a commercial structure fire?
Flashcards
Commercial Structure
Commercial Structure
Structures that are not residential. Examples include shopping centers, offices and nursing homes.
Taxpayers
Taxpayers
Businesses that combine business and residential use in one building
Assembly building
Assembly building
A building occupancy designed for large congregations of people.
Cold Smoke Conditions
Cold Smoke Conditions
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Hydraulic Ventilation
Hydraulic Ventilation
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PPV - Positive Pressure Ventilation
PPV - Positive Pressure Ventilation
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Vertical Ventillation
Vertical Ventillation
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Horizontal Ventillation
Horizontal Ventillation
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Service Alley
Service Alley
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Concrete Tilt-Up
Concrete Tilt-Up
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Unreinforced Masonry (URM)
Unreinforced Masonry (URM)
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Service Alley
Service Alley
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Taxpayer (mixed-use)
Taxpayer (mixed-use)
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Tactical Lesson: Fire Building
Tactical Lesson: Fire Building
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Incident Command
Incident Command
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Inadequate size-up watch out
Inadequate size-up watch out
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Night operations watch out
Night operations watch out
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Security bars/doors watch out
Security bars/doors watch out
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Plan in advance watch out
Plan in advance watch out
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Inadequate Resources
Inadequate Resources
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Study Notes
Introduction to Commercial Fires
- Commercial fires necessitate a different strategy than residential fires due to variations in building types, occupancies, and potential hazards.
- Errors in commercial fires tend to be less forgiving.
- Commercial fires pose a greater potential for numerous firefighter injuries and fatalities, making the firefighters themselves the primary life hazard.
- Fire Incident Commanders (IC) and response teams must be well-prepared and aware of potential risks, and adjust tactics, risk assessment, reconnaissance, resource allocation, and Incident Command Systems accordingly.
Definitions and Characteristics
- A commercial structure is any nonresidential building, such as shopping centers, offices, or nursing homes.
- Structures designed for human use in industrial, educational, assembly, professional, or commercial activities.
- Alternatively, any building where at least 50% of the floor space is used for commercial activities, including retail, service, or food service (e.g., restaurants).
- Types of commercial structures: taxpayers (mixed-use), strip malls, restaurants, big-box stores, mega-box stores, retail stores, office buildings, warehouses, and storage facilities.
- Assemblies, based on occupancy numbers, share similar hazards and challenges
NFPA and IBC Occupancy Classifications
- Classifications can differ between NFPA and the International Building Code (IBC).
- The use of a building's materials in construction of can vary in type, era, size, and combination.
- Pre-planning is essential to saving lives in the event of a fire.
- Building classifications under both NFPA and IBC include: Assembly, Ambulatory Health Care, Educational, Day Care, Health Care, Detention and Correctional, Residential Board and Care, One- and Two-Family Dwelling, Lodging or Rooming House, Apartment, Mercantile, Business, Industrial, Storage, High Hazard, and Utility and Miscellaneous.
Hazards
- Commercial buildings present the possibility for extreme life loss per fire, as evidenced by historic fires like the 2016 Ghost Ship Fire (36 civilian deaths) and the 2003 Station Nightclub Fire (100 deaths).
- The 2007 Sofa Superstore Fire (9 firefighter deaths) and 2020 Boyd Street Incident (12 firefighter injuries) further highlight the stakes.
- Hazards found in commercial buildings include: excessive fire loading, excessive flammable liquids beyond permitting, hazardous materials without proper placarding and labeling, illegal remodeling against code, and illegal storage of materials.
- Further hazards: high-piled storage racks, security gates/bars/doors, roll-up doors, older/dilapidated construction, lightweight/truss roof assemblies, excess dead loading on roofs, unsupported mansards/facades, loading docks, basements/chases/freight elevators, access/egress issues, boarded-up doors/windows, sudden collapse of roofs/walls, sudden fire increase/deflagration, inadequate water supply, and lack of/shut down fixed protection systems.
Case Study: Boyd Street Incident
- The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded to a major structure fire on May 16, 2020 in downtown Los Angeles with high structure fire activity due to the homeless population.
- The incident occurred on a Saturday afternoon, interrupting the weekend training routine.
- After initial companies dispersed to find the source of smoke, Truck 9 located the building and took command by deploying resources to the roof, fire attack, and backup fire attack.
- The responding battalion chief transitioned command, and an Emergency Incident Technician (EIT) was setting up for a potential extended operation.
- Arriving resources began surrounding the four exposure buildings as the intensity of the fire increased, and fire attack was tasked to give a CAN report, however, the fire rapidly deteriorated and radio communications were interfered with.
- An enormous fireball engulfed the street and the aerial ladder at the minute mark.
- A Mayday tone was broadcasted, extra personnel were requested, and a roll call was taken.
- The injured were cared for, the fire was transferred to Command 22, and the officer was redeployed and went to the hospital.
Lessons from Boyd Street Fire
- Main fire building was between taller buildings with limited Alpha side roof access and egress options.
- Steel doors took up the Alpha side of the building, eliminating ground and aerial ladder spots.
- Having practiced Mayday procedures and command protocol is vital.
- Emergency tones and communications should be practiced on both tactical and command channels together.
Commercial Structure Fire Watch Out Situations
- Essential warning signs on commercial fires are similar to the Wildland 18 Watch Out Situations.
- Size-up: Insufficient arrival report showing lack of size and hazard assessment
- Night operations: Missed overhead powerlines, construction features, remodels, placards, and hazards that complicate visibility.
- Boarded entrances: compromised egress by boarded doors, windows, and security bars.
- Unfamiliarity of Building: Walk commercial buildings often as possible
- Announcing Objectives- clear incident alignment between Command, tactics, resource
- Tactical Channel Overload: divisions and groups or calling additional alarms before the curve, adding tactical channels
- Communication Failure: Use of simplex or direct channel for comms
- No water: insufficient water impact strategy dependent on adequate water supply
- Limited Space: Overhang, awnings, equipment impacting access
- Downwind Attack: Attack fire’s closest seat versus house fires
- Zero visibility Commercial fires unforgiving, may be concealed
- Hazardous content in buildings where in regular content to facility
- Primary access unsupported: Fire in Sacramento case cited
- Conditions worsened: Task level do not recognize fire is worsened
- Inadequate Resources: Lack of resources hinder goal, must use alternative methods
- Low profile: Stabilize before VP
- Obvious, un-permitted remodels and Mods
- Heat fatigue, short stints of time lead to longer conditions
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