Ch 2 pg 20-29Fire Officer's Handbook

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Questions and Answers

A fire that has not yet vented or is only out one of two windows, but has not vented from any other windows, is usually confined to one room and has been at flashover for how long?

1-5 minutes (correct)

5 minutes or less

5-10 minutes

3 minutes

When should firefighters be particularly cautious during an attack?

When there are many nonvented windows

When fire is venting from multiple floors (correct)

When there is evidence of poorly constructed walls

When fire is confined to a single room

What indicates that a fire might have been influenced by accelerants?

Smoke that smells like burning wood

Rapid, intense fire damage on wood (correct)

Relatively slow fire spread despite visible flames

Extensive exterior flame visibility

What should firefighters check for when assessing fire conditions?

Be aware of the history of the building Signup and view all the answers

What does the presence of large holes connecting floors typically indicate?

Breach of structural integrity due to flame spread Signup and view all the answers

What significant impact does the holiday season have on commercial occupancies regarding fire hazards?

Increased fire loading and life hazard due to higher inventory and flammable decorations. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT a contributor to elapsed burn time when assessing structural collapse risk?

Who the owner is Signup and view all the answers

What does the 20-minute rule suggest regarding fire control in certain building types? Class 3 and 5

Begin withdrawing personnel if fire control is not achieved in 20 minutes. Signup and view all the answers

At which point does the time frame for structural collapse begin?

When flashover occurs and impacts structural elements. Signup and view all the answers

Why are fire-resistance ratings considered inadequate in predicting structural collapse in modern buildings?

They were developed before the extensive use of plastics in construction. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk associated with noncombustible buildings? Class 2

These structures are the least stable when exposed to fire Signup and view all the answers

Which type of construction is most commonly associated with the application of the 20-minute rule?

Wood frame and brick and wood joist structures. Signup and view all the answers

What concern was highlighted regarding lightweight construction before 9/11?

Builders ignored warnings about its fire resistance. Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT listed as one of the factors leading to collapse after 5 minutes of fire exposure?

Timber frame Signup and view all the answers

How long does he say he has seen wooden bowstring trusses fail?

8 minutes Signup and view all the answers

How does the fire resistance of modern high-rise buildings compare to that of older structures like the Empire State Building?

Modern buildings are more likely to collapse with fire exposure. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding estimating the post-flashover stage in fire scenarios?

It is directly related to when the fire starts to burn structural elements. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'noncombustible' specifically refer to in building materials?

Materials that do not contribute fuel to the fire. Signup and view all the answers

What role does deteriorating structural design play in the assessment of fire risk?

It can increase risks associated with fire exposure and collapse. Signup and view all the answers

What is the critical time frame for unprotected steel in a serious fire?

5 minutes Signup and view all the answers

What significant change has occurred regarding air-bottle cylinders in fire departments?

Shifting from 30- to 45-minute cylinders Signup and view all the answers

What is one purpose of using a time mark system in fire incidents?

To remind the Incident Commander of elapsed time Signup and view all the answers

In regard to building construction, what is a consequence of greater compartmentation?

Slowed fire spread but difficulty in accessing hoselines Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary indicator of an impending collapse in a structure?

Elapsed time since flashover Signup and view all the answers

Which type of building construction typically poses a heavy fire load?

Wood construction Signup and view all the answers

What might result from the use of a metal deck roof in a fire situation?

Hazard due to hot, poured tar Signup and view all the answers

In the event of a prolonged exposure inside a burning structure, what is a dangerous consequence?

Failure to monitor structural stability Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential risk of large open floor spaces in a building during a fire?

Increased fire spread Signup and view all the answers

What should be a primary consideration for the fire service concerning property and life?

Property can be rebuilt, but lives cannot Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical consideration for an Incident Commander (IC) when dealing with a subsequent fire in a building that has undergone a previous fire?

The building will become structurally weaker over time. Signup and view all the answers

In which type of construction is the air-bottle rule or 20-minute rule not applicable?

Class 1 buildings of reinforced concrete Signup and view all the answers

What happens if an attack crew exhausts their air supply with observing a main body of fire being knocked down?

The IC must evaluate and possibly order them out of the building if he determines that the fire hasn’t been put out. Signup and view all the answers

What common method do experienced chiefs use to track elapsed time during firefighting operations?

Using an air-bottle method with the duration of air cylinders. Signup and view all the answers

What should the IC do if conditions indicate the interior fire crews have not managed to put out a considerable body of fire?

Initiate a defensive strategy Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of a building that has been renovated extensively?

It may weaken the structure, making it less stable. Signup and view all the answers

What timeline is suggested for the effectiveness of a full 30-minute air cylinder under heavy firefighting conditions?

Approximately 15-20 minutes of effective use. Signup and view all the answers

How can the air-bottle or 20-minute rule be effectively applied?

With a competent IC evaluating the fire control. Signup and view all the answers

What are hidden voids in a building primarily responsible for during a fire?

Providing concealed pathways for fire spread Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant factor contributing to the collapse of a building in a fire situation?

Overload from water during firefighting Signup and view all the answers

Which materials are typically used in Class 1 (Type I) fire resistive buildings?

Poured or precast concrete and steel frame with applied fireproofing Signup and view all the answers

What reduces the effectiveness of steel structures in resisting fire?

Inadequate fireproofing Signup and view all the answers

What is probably the most important thing to firefighters related to construction?

The ability of a building to resist collapse when threatened by fire. Signup and view all the answers

Why is fireproofing considered crucial for steel in fire resistive buildings?

It prevents steel from weakening due to heat exposure Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of noncombustible buildings in relation to fire?

They do not add fuel but can still collapse quickly. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes ordinary construction methods?

They involve walls of masonry or noncombustible materials with wooden floors and roofs. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the risk of collapse in Class 5 wood-frame buildings compared to noncombustible structures?

Class 5 buildings pose less of a collapse hazard if lightweight elements are not included. Signup and view all the answers

In relation to fire resistance, what is the minimum rating required for heavy timber buildings?

2 hours Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern regarding the area and height of a building during a size-up?

They indicate potential fire spread and maximum potential fire area. Signup and view all the answers

What feature of heavy timber buildings makes them less complex for firefighting?

The lack of hidden voids. Signup and view all the answers

Why do heavy timber buildings require large quantities of water during a fire?

To cool large surfaces exposed to flames. Signup and view all the answers

Why might a firefighter misjudge the height of a structure during a size-up?

Buildings can be deceptively built on a grade with entrances on multiple levels. Signup and view all the answers

What implication does the presence of combustible voids in wood-frame construction have for fire safety?

It creates hiding spots for flames, increasing fire danger. Signup and view all the answers

What risk is associated with ordinary construction buildings when a fire occurs?

Fire can spread from floor to floor. Signup and view all the answers

What is the implication of a heavy fire load in heavy timber buildings?

It can contribute to more intense fires. Signup and view all the answers

What misconception might firefighters have about a building that appears to be two stories from one angle?

It may actually be taller when viewed from another angle. Signup and view all the answers

Which construction method is characterized by its use of smaller timber that is easier to ignite?

Ordinary construction. Signup and view all the answers

Why should you get early reports from the roof level?

To see if the building is what is seems from the front Signup and view all the answers

What can be hidden from FF even when on the roof?

The presence of interconnecting openings between what appear to be two separate buildings Signup and view all the answers

Unlike all of the previous factors that have to do with the building, what can not be determined until actual units arrive?

The location and extent of the fire Signup and view all the answers

What building height typically requires Class 1 construction according to building codes?

Six stories or 75 ft Signup and view all the answers

Why is understanding the frontage of a building important for firefighters?

It indicates possible points of entry and ventilation. Signup and view all the answers

How can firefighters prepare for unexpected building shapes during an attack?

By getting early reports from the roof level. Signup and view all the answers

What can interconnecting openings between buildings indicate during a fire incident?

Potential extension of fire beyond expected areas. Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of misjudging the width of a building from its street view?

Shortage of hoseline and firefighting resources. Signup and view all the answers

What is essential for firefighters to have when examining adjoining areas during a fire?

Sufficient personnel with the proper tools. Signup and view all the answers

What might firefighters find that is not visible from the roof that could complicate fire operations?

Interconnecting openings between buildings. Signup and view all the answers

What can result from choosing a hoseline diameter that is too small for the fire size?

Inability to adequately control the fire. Signup and view all the answers

What complicates firefighting operations in below-grade fires?

Limited horizontal ventilation Signup and view all the answers

What is a location that create special hazards ?

Attics or cocklofts that act as insulation against the cold and heat Signup and view all the answers

Which factor influences the tactics used in controlling a fire?

The location and extent of the fire Signup and view all the answers

What challenge do firefighters face when fighting fires that are beyond the reach of ladders?

Complicated entry and ventilation tactics Signup and view all the answers

What is an important consideration when assessing a fire in an occupied apartment building?

Assessing the fire's location quickly before making an entry Signup and view all the answers

During which scenario is fresh personnel most critical?

When entering below-grade fires Signup and view all the answers

In which type of fire situation does smoke often vent out through stairways?

Below-grade fires Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk associated with void spaces in buildings during a fire?

They can trap heat and accelerate fire spread Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario is most likely to limit firefighter tactics during a fire attack?

Fires located on the fifth floor of occupied structures Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about assessing a fire's location?

It can be determined solely by initial reports Signup and view all the answers

NFPA uses type of construction with _____ numeral designations. Many other resources refer to classes with Arabic numerals

Roman Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Time in Firefighting

Planning is essential; reliance on hope is ineffective in firefighting strategies.
Increased fire risks during the holiday season stem from heightened inventory, customer presence, and flammable decorations.

Elapsed Burn Time and Structural Collapse

Estimating elapsed burn time is critical for assessing structural integrity and safety.
Factors affecting elapsed burn time include construction type, fire loading, alarm delay, structural alterations, weather exposure, and catastrophic events.
Example: In the World Trade Center attacks, one tower collapsed in 1 hour; the other lasted 1 hour 45 minutes, influenced by fire loading.

Fire-Resistance Ratings

Traditional fire-resistance ratings do not account for the impact of modern materials like plastics, which alter the fire's time-temperature curve.

Predicting Structural Collapse

Predicting structural collapse is challenging; the 20-minute rule suggests awareness of potential dangers.
Understanding the class of construction is vital for assessing collapse risk.

Common Structures in Operations

Residential buildings and smaller commercial structures are prevalent, typically made from wood frame (Class 5) or brick and wood joist (Class 3).
These constructions show similar fire behavior patterns, allowing for reliable predictions on fire dynamics.

Time Frame for Collapse

The critical timing for assessing collapse begins when a fire reaches the post-flashover stage, not upon the fire service's arrival.

Size-Up Techniques

Use thermal imaging for detecting unvented flashover conditions during the size-up walk-around.
Fires venting from multiple windows indicate prolonged burning or potential accelerants, necessitating cautious attack strategies.

Building Stability During Fires

Previous fires can weaken structures, affecting their stability in future incidents; vacant buildings are particularly vulnerable.
Time management in firefighting operations is crucial, with air-cylinder usage as a tracking method for elapsed time.

Construction Types and Fire Resistance

Class 1 (Type I): Fire resistive; made from noncombustible materials such as concrete and steel frames. Common in high-rises.
Class 2: Noncombustible but less fire-resistant than Class 1.
Class 3 (Ordinary): Combines masonry with combustible wooden floors and roofs with a 2-hour fire-resistance rating.
Class 4 (Heavy Timber): Features significant mass and fire load; effective against collapse but requires large water quantities to extinguish.
Class 5 (Wood Frame): Comprised largely of combustible materials; presents fire extension risks but lower collapse hazards when devoid of lightweight elements.

Hidden Voids and Fire Spread

Hidden voids like cocklofts and chases can facilitate rapid fire travel, significantly increasing danger, especially in older buildings.

Material Overload

Building structures can withstand stresses up to a critical point; exceeding this may lead to collapse, compounded by fire damage, water weight, or personnel load.

Importance of Contextual Awareness

Firefighters must remain aware of structural conditions, elapsed time since flashover, and construction type to make informed decisions about attack strategies.### Area and Height Considerations
Building area and height are critical in assessing fire risk, indicating maximum potential fire area.
Structures on a grade may give misleading height perception; an entrance on a higher street can mask true size, leading to potential misjudgment.
Visual discrepancies can lead to aerial devices being out of reach if actual height is underestimated.
Accurate size-up is crucial for the safety of firefighters and occupants.

Construction Types and Fire Hazards

Buildings over six stories or 75 feet typically require Class 1 construction, influencing fire response strategies.
Standpipe and sprinkler systems are mandated in taller buildings, affecting hose line positioning in lower stories.
Building frontage aids in determining width and depth, aiding in initial attack planning and horizontal ventilation.
Structures may have irregular shapes, such as L or T formations, complicating size assessments based solely on street view.

Hidden Fire Hazards

Interconnecting openings between adjacent structures can create a combined fire area, necessitating thorough inspection during fire response.
Personnel should be equipped to access and assess hidden spaces above ceilings to identify potential fire extension points.

Location and Fire Extent Challenges

Fire location is often unclear upon unit arrival; first reports can lead to misinterpretations of fire source.
Fires at lower building levels pose greater risks due to potential rapid vertical spread.
Special care is needed for fires in top floors and void spaces, such as attics, where fires can travel undetected.

Below Grade Fire Complications

Fires in below-grade locations (cellars, tunnels) present significant challenges, like limited ventilation options.
Stairways become vertical chimneys; operations must be executed in hazardous conditions, requiring constant air supply.
Operational tactics differ for below-grade fires, demanding careful coordination of relief and resources to ensure firefighter safety.

High-Rise Fire Considerations

Fires in high-rises or low-rise, windowless buildings can limit access and ventilation.
Strategies for dealing with these fires involve unique tactics, similar to those used for below-grade fires, to mitigate danger and maximize effectiveness.

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Description

This quiz explores critical concepts from the Fire Officer's Handbook of Tactics, focusing on the importance of time in firefighting strategies. Topics include the impact of seasonal hazards and the significance of elapsed burn time in assessing structural safety. Test your knowledge of effective fire prevention and response tactics.