Fire Safety in Multi-Family Dwellings

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the primary identification of converted row houses and multiplex homes?

They have a single entrance for all units.

They are always built from scratch.

They only include two units per floor.

They typically feature multiple addresses or power meters. (correct)

Why is Division A utilized in the organization of fire incidents in multi-floor buildings?

It provides supervision across all floors without being obstructed by smoke. (correct)

It allows each supervisor to manage only one floor to minimize confusion.

It promotes individual entrance management for each unit.

It is always the highest division in fire management.

What complicates the fire supervision if divisions are organized by floor number?

Supervisors may be trapped in smoke and unable to assess conditions. (correct)

Supervisors cannot communicate effectively.

Supervisors may be overwhelmed with units on each floor.

Supervisors could miss crucial details about fire extension.

Which of the following best describes the portals for entry in multi-unit occupancy buildings?

The exterior doors serve as the portals for each floor. Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential issue if fire extends laterally in a multi-unit occupancy situation?

It can necessitate the creation of additional divisions like B or D. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic is NOT typical of large homes converted into multiplexes?

They typically maintain a single address for the entire building. Signup and view all the answers

How does the layout of a four-story apartment building impact fire incident management?

The multiple floors require more robust fire suppression resources. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of fire management, what is the primary role of divisional supervisors?

To monitor fire conditions and manage crews on their assigned floors. Signup and view all the answers

What was estimated to be the dollar loss caused by the fire?

Over 100 million dollars Signup and view all the answers

What was believed to be the cause of the fire?

Electrical issues in the neutral side Signup and view all the answers

Which challenge did firefighters face due to the building layout?

Multiple long-distance areas of origin Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the construction site may have contributed to the fire's growth?

Wood truss design creating void spaces Signup and view all the answers

What lesson was highlighted regarding pre-plans for construction sites?

They should be updated during different construction phases. Signup and view all the answers

How can departments improve their readiness for fire incidents in construction sites?

By investing in electric chainsaws and tethered drones. Signup and view all the answers

What does the presence of a confirmed victim profile (VP) in MFDs suggest?

An average of three victims is likely. Signup and view all the answers

Which occupancy types fall under the categorization of MFDs?

Duplexes, triplexes, and condominiums Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial action taken by E109 upon arrival at the incident scene?

Initiated fire attack. Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of HM109 upon arriving at the scene?

To search and ventilate the structure. Signup and view all the answers

What division was assumed by E108 Captain after the arrival of E108?

Division A. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was NOT an objective for Division A as outlined by E108 Captain?

Establish a perimeter around the fire. Signup and view all the answers

What command was announced after the transfer of command with E108 Captain?

An offensive strategy with low victim profile. Signup and view all the answers

How many units were reported to be assigned to Division A?

Five units. Signup and view all the answers

Which element was indicated as being low due to companies on scene with primary search underway?

Victim Profile. Signup and view all the answers

When was the fire attack initiated by E109?

At 2:00 PM on a 115°F day. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary objective of the Roof Division?

To perform vertical ventilation and prevent fire extension Signup and view all the answers

Which resource is specifically assigned to manage rapid intervention within the incident?

E24 Rescue Group Signup and view all the answers

What must be coordinated through Division A during salvage and overhaul?

Positive pressure or natural ventilation Signup and view all the answers

If the B-side exposure unit becomes significantly involved, what action may be taken?

Establish a Division B with a second-arriving chief Signup and view all the answers

Which chief may assume Division A if overwhelmed with span of control?

Second-arriving chief Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary concern for medical units during the incident, as noted?

Heat exhaustion among crews Signup and view all the answers

What could be included in the RIC cache for firefighter rescue?

Standard firefighting gear Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of the Medical unit during the incident?

Establish a medical area and ensure treatment of individuals Signup and view all the answers

What is one common pitfall in multi-family dwelling (MFD) fires that can lead to ineffective operational outcomes?

Failure to pre-plan and train Signup and view all the answers

During an MFD fire, what aspect should be prioritized when assessing potential victims?

Understanding the victim profile Signup and view all the answers

What was the response time for the fire crews during the apartment fire incident described?

Under three minutes Signup and view all the answers

What challenge can arise from a self-venting window in an MFD fire?

It creates a secondary ignition risk Signup and view all the answers

What strategy did Chief Bergerson announce upon assessing the situation?

Offensive strategy with confirmed victim profile Signup and view all the answers

How many resources were effectively utilized in the incident while maintaining a manageable span of control?

11 resources Signup and view all the answers

Which fire environment issue can significantly hinder rescue operations in MFDs?

Toxic smoke filling common areas Signup and view all the answers

What is a tactical issue that might arise regarding teams deployed during an MFD fire?

They might exceed recommended crew sizes Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the actions taken by the M30 crew during the rescue?

The M30 crew successfully intubated the boy and regained his respirations. Signup and view all the answers

What prevented unnecessary radio transmissions during the fire response?

The empowerment of division and group supervisors to make decisions. Signup and view all the answers

How should occupant accountability be managed in hotels and motels during a fire emergency?

By coordinating with management to identify who is in the building. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key consideration when managing fire operations in larger buildings?

A rescue group may be employed for known victim areas. Signup and view all the answers

Why is training combined with time critical for establishing trust in fire operations?

It allows for quicker decision-making without requiring approval. Signup and view all the answers

What role does hotel management play during a fire situation?

They provide information about occupied units to aid in search efforts. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'Training + Time = Trust' imply in the context of fire operations?

Trust among team members is built through experience and learning. Signup and view all the answers

What is a lateral relationship between divisions and groups during fire operations?

Divisions and groups cooperate at the same level of authority. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Multi-Family Dwellings, Hotels, and Motels

Multi-family dwellings (MFDs) are structures designed for more than one family to live.
MFDs can include duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, condominiums, and townhomes.
Some MFDs are older and have been remodeled without adhering to modern building codes.
They can have large, open stairwells or center halls, and garden-style apartments.
MFDs can be highly complex with multiple access points and potentially high occupancy.
Construction styles can vary, and locations may have unique design features such as brownstones.

Fire Incidents in MFDs

Fires in MFDs often have high potential for loss of life due to the dense occupancy.
Access to fire lanes may be difficult due to obstacles such as parked cars, dumpsters, and narrow pathways.
Complex layout of MFDs with multi-floor structures can make fire spread rapid and difficult to control.
Limited access to fire hydrants and potential for confusion within the complex.
Poor pre-planning and delayed access to fire resources can increase the risks and consequences.

Specific Types of MFDs

Hotels and motels are structured for temporary lodging and can have long-term residents.
Hotels typically have center hall layouts with enclosed stairwells and hallways.
Motels often have exterior walkways leading to units, possibly adjacent to parking lots.

Size-Up and Access

MFDs require specialized size-up procedures to account for multiple interior access points, layers of buildings, different street names, and atypical layouts.
Sufficient water supply is crucial to contain or extinguish fires effectively in MFDs. Multiple supply lines are sometimes required.
Locating fire hydrants can be challenging due to building configurations or placement.
Access into an MFD quickly can minimize the spread of fire, thus mitigating severe damage.

Communication

Clear and effective communication is vital for coordinating actions among fire crews, especially as the incident progresses or expands.
Separate channels may be needed for different divisions or functions to maintain clear and coherent communication amongst fire crews.
In some cases, the number of individuals may require dedicated or specialized communication channels or devices.

Victim Profiles and Underestimating Potential

Accurate determination of how many occupants were in the building at the time of a fire is essential.
Quickly assessing potential victim profiles can direct resources effectively and improve outcomes.
Potential victim profiles should be anticipated and the impact of rapid spread of fire in MFDs accounts needs to be addressed to save lives.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz explores the characteristics and challenges of fire safety in multi-family dwellings (MFDs) such as duplexes, condominiums, and hotels. Understand how the design and density of these structures can impact fire incidents and safety measures. Test your knowledge on the complexities involved in preventing and managing fires in these environments.