Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is a primary hazard firefighters face in strip malls?
What is a primary hazard firefighters face in strip malls?
- Complex construction features (correct)
- Presence of residential units
- High occupancy by civilians
- Inadequate parking solutions
What term describes the area between the topside of the ceiling and the underside of the roof in a building with a peaked roof?
What term describes the area between the topside of the ceiling and the underside of the roof in a building with a peaked roof?
- Cockloft
- Canopy
- Attic (correct)
- Flue space
Which structure component is designed to hide dead loads and unsightly features on the roof?
Which structure component is designed to hide dead loads and unsightly features on the roof?
- Parapet (correct)
- Canopy
- Cantilever
- Marquee
In mixed occupancy buildings, what is typically found on the lower floors?
In mixed occupancy buildings, what is typically found on the lower floors?
What is the maximum length that a pre-connected jumpline can be extended?
What is the maximum length that a pre-connected jumpline can be extended?
What does the term 'scrub area' refer to in firefighting?
What does the term 'scrub area' refer to in firefighting?
What is the purpose of a portable standpipe evolution?
What is the purpose of a portable standpipe evolution?
What happens to plate glass when it shatters?
What happens to plate glass when it shatters?
What type of door is commonly used at the rear of businesses for heavy security?
What type of door is commonly used at the rear of businesses for heavy security?
Which material is NOT typically part of a storefront's construction?
Which material is NOT typically part of a storefront's construction?
What is used to secure a rolling overhead door before entering the structure?
What is used to secure a rolling overhead door before entering the structure?
What type of glass is typically installed in new constructions without hurricane shutters?
What type of glass is typically installed in new constructions without hurricane shutters?
Where are electrical meters commonly located in a strip mall?
Where are electrical meters commonly located in a strip mall?
What construction feature is commonly found at the top of a storefront configuration?
What construction feature is commonly found at the top of a storefront configuration?
Which hazardous condition can occur due to heavy dead loads on a roof?
Which hazardous condition can occur due to heavy dead loads on a roof?
Which tool is best used for forcing inward swinging doors?
Which tool is best used for forcing inward swinging doors?
What is a common hazard found between the roof and ceiling that can go undetected?
What is a common hazard found between the roof and ceiling that can go undetected?
Where might the Fire Department Connection (FDC) be located in relation to the building?
Where might the Fire Department Connection (FDC) be located in relation to the building?
What is the primary purpose of the first arriving apparatus on the scene?
What is the primary purpose of the first arriving apparatus on the scene?
What must be done if personnel hazards are identified at an incident?
What must be done if personnel hazards are identified at an incident?
Which of the following is a type of gas supplied to certain commercial occupancies?
Which of the following is a type of gas supplied to certain commercial occupancies?
What is the term for an explosion that may occur from boiled liquid in a container?
What is the term for an explosion that may occur from boiled liquid in a container?
What is the primary role of the Rescue crew during initial fire suppression?
What is the primary role of the Rescue crew during initial fire suppression?
Which of the following is an essential initial action for the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) upon arrival?
Which of the following is an essential initial action for the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) upon arrival?
Where should the first arriving Engine/Tanker apparatus be positioned?
Where should the first arriving Engine/Tanker apparatus be positioned?
What is a priority task for the second arriving suppression crew?
What is a priority task for the second arriving suppression crew?
What is one critical function that the third arriving suppression crew must prioritize?
What is one critical function that the third arriving suppression crew must prioritize?
Which of the following actions is NOT part of the responsibilities of the third arriving suppression?
Which of the following actions is NOT part of the responsibilities of the third arriving suppression?
What should the fourth arriving suppression crew be prepared to fulfill?
What should the fourth arriving suppression crew be prepared to fulfill?
What is a significant reason for slow and cautious approaches in strip mall fires?
What is a significant reason for slow and cautious approaches in strip mall fires?
What should the Incident Commander (IC) recognize about certain tasks during an incident response?
What should the Incident Commander (IC) recognize about certain tasks during an incident response?
Which of the following should be done if a serious fire rapidly depletes first alarm resources?
Which of the following should be done if a serious fire rapidly depletes first alarm resources?
What practice should be avoided during interior hoseline operations?
What practice should be avoided during interior hoseline operations?
In regard to the arrangement of rescue units, when should a second Rescue unit be utilized?
In regard to the arrangement of rescue units, when should a second Rescue unit be utilized?
What is a recommended operation for Aerial apparatus in fire situations?
What is a recommended operation for Aerial apparatus in fire situations?
What is the recommended action if there are indications of fire inside the exposure?
What is the recommended action if there are indications of fire inside the exposure?
Where do most fires in strip shopping centers generally originate?
Where do most fires in strip shopping centers generally originate?
What should be done if a fire exists in a commercial-grade oven?
What should be done if a fire exists in a commercial-grade oven?
In handling hazardous materials incidents in a strip shopping center, what is the recommended initial focus?
In handling hazardous materials incidents in a strip shopping center, what is the recommended initial focus?
What is a common characteristic of electrical vault fires?
What is a common characteristic of electrical vault fires?
What is the most important action to take concerning electrical vault fires?
What is the most important action to take concerning electrical vault fires?
What should personnel do when breaking each large window during venting?
What should personnel do when breaking each large window during venting?
When is Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) appropriate to use?
When is Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) appropriate to use?
What potential hazard is associated with gas utilities during a fire in a strip shopping center?
What potential hazard is associated with gas utilities during a fire in a strip shopping center?
What should be done to a ventilation system if fire is detected in it?
What should be done to a ventilation system if fire is detected in it?
Which of the following indicates a potential structural collapse during firefighting operations?
Which of the following indicates a potential structural collapse during firefighting operations?
How should roof ventilation be conducted in relation to the fire's impact on the structure?
How should roof ventilation be conducted in relation to the fire's impact on the structure?
What method should be used to contain a laterally spreading fire in larger structures?
What method should be used to contain a laterally spreading fire in larger structures?
Where should firefighters position themselves if a structural collapse is anticipated?
Where should firefighters position themselves if a structural collapse is anticipated?
What type of glass is required where falling shards could present a hazard?
What type of glass is required where falling shards could present a hazard?
What is one indication of fire extension that should prompt firefighter action?
What is one indication of fire extension that should prompt firefighter action?
What is the primary construction method for exterior walls in strip malls?
What is the primary construction method for exterior walls in strip malls?
What should firefighters do if they suspect fire in concealed spaces?
What should firefighters do if they suspect fire in concealed spaces?
What construction feature is particularly prone to early collapse when exposed to heavy fire?
What construction feature is particularly prone to early collapse when exposed to heavy fire?
How are individual occupancies typically divided in strip malls?
How are individual occupancies typically divided in strip malls?
What structure component poses a higher risk of collapse when subjected to heavy fire conditions?
What structure component poses a higher risk of collapse when subjected to heavy fire conditions?
What types of roofing materials might be utilized in strip mall construction?
What types of roofing materials might be utilized in strip mall construction?
What is critical to ensure during roof ventilation operations?
What is critical to ensure during roof ventilation operations?
What feature is crucial for fire safety in the context of HVAC units on strip mall roofs?
What feature is crucial for fire safety in the context of HVAC units on strip mall roofs?
What is the best method for pulling ceilings during an attic fire?
What is the best method for pulling ceilings during an attic fire?
What should firefighters monitor for when using Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV)?
What should firefighters monitor for when using Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV)?
In strip mall construction, how are the wall partitions typically designed in relation to ceilings?
In strip mall construction, how are the wall partitions typically designed in relation to ceilings?
What is the recommended action if the parapet wall shows signs of potential failure?
What is the recommended action if the parapet wall shows signs of potential failure?
What is a common characteristic of doors used in strip malls?
What is a common characteristic of doors used in strip malls?
Which feature of strip malls presents a fire hazard due to fire extension?
Which feature of strip malls presents a fire hazard due to fire extension?
What is typically assumed about the cockloft in strip malls until verified otherwise?
What is typically assumed about the cockloft in strip malls until verified otherwise?
What is a key construction element of mixed construction in strip malls?
What is a key construction element of mixed construction in strip malls?
What is a common feature of front doors in strip malls to improve security?
What is a common feature of front doors in strip malls to improve security?
What type of construction is increasingly popular for commercial structures in South Florida?
What type of construction is increasingly popular for commercial structures in South Florida?
What is the typical support structure used for roofs in older strip mall buildings?
What is the typical support structure used for roofs in older strip mall buildings?
What is a primary concern when a fire spreads to the attic or cockloft area in a strip mall?
What is a primary concern when a fire spreads to the attic or cockloft area in a strip mall?
When is it appropriate to deploy unmanned master stream devices?
When is it appropriate to deploy unmanned master stream devices?
Which of the following is a critical step during primary search operations in a commercial occupancy?
Which of the following is a critical step during primary search operations in a commercial occupancy?
What hose size may be necessary for combating commercial fires?
What hose size may be necessary for combating commercial fires?
What complication can arise from large structures during fire control?
What complication can arise from large structures during fire control?
In the event of a suspected fire in vacant or abandoned structures, what should be considered?
In the event of a suspected fire in vacant or abandoned structures, what should be considered?
What action should crews take before advancing into a fire occupancy?
What action should crews take before advancing into a fire occupancy?
What is the recommended approach if the fire’s seat location is unknown?
What is the recommended approach if the fire’s seat location is unknown?
What should crews use to aid their search in disorienting floor plans of commercial occupancies?
What should crews use to aid their search in disorienting floor plans of commercial occupancies?
What should the initial attack focus on in an evolving fire scenario?
What should the initial attack focus on in an evolving fire scenario?
What risk is amplified by failing to check the overhead environment during firefighting?
What risk is amplified by failing to check the overhead environment during firefighting?
What must crews do when searching for potential victims in a commercial occupancy?
What must crews do when searching for potential victims in a commercial occupancy?
What is a factor that complicates locating a fire in a commercial occupancy?
What is a factor that complicates locating a fire in a commercial occupancy?
What is the primary reason for cooling the atmosphere with a straight stream before advancing into a fire?
What is the primary reason for cooling the atmosphere with a straight stream before advancing into a fire?
Why is it preferred to knock down the main body of fire from outside in certain situations?
Why is it preferred to knock down the main body of fire from outside in certain situations?
When checking for fire extension in attached exposures, what direction must fire travel be anticipated?
When checking for fire extension in attached exposures, what direction must fire travel be anticipated?
What is the recommended action if conditions remain too dangerous after initially cooling the atmosphere?
What is the recommended action if conditions remain too dangerous after initially cooling the atmosphere?
How should a suppression unit supply the fire department connection (FDC) when the involved occupancy is sprinklered?
How should a suppression unit supply the fire department connection (FDC) when the involved occupancy is sprinklered?
What action should be taken when entering an exposure with indications of fire inside?
What action should be taken when entering an exposure with indications of fire inside?
What is a critical safety measure when using master streams in firefighting?
What is a critical safety measure when using master streams in firefighting?
What should be taken into consideration when establishing water supply for serious fires?
What should be taken into consideration when establishing water supply for serious fires?
Where is the safest place to ladder most strip malls for access to the roof?
Where is the safest place to ladder most strip malls for access to the roof?
What is the purpose of ventilation prior to advancing into a working fire?
What is the purpose of ventilation prior to advancing into a working fire?
What is a key reason for placing ground/aerial ladders during an operation?
What is a key reason for placing ground/aerial ladders during an operation?
What determines how far crews should advance into a structure during a firefighting operation?
What determines how far crews should advance into a structure during a firefighting operation?
How should crews manage ventilation during an attack?
How should crews manage ventilation during an attack?
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Study Notes
Strip Malls Overview
- Strip malls are typically one- to two-story structures primarily housing retail and public assembly businesses, with some including residential units.
- Fires in strip malls pose higher hazards to firefighters due to their construction and occupancy types.
Firefighter Safety
- Firefighter safety must be prioritized over tactical concerns during fire incidents.
- Key considerations include potential facade collapse, undetected fires between ceilings, and hazards from heavy loads like HVAC units.
Construction Features
- Common construction materials include concrete block and stucco (CBS) walls, particularly for anchor stores, which often feature firewalls, alarms, and sprinklers.
- Roofs are typically supported by lightweight trusses and can collapse quickly under heavy fire conditions.
Types of Spaces
- Attic space is found above the ceiling and below the roof, while cocklofts are the area under flat roofs.
- Jumps in hose lines during fire operations can extend up to 400 feet to ensure quick firefighting response.
Mixed Occupancy
- Strip malls may have mixed occupancy, such as retail on the first floor and residential above.
- Interior wall partitions often do not extend to the ceiling, creating potential shared attic spaces that can facilitate fire spread.
Windows and Doors
- Front doors are often aluminum-framed with tempered glass and may have security bars.
- Storefronts can be constructed from various materials, including brick and concrete, topped with either impact glass or tempered glass.
Utility Considerations
- Individual stores typically have their own electrical meters and gas service associated with heating and cooking.
- Utility shut-off locations should be clearly identified for emergency access.
Fire Protection Systems
- Many strip malls have sprinkler systems, with larger stores heavily protected while smaller units may be unsprinklered.
- Fire Department Connections (FDC) may be located at strategic points away from the main structure to facilitate quick access.
Personnel Hazards
- Hazards include potential for facade and roof collapse, hazardous materials present, and risks from unsecured stock inside stores.
- Emergency responses must include communication of identified hazards to ensure personnel safety.
Apparatus Response and Placement
- The first arriving apparatus must perform size-ups to evaluate the situation and provide command structure.
- Positioning of suppression equipment is critical for effective water supply and fire attack, while aerial devices should prioritize access for laddering.
Tactical Considerations
- Command and control in strip mall fires require a cautious approach compared to residential fires due to greater risks.
- An offensive operational strategy is preferred unless conditions warrant defensive tactics.
Resource Management
- Rapid depletion of first alarm resources necessitates early request for additional alarms and designated staging areas to manage resources effectively.
- Multiple units may be needed to address extensive fire situations, requiring the coordination of additional divisions and assigns.### Fire Containment and Protection Strategies
- Early identification of fire containment potential is crucial; assess whether the fire can be contained to its origin or may spread.
- Once fire reaches the attic/cockloft, prompt action is essential to prevent loss of the entire structure.
- Crews must enter adjacent units with hoselines and inspect ceilings to hinder fire spread; skipping uninvolved areas may be necessary for rapid response.
- Commercial fires often require larger volumes of water and the use of 2-½” lines for effective firefighting.
Defensive Strategies
- If structural integrity is compromised, employ defensive tactics; roof support systems may quickly weaken under fire conditions.
- Utilize unmanned master stream devices from outside to apply water; caution is required in areas with potential collapse.
- Aerial ladder streams can be directed through windows for minimized risk to firefighting personnel.
Rescue Operations
- Prioritize search and rescue in upper-floor residences, ensuring no occupants are trapped.
- Expect minimal civilian life hazards in strip mall fires; search patterns should focus on secured areas where individuals may be trapped.
- Delay primary search until fire control measures are implemented; consider potential hidden individuals like security guards.
- Employ Thermal Imaging Cameras (TIC) and search lines to enhance search effectiveness in commercial buildings.
Fire Control Measures
- Locating a fire can be hindered by large structures, smoldering fires, confusing layouts, and access obstacles.
- Initial attack should focus on the occupancy of origin unless rapid extension threatens adjacent areas.
- All significant fires necessitate a dedicated water supply prior to advancing; multi-hydrant supply is advisable for redundancy.
- Use 1-¾” hoselines for interior advances when navigating turns or obstacles; larger hoselines may be necessary for advanced fires.
- Personnel must inspect the overhead environment to avoid dangers like flashover or collapse; ensure safety protocols are in place before advancing.
- Maintain an advance plan that allows for initial knockdown with ongoing assessment of structural stability.
Ventilation Considerations
- Ventilation should align with fire attack strategies; limit openings to front, rear, and roof vents.
- Vent windows prior to advancing in hazardous conditions must be executed with caution; this could lead to backdrafts.
- Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) should only be implemented after confirming fire extent; avoid concealed spaces during operations.
Salvage and Overhaul Techniques
- Perform thorough inspections in all directions from the involved area to detect fire extension.
- Check for fire spread in utility chases and areas where structural members penetrate fire separations.
Structural Collapse Indicators
- Be vigilant for collapse indicators like prolonged uncontrolled fires, bulging walls, water leaks, and structural movement.
- Position personnel and apparatus at a safe distance away from potential collapse zones, ideally 1.5 times the building's height.
Specific Fire Situations
Attic/Cockloft Fires
- Address rapidly progressing fires through common attic spaces with dual flanking attacks.
- Employ multiple crews for extensive damage control; utilize pike poles for ceiling pulls as needed.
Restaurant Fires
- Fires frequently emanate from the kitchen area in strip mall restaurants; secure gas utilities due to potential hazards.
- Inspect exhaust systems for grease fires, as these can often extend to roofs.
Hazardous Materials
- Recognize risks of hazardous materials in strip malls; respond with HazMat support following fire control.
Electrical Vault Fires
- Electrical vault fires are often transformer-related, usually localizing fire control efforts; do not enter energized vaults or use water within them.
- Ensure electricity is disconnected by Florida Power and Light (FPL) before attempting control measures.
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