I-B-12 Strip Mall Occupancy Fires 12/15/2020

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

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?

Cockloft

Canopy

Attic (correct)

Flue space

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?

Mercantile occupancy Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum length that a pre-connected jumpline can be extended?

400 feet Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'scrub area' refer to in firefighting?

The effective reach of an aerial ladder Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a portable standpipe evolution?

To allow quick access to hoses on different floors Signup and view all the answers

What happens to plate glass when it shatters?

It creates irregular-shaped shards Signup and view all the answers

What type of door is commonly used at the rear of businesses for heavy security?

Swinging door Signup and view all the answers

Which material is NOT typically part of a storefront's construction?

Plastic Signup and view all the answers

What is used to secure a rolling overhead door before entering the structure?

Pike pole or appropriate tool Signup and view all the answers

What type of glass is typically installed in new constructions without hurricane shutters?

Impact glass Signup and view all the answers

Where are electrical meters commonly located in a strip mall?

On the exterior rear or side of the building Signup and view all the answers

What construction feature is commonly found at the top of a storefront configuration?

Reinforced concrete tie beam Signup and view all the answers

Which hazardous condition can occur due to heavy dead loads on a roof?

Roof collapse Signup and view all the answers

Which tool is best used for forcing inward swinging doors?

Ratcheting forcible entry tool (RFT) Signup and view all the answers

What is a common hazard found between the roof and ceiling that can go undetected?

Undetected fire Signup and view all the answers

Where might the Fire Department Connection (FDC) be located in relation to the building?

Near a fire hydrant or at the rear of the building Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the first arriving apparatus on the scene?

To undertake firefighting activities Signup and view all the answers

What must be done if personnel hazards are identified at an incident?

They must be transmitted over the radio and mitigated. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a type of gas supplied to certain commercial occupancies?

Natural Gas or LPG Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for an explosion that may occur from boiled liquid in a container?

Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion (BLEVE) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the Rescue crew during initial fire suppression?

To assist with first suppression or perform tasks assigned to later units Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an essential initial action for the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) upon arrival?

Determining the need for exposure protection Signup and view all the answers

Where should the first arriving Engine/Tanker apparatus be positioned?

At the front of the fire occupancy Signup and view all the answers

What is a priority task for the second arriving suppression crew?

Establishing a water supply and ensuring the initial attack line is operating Signup and view all the answers

What is one critical function that the third arriving suppression crew must prioritize?

Establishing a water supply if it hasn't been done yet Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is NOT part of the responsibilities of the third arriving suppression?

Assessing access issues at the front of the structure Signup and view all the answers

What should the fourth arriving suppression crew be prepared to fulfill?

Assume NFPA 1500 compliant Rapid Intervention Crew functions Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant reason for slow and cautious approaches in strip mall fires?

Hazards presented are greater than in residential fires Signup and view all the answers

What should the Incident Commander (IC) recognize about certain tasks during an incident response?

Some tasks require multiple crews for effective completion Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should be done if a serious fire rapidly depletes first alarm resources?

Request additional alarms early Signup and view all the answers

What practice should be avoided during interior hoseline operations?

Opposing streams concurrent with hoseline operations Signup and view all the answers

In regard to the arrangement of rescue units, when should a second Rescue unit be utilized?

If the first arriving Rescue is engaged in fire suppression Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended operation for Aerial apparatus in fire situations?

Maximizing the use of the aerial device for laddering and master stream applications Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action if there are indications of fire inside the exposure?

Enter the occupancy with a charged hoseline Signup and view all the answers

Where do most fires in strip shopping centers generally originate?

In the kitchen area at the rear of the structure Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a fire exists in a commercial-grade oven?

Allow the fire to burn itself out while securing utilities Signup and view all the answers

In handling hazardous materials incidents in a strip shopping center, what is the recommended initial focus?

Product identification, isolation, and scene stabilization Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of electrical vault fires?

They generally do not present serious fire control issues Signup and view all the answers

What is the most important action to take concerning electrical vault fires?

Have Florida Power and Light disconnect the electrical service Signup and view all the answers

What should personnel do when breaking each large window during venting?

Retreat to a safe position before moving on Signup and view all the answers

When is Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) appropriate to use?

Only after identifying concealed fire spaces Signup and view all the answers

What potential hazard is associated with gas utilities during a fire in a strip shopping center?

They pose a risk of explosion and must be secured Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to a ventilation system if fire is detected in it?

Inspect it thoroughly for breaks and accumulated grease Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following indicates a potential structural collapse during firefighting operations?

Heavy body of fire burning out of control for 20 minutes Signup and view all the answers

How should roof ventilation be conducted in relation to the fire's impact on the structure?

Only after determining that the fire has weakened the structure Signup and view all the answers

What method should be used to contain a laterally spreading fire in larger structures?

Flanking the fire from underneath Signup and view all the answers

Where should firefighters position themselves if a structural collapse is anticipated?

Away from walls and the center of the structure Signup and view all the answers

What type of glass is required where falling shards could present a hazard?

Tempered glass Signup and view all the answers

What is one indication of fire extension that should prompt firefighter action?

Walls leaking smoke or water Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary construction method for exterior walls in strip malls?

Concrete block and stucco Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters do if they suspect fire in concealed spaces?

Avoid PPV until confirmed fire is contained Signup and view all the answers

What construction feature is particularly prone to early collapse when exposed to heavy fire?

Roof support systems Signup and view all the answers

How are individual occupancies typically divided in strip malls?

Drywall partitions Signup and view all the answers

What structure component poses a higher risk of collapse when subjected to heavy fire conditions?

Steel beams over show windows Signup and view all the answers

What types of roofing materials might be utilized in strip mall construction?

Metal and tile Signup and view all the answers

What is critical to ensure during roof ventilation operations?

Conducting a visual inspection of the interior before proceeding Signup and view all the answers

What feature is crucial for fire safety in the context of HVAC units on strip mall roofs?

Weight and structural integrity Signup and view all the answers

What is the best method for pulling ceilings during an attic fire?

Coordinate multiple crews for rapid execution Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters monitor for when using Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV)?

Conditions both inside and outside the building Signup and view all the answers

In strip mall construction, how are the wall partitions typically designed in relation to ceilings?

Ending above the drop ceiling Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action if the parapet wall shows signs of potential failure?

Withdraw personnel until a thorough inspection is conducted Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of doors used in strip malls?

Tubular aluminum frame with tempered glass Signup and view all the answers

Which feature of strip malls presents a fire hazard due to fire extension?

Overhanging roof facades Signup and view all the answers

What is typically assumed about the cockloft in strip malls until verified otherwise?

It is one continuous space Signup and view all the answers

What is a key construction element of mixed construction in strip malls?

Assuming the weakest characteristics Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of front doors in strip malls to improve security?

Security bars Signup and view all the answers

What type of construction is increasingly popular for commercial structures in South Florida?

Tilt-up construction Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical support structure used for roofs in older strip mall buildings?

Wood or metal trusses Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary concern when a fire spreads to the attic or cockloft area in a strip mall?

Loss of the entire strip mall is probable. Signup and view all the answers

When is it appropriate to deploy unmanned master stream devices?

Once structural integrity is in question. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a critical step during primary search operations in a commercial occupancy?

Expect individuals trapped in locations preventing self-egress. Signup and view all the answers

What hose size may be necessary for combating commercial fires?

2-½ inch lines may be required. Signup and view all the answers

What complication can arise from large structures during fire control?

They can contain smoldering fires producing large amounts of smoke. Signup and view all the answers

In the event of a suspected fire in vacant or abandoned structures, what should be considered?

Always assume vagrants or homeless individuals may be present. Signup and view all the answers

What action should crews take before advancing into a fire occupancy?

Check for the presence of fire overhead. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach if the fire’s seat location is unknown?

Deploy 1-¾ inch hoselines for agility. Signup and view all the answers

What should crews use to aid their search in disorienting floor plans of commercial occupancies?

Thermal Imaging Cameras (TIC). Signup and view all the answers

What should the initial attack focus on in an evolving fire scenario?

The occupancy of origin unless conditions dictate otherwise. Signup and view all the answers

What risk is amplified by failing to check the overhead environment during firefighting?

Being caught in a potential flashover. Signup and view all the answers

What must crews do when searching for potential victims in a commercial occupancy?

Employ search lines and safety protocols. Signup and view all the answers

What is a factor that complicates locating a fire in a commercial occupancy?

Limited access due to the layout and obstructions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for cooling the atmosphere with a straight stream before advancing into a fire?

To prevent backdraft formation Signup and view all the answers

Why is it preferred to knock down the main body of fire from outside in certain situations?

To preserve the roof's structural integrity Signup and view all the answers

When checking for fire extension in attached exposures, what direction must fire travel be anticipated?

In four lateral directions and vertically Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action if conditions remain too dangerous after initially cooling the atmosphere?

Ventilate the front show windows Signup and view all the answers

How should a suppression unit supply the fire department connection (FDC) when the involved occupancy is sprinklered?

From the rear of the building Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken when entering an exposure with indications of fire inside?

Use a charged hoseline before entering Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical safety measure when using master streams in firefighting?

Monitoring for fire spread in uninvolved spaces Signup and view all the answers

What should be taken into consideration when establishing water supply for serious fires?

Establishing a dedicated water supply Signup and view all the answers

Where is the safest place to ladder most strip malls for access to the roof?

From the rear of the building Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of ventilation prior to advancing into a working fire?

To enhance visibility and safety for firefighters Signup and view all the answers

What is a key reason for placing ground/aerial ladders during an operation?

To provide a secondary means of egress Signup and view all the answers

What determines how far crews should advance into a structure during a firefighting operation?

Visibility and structural assessment Signup and view all the answers

How should crews manage ventilation during an attack?

Coordinate all ventilation with the fire attack Signup and view all the answers

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.

Studying That Suits You

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

Description

This quiz provides an overview of fire safety measures and construction features specific to strip malls. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing firefighter safety and understanding various types of spaces within these structures. Test your knowledge on the challenges faced during fire incidents in strip mall environments.