I-B-14 Warehouse Fires 08/18/2020
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Questions and Answers

What type of structure are warehouses primarily classified as?

  • One-story structures (correct)
  • Multi-story buildings
  • Temporary structures
  • Residential homes

    • Which of the following poses significant hazards for firefighters during warehouse operations?

  • Industrial plant fires
  • Residential fires
  • Office building fires
  • Warehouse fires (correct)

    • What is the primary focus during firefighting operations in warehouse occupancies?

  • Minimizing water usage
  • Property conservation
  • Firefighter safety (correct)
  • Efficiency of the fire suppression system

    • What does the acronym CAN refer to in firefighting progress reports?

    <p>Conditions, Actions, Needs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of sprinkler system activates the deluge valve upon detecting fire?

    <p>Deluge sprinkler system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a loading dock or bay primarily used for?

    <p>Loading and unloading goods</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'cockloft' refer to in building structures?

    <p>The space between the ceiling and the roof</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of an overhead door in a warehouse?

    <p>To secure large structural openings</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of padlock is typically used to secure overhead sectional doors?

    <p>Padlock</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary construction material for most exterior swinging doors?

    <p>Aluminum and glass</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What hazard arises from improvised mezzanines in warehouses?

    <p>They may not be built to code.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of fire protection system is often required in warehouses based on storage type and square footage?

    <p>Sprinkler systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does inadequate labeling of electrical meters potentially lead to?

    <p>Confusion during emergency shut-off</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a recommended solution for entry into a locked overhead door?

    <p>Attempting to pick the lock</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of connection may be located on the front wall of the building for fire department access?

    <p>Fire Department Connection (FDC)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common hazard associated with high piles of stock in a warehouse?

    <p>They can collapse under certain conditions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a reason why using fire hose connections is discouraged inside warehouses?

    <p>They lead back to hose racks, not outside.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of hazard is posed by downed power lines in a warehouse emergency?

    <p>They can lead to electrocution hazards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one potential cause of roof collapses during firefighting operations?

    <p>Heavy body of fire burning out of control.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What risk is associated with cooking equipment in warehouses?

    <p>They require specific suppression systems.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should personnel be aware of when managing air in a smoke-filled building?

    <p>Understanding air management is critical</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary feature of a pre-action sprinkler system?

    <p>It has closed heads that provide localized water application.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which construction feature is typical for the vast majority of warehouses in Miami-Dade County?

    <p>Type 2 non-combustible construction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of roofing is most commonly used in newer warehouses?

    <p>Steel bar joists with metal decking.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant hazard of gypsum roof assemblies in warehouses?

    <p>They can collapse in under 10 minutes when exposed to fire.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How are individual occupancies separated in row warehouses?

    <p>By rated firewalls made of concrete block or drywall.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What risk do air conditioning units pose in warehouse settings?

    <p>They may cause roof collapse under fire conditions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common feature of drop ceilings in warehouses?

    <p>They are made from light gauge metal and are prone to early collapse.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the risks associated with high ceilings in warehouses?

    <p>They contain intense heat that may weaken the roof supports.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of roof is found in older warehouses that is considered stable under fire conditions?

    <p>Solid wood beam roofs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic of overhead doors in warehouse loading docks?

    <p>They are typically secured and may be heavier than conventional doors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common issue with large openings created to connect spaces in warehouses?

    <p>They may lack proper fire doors as required by code.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What challenge is associated with drop ceilings during firefighting operations?

    <p>They pose an entanglement hazard if they collapse.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of a Split Lay water supply evolution?

    <p>To establish a single supply line using two apparatuses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What indicates potential structural failure when assessing a building after a fire?

    <p>Rumbling noises and heavy puffs of smoke</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum distance personnel should maintain from a building if collapse is anticipated?

    <p>1.5 times the building’s height</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the first arriving suppression unit prioritize when responding to a fire?

    <p>Conducting a thorough size-up and determining fire extent</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should the officer-in-charge determine the course of exposure protection actions?

    <p>Immediately upon arrival at the scene</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic indicates that a roof may be in danger of structural failure?

    <p>Soft or spongy feeling as you walk on it</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action should be taken regarding hazards identified during the size-up?

    <p>Transmit the hazards over the radio and take mitigation action</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What function is NOT typically associated with the second arriving suppression unit?

    <p>Performing a thorough size-up</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is essential for the third arriving suppression unit if no water supply has been established?

    <p>Prioritize water supply establishment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should first arriving aerial apparatus position to maximize effectiveness?

    <p>In a way that facilitates hoseline deployment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What structural sign may indicate that a wall is under strain from fire conditions?

    <p>Cracks visible on the wall surface</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can elongated steel beams due to heat indicate?

    <p>Potential wall displacement or buckling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What might be a sign of failure when observing a roof structure?

    <p>Sagging of the metal truss or deck</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is critical to include in a CAN report to Command?

    <p>Structural concerns such as access problems and conditions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primary task should the third arriving suppression unit perform regarding fire conditions?

    <p>Opening up the rear to enhance ventilation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant disadvantage of advancing through office/showrooms during firefighting operations?

    <p>Limits TIC use</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it critical to secure overhead doors in an open position during firefighting?

    <p>To prevent the door from closing on crews</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When might it be acceptable to enter and attack from the office/showroom entry door?

    <p>If the fire is confined with no structural threats</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should crews continuously assess when advancing into a structure?

    <p>The structural integrity of the building</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of a back-up hoseline during firefighting operations?

    <p>To provide redundancy for attack crews</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be prioritized when managing a serious fire in a large warehouse?

    <p>Requesting additional alarm resources early</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done when attached exposures are suspected of fire extension?

    <p>Enter and search the exposure cautiously</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the first arriving rescue be prepared to perform, aside from delivering care?

    <p>Engage in firefighting activities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which areas should be particularly monitored for fire travel?

    <p>Cocklofts and utility chases</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should defensive strategies be considered during a warehouse fire?

    <p>When structural integrity is in question</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are elevated master streams advantageous after a roof has burned through?

    <p>They help prevent fire spread into uninvolved spaces</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is crucial to do before advancing an attack line inside a warehouse?

    <p>Ensure crews are positioned for ventilation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended action regarding hydrants in emergency situations?

    <p>Establish supply lines from multiple hydrants</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be avoided when conducting interior hoseline operations?

    <p>Opposing streams concurrent with hoselines</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What indicates a high priority for searching during warehouse firefighting operations?

    <p>A makeshift residence is located inside</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is essential for ground/aerial ladders during firefighting operations?

    <p>They should be positioned for ventilation and access</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the IC recognize for tasks requiring multiple units during an incident?

    <p>That teamwork is essential for effective execution</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should crews do if they encounter a poorly constructed area within a structure?

    <p>Assess and monitor the structural stability</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What could happen if master streams are directed into a small opening without caution?

    <p>Uncontrolled fire spread may occur</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to conduct a 360-degree drive-around during an incident?

    <p>To gather information on building conditions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what situation should water application to detached exposures be avoided?

    <p>When entering the structure is needed</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if the first arriving rescue unit is engaged in fire suppression?

    <p>Assign additional rescues for medical duties</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary method of fire suppression recommended for an energized electrical vault?

    <p>Using dry chemical or CO2 from the exterior</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor should be analyzed before deciding to go defensive?

    <p>The risk-benefit of the structural condition</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most critical action to take when responding to an electrical vault fire?

    <p>Disconnect the electrical service to the building</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common hazard associated with warehouse fires?

    <p>Rapid depletion of first alarm resources</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What occurs when heat from a fire underneath a metal deck roof raises the temperature of the deck itself?

    <p>It creates a self-sustaining fire with lateral burning</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical action upon the early view of a warehouse roof during a fire incident?

    <p>Report any visible sags or dead loads</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be determined before conducting operations on a metal deck roof during a fire?

    <p>Roof stability</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should incident command prioritize regarding ventilation during a significant fire in a warehouse?

    <p>Proper positioning for ventilation should be ensured before attack lines are advanced</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What hazardous condition is created by flaming drops of tar during a fire beneath a metal deck?

    <p>It can ignite other areas below the deck</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which material is required for the construction of electrical vaults to limit fire spread?

    <p>Poured concrete on all six sides</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to avoid entering an energized vault during a fire emergency?

    <p>There is a risk of electrical shock and arcing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done to manage a fire that has ignited in the roofing asphalt of a metal deck?

    <p>Cool the underside of the metal deck and remove roofing material</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be employed during searches conducted without the use of hoselines?

    <p>Search Line</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential hazard when searching uninhabited structures?

    <p>Vagrants or homeless individuals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should the initial attack be initiated when dealing with a fire in a building?

    <p>In the occupancy of origin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What could complicate locating and accessing a fire in a warehouse?

    <p>Large structures with confusing layouts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might a sprinkler system not completely extinguish a fire in a warehouse?

    <p>Stock is often too close together</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical factor regarding hoseline deployment when advancing into a large building?

    <p>More firefighters may be needed the further the hoseline is advanced</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should firefighters do to check for fire above their heads before advancing into a structure?

    <p>Remove or poke through the ceiling with a pike pole</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an important consideration when supplying a sprinkler system during fire attacks?

    <p>It can help keep the fire in check before entry</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can firefighters assess the overhead environment's temperature during an advance?

    <p>By directing a short burst of water overhead</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be considered regarding hoseline types for advanced fires upon arrival?

    <p>Employing 2-½ inch hoselines may be necessary</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a sign that the fire in a closed building has potentially intensified?

    <p>Sudden increase in visible flames</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is recommended to help fire crews when navigating interior obstacles?

    <p>Employ teamwork to assist each other in hose advancement</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if smoke is observed discharging from locations far from the origin of a fire?

    <p>Investigate the smoke source immediately but cautiously</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What technique is effective for checking for potential hazards in a ceiling area?

    <p>Using a pike pole or hose stream to disturb the ceiling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it essential to understand the functionality of various hoseline sizes in fire suppression?

    <p>Different hoseline sizes can adapt to fire severity and building size</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be the approach if fire is suspected in concealed spaces during Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV)?

    <p>Avoid using PPV until the extent and path of the fire are known.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition must be checked when conducting a roof report?

    <p>The stability and sagging of the roof.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should overhead doors be managed after the initial forced entry?

    <p>Subsequent doors should be opened from the interior whenever safely possible.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of ventilation in a fire situation?

    <p>To enhance visibility or intensify fire signals to find the fire's location.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method is NOT recommended for indicating the location of deep-seated fire?

    <p>Excessive ventilation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must personnel do while walking on the roof during fire operations?

    <p>Sound the roof with a tool to check for stability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should firefighters approach a situation when hazardous materials (HazMats) are discovered?

    <p>Activate the Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be done to roof operations if the fire has directly exposed the roof support assembly?

    <p>Roof operations should only take place in safe locations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should operations involving roof cutting and ventilation be performed?

    <p>Early before the fire has weakened the supportive structure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be prioritized during salvage and overhaul operations?

    <p>Checking for fire extension in all directions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it crucial to remain vigilant for waterlogged materials during overhaul activities?

    <p>To avoid potential collapse from sudden shifts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which approach should be employed if adequate ventilation is not possible?

    <p>Creative uses of fans and unconventional methods may be necessary.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What condition must be evaluated when sounding the roof?

    <p>Potential presence of concealed fire within the building.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary concern when opening overhead doors during emergency operations?

    <p>Ensuring the doors do not obstruct firefighting efforts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Warehouse Overview

    • Warehouses are primarily one-story structures designated for various business activities, including storage and manufacturing.
    • Temporary residences may sometimes be established within a warehouse.
    • Fire incidents in warehouses present higher hazards to firefighters than civilians due to their unique construction and occupancy features.
    • Effective pre-incident planning is crucial for ensuring firefighter safety during warehouse fires.

    Key Terms

    • Cockloft: Space between the ceiling and roof in buildings with flat roofs.
    • CAN (Conditions, Actions, Needs): Acronym used in progress reports for reporting firefighting status.
    • Deluge Sprinkler System: Activates water application through open sprinkler heads via heat detection.
    • Jumpline Extension Evolution: Involves extending a jumpline of up to 400’ to quickly establish a handline.
    • Loading Dock/Bay: Area for loading and unloading goods, typically featuring overhead doors.

    Construction Features of Warehouses

    • Majority are classified as Type 2 non-combustible, with risks of early collapse in fire conditions.
    • Wall Construction: Often made of concrete block, steel, or reinforced tilt-up concrete.
    • Roof Styles: Generally flat roofs designed for open floor spaces, with modern options including steel bar joists and lightweight materials.
    • Older roofs may consist of wooden beams and asphalt, remaining stable under fire conditions compared to newer designs.

    Fire Safety Considerations

    • Warehouses must have sprinkler systems based on storage types and sizes, with potential use of specialized systems like pre-action or foam.
    • Overhead doors in loading areas pose forcible entry challenges due to security measures.
    • Fire protection includes Fire Department Connections (FDC) and potential internal standpipes.

    Personnel Hazards

    • Key risks include air supply management, electrical hazards from downed lines, and potential roof/structure collapses.
    • Presence of hazardous materials, high-piled stock, and heavy HVAC units can complicate firefighting efforts.
    • Warning signs of structural collapse include sagging walls, cracking, and excessive smoke or water leakage.

    Incident Command and Response

    • First apparatus must conduct size-up, establish command, and identify hazards.
    • Suppression units should prioritize locating the fire, securing water supplies, and establishing exposure protection.
    • Aerial apparatus positioning and hose deployment must account for overhead obstructions and access points.
    • Rear access for the third arriving unit is critical, ensuring water supply and ventilation are established without delay.

    Operational Procedures

    • Initial Actions: First unit identifies fire extent; subsequent units must establish water supply and assist in line placement.
    • Size-Up Reports: Include CAN information and should assess structural integrity and any hazards to personnel.
    • Apparatus Positioning: Prioritize staging for efficiency and safety, with attention to minimizing congestion for responding units.

    Emergency Equipment and Layout

    • Electrical meters for warehouses may be located at various points; knowledge of these locations aids in emergency response.
    • Natural gas systems should be considered, with close attention to potential leaks during firefighting operations.
    • Ground floors are typically concrete, with potential for improvised upper storage areas that can pose added risks.

    Conclusion

    • Thorough understanding of warehouse construction, fire hazards, and response protocols is essential for firefighter safety and effective emergency operations.### Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC) Functions
    • Units should be ready to perform RIC functions as per NFPA 1500 if other assignments are unavailable.

    First Arriving Rescue

    • Must be prepared for firefighting activities unless providing patient care.
    • Should assist suppression crews or complete tasks for later responding units.
    • Can perform a 360-degree drive-around for situational awareness in large warehouses, reporting conditions to the Incident Commander (IC) using a CAN report.
    • Must not block access for arriving apparatus.

    Second Arriving Rescue

    • Can be utilized for medical or rehab operations if the first arriving rescue is engaged in firefighting.
    • All rescues on scene should not be committed solely to fire suppression tasks.

    Tactical Considerations

    Command and Control

    • Approach warehouse fires cautiously—different from residential firefighting due to increased hazards.
    • Ensure continuous water supply, backup lines, and crews positioned for ventilation before interior fire attack.
    • Recognize tasks needing multiple units; collaborative efforts enhance safety and effectiveness.
    • Implement Division/Group Supervisors as incidents evolve, especially in critical operations.
    • Early consideration for additional alarms is crucial for resource management in large fires.
    • Avoid conflicts between streams; exterior defensive operations can utilize opposing streams if managed correctly.
    • Early roof inspection is important for decision-making—monitor for structural integrity and fire conditions.

    Strategy

    • Offensive tactics are preferred unless structural stability is compromised or hazardous materials are involved.
    • Defensive strategies become necessary if the fire threatens structural integrity, especially with truss systems in warehouses.
    • Consider HazMat protocols if hazardous materials are detected.
    • Conduct thorough searches for makeshift residences within warehouses, as these can be challenging to identify.

    Rescue Operations

    • Prioritize searches in suspected makeshift residences if present; otherwise, civilian life risk may be low.
    • Delaying primary searches may be necessary until fire control is established.
    • Utilize Thermal Imaging Cameras (TIC) for visibility in complicated warehouse structures and always have a search line.
    • Acces and search vacant structures with caution due to potential hazards.

    Fire Control Tactics

    • Complications in fire location include large structures, smoldering fires, and various obstructions.
    • Initial attacks should target the origin of the fire unless rapid extension threatens other exposures.
    • Consider supplying sprinkler systems during initial attack preparations if equipped.
    • Fire conditions may worsen upon opening confined spaces; monitoring vital.
    • Establish a dedicated water supply for all significant fires—avoid reliance on single hydrants.
    • Utilize 2-½” hoselines for advanced fires, reducing size post-knockdown.

    Hose Management

    • Maintain back-up hoselines and ensure situational awareness to avoid flashovers or structural collapses.
    • Employ a variety of tactics for assessing overhead environments before advancing into occupied structures.
    • Opt for entry through overhead doors for better access and fire attack opportunities while securing them.

    Ventilation Techniques

    • Coordinate ventilation efforts with fire attack; consider opening high windows and skylights.
    • Use Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) with caution, ensuring fire extent and path are known.
    • Ventilation may be needed to signal concealed fires; creative and unconventional methods could be required.

    Roof Operations

    • Conduct a roof report to assess structural conditions; access may involve thorough walking and sounding.
    • Develop situational awareness before reporting back to the IC regarding structural conditions and fire location.### Roof Construction and Support Systems
    • Inspect roof covering and deck construction; consider creating a Kerf Cut inspection hole.
    • Access uninvolved areas for support system confirmation by removing the dropdown ceiling.
    • Watch for visible smoke, fire, and hot spots during inspections using a Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC).
    • Note any structural instability, sagging, and location of firewalls in relation to the fire area.
    • Identify concentrated loads and dead loads in areas where personnel operate, especially near the main fire and exposures.
    • Be aware of pre-existing vent points such as skylights and hatchways, as well as unseen building conditions.

    Roof Operations

    • Conduct roof operations like cutting vent holes and opening skylights early to avoid risks from a weakened structure.
    • Sound the roof with a tool while walking to prevent fall-through hazards, even with light fire presence.
    • Truss use increases risk during operations over a fire; conduct operations only in safe zones.
    • The Incident Commander (IC) and Officer in Charge (OIC) will decide when to initiate roof operations based on a roof report.
    • Follow established vertical ventilation guidelines (SOP I-B-9 Fireground Procedures) and ensure adequate resources are available.

    Salvage and Overhaul

    • Inspect for fire extension in all directions from the involved areas, including along utility chases.
    • Use charged hoselines for any exposure with indications of fire.
    • Equipment like forklifts may be necessary for removing smoldering debris.
    • Watch for potentially hazardous, waterlogged materials that could shift or collapse.
    • Shut off sprinkler systems post-fire control to minimize water damage but keep the control valve manned for potential re-ignition.
    • Use TIC to trace sprinkler systems and manage residual water in the piping effectively.
    • Make efforts to salvage undamaged equipment and materials.

    Specific Fire Situations - Hazardous Materials

    • Warehouses typically have HazMats used in industrial processes; recognize their presence as a strong potential risk.
    • Follow the Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan (P&P III-C-10) when HazMats are suspected.
    • Limited fire control efforts may be possible when safe to manage HazMat risks.

    Specific Fire Situations - Electrical Vault Fires

    • Electrical vault fires often stem from burning transformers; generally manageable due to building codes requiring robust concrete construction.
    • Rarely does fire extend beyond vaults, but mitigation may be necessary before de-energizing, using dry chemical agents from outside.
    • Prioritize disconnection of electrical service by Florida Power & Light (FPL) and avoid personnel entry into energized vaults.

    Specific Fire Situations - Metal Deck Roof Fires

    • Metal deck roofs with roofing asphalt can lead to self-contained deck fires when heat from below ignites the asphalt.
    • Once ignited, fires can spread laterally due to the liquefaction and burning of asphalt between the roof and metal deck.
    • Flaming tar drops can create external hazards due to lateral fire spread.
    • Effective extinguishment includes cooling the underside of the metal deck and opening the roof to manage stability before operations.

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    Explore the unique challenges and hazards that warehouses present to firefighters. This quiz covers the construction features, occupancy types, and strategies for pre-incident planning to enhance safety during firefighting operations. Prepare to deepen your understanding of warehouse fire risks.

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