I-B-14 Warehouse Fires 08/18/2020

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?

Conditions, Actions, Needs Signup and view all the answers

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

Deluge sprinkler system Signup and view all the answers

What is a loading dock or bay primarily used for?

Loading and unloading goods Signup and view all the answers

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

The space between the ceiling and the roof Signup and view all the answers

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

To secure large structural openings Signup and view all the answers

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

Padlock Signup and view all the answers

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

Aluminum and glass Signup and view all the answers

What hazard arises from improvised mezzanines in warehouses?

They may not be built to code. Signup and view all the answers

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

Sprinkler systems Signup and view all the answers

What does inadequate labeling of electrical meters potentially lead to?

Confusion during emergency shut-off Signup and view all the answers

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

Attempting to pick the lock Signup and view all the answers

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

Fire Department Connection (FDC) Signup and view all the answers

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

They can collapse under certain conditions. Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

They can lead to electrocution hazards. Signup and view all the answers

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

Heavy body of fire burning out of control. Signup and view all the answers

What risk is associated with cooking equipment in warehouses?

They require specific suppression systems. Signup and view all the answers

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

Understanding air management is critical Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

Type 2 non-combustible construction. Signup and view all the answers

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

Steel bar joists with metal decking. Signup and view all the answers

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

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

How are individual occupancies separated in row warehouses?

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

What risk do air conditioning units pose in warehouse settings?

They may cause roof collapse under fire conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of drop ceilings in warehouses?

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

What are the risks associated with high ceilings in warehouses?

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

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

Solid wood beam roofs. Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

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

What challenge is associated with drop ceilings during firefighting operations?

They pose an entanglement hazard if they collapse. Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

Rumbling noises and heavy puffs of smoke Signup and view all the answers

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

1.5 times the building’s height Signup and view all the answers

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

Conducting a thorough size-up and determining fire extent Signup and view all the answers

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

Immediately upon arrival at the scene Signup and view all the answers

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

Soft or spongy feeling as you walk on it Signup and view all the answers

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

Transmit the hazards over the radio and take mitigation action Signup and view all the answers

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

Performing a thorough size-up Signup and view all the answers

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

Prioritize water supply establishment Signup and view all the answers

What should first arriving aerial apparatus position to maximize effectiveness?

In a way that facilitates hoseline deployment Signup and view all the answers

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

Cracks visible on the wall surface Signup and view all the answers

What can elongated steel beams due to heat indicate?

Potential wall displacement or buckling Signup and view all the answers

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

Sagging of the metal truss or deck Signup and view all the answers

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

Structural concerns such as access problems and conditions Signup and view all the answers

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

Opening up the rear to enhance ventilation Signup and view all the answers

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

Limits TIC use Signup and view all the answers

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

To prevent the door from closing on crews Signup and view all the answers

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

If the fire is confined with no structural threats Signup and view all the answers

What should crews continuously assess when advancing into a structure?

The structural integrity of the building Signup and view all the answers

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

To provide redundancy for attack crews Signup and view all the answers

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

Requesting additional alarm resources early Signup and view all the answers

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

Enter and search the exposure cautiously Signup and view all the answers

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

Engage in firefighting activities Signup and view all the answers

Which areas should be particularly monitored for fire travel?

Cocklofts and utility chases Signup and view all the answers

When should defensive strategies be considered during a warehouse fire?

When structural integrity is in question Signup and view all the answers

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

They help prevent fire spread into uninvolved spaces Signup and view all the answers

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

Ensure crews are positioned for ventilation Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action regarding hydrants in emergency situations?

Establish supply lines from multiple hydrants Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided when conducting interior hoseline operations?

Opposing streams concurrent with hoselines Signup and view all the answers

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

A makeshift residence is located inside Signup and view all the answers

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

They should be positioned for ventilation and access Signup and view all the answers

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

That teamwork is essential for effective execution Signup and view all the answers

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

Assess and monitor the structural stability Signup and view all the answers

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

Uncontrolled fire spread may occur Signup and view all the answers

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

To gather information on building conditions Signup and view all the answers

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

When entering the structure is needed Signup and view all the answers

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

Assign additional rescues for medical duties Signup and view all the answers

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

Using dry chemical or CO2 from the exterior Signup and view all the answers

What factor should be analyzed before deciding to go defensive?

The risk-benefit of the structural condition Signup and view all the answers

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

Disconnect the electrical service to the building Signup and view all the answers

What is a common hazard associated with warehouse fires?

Rapid depletion of first alarm resources 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?

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

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

Report any visible sags or dead loads Signup and view all the answers

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

Roof stability Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

It can ignite other areas below the deck Signup and view all the answers

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

Poured concrete on all six sides Signup and view all the answers

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

There is a risk of electrical shock and arcing 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?

Cool the underside of the metal deck and remove roofing material Signup and view all the answers

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

Search Line Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential hazard when searching uninhabited structures?

Vagrants or homeless individuals Signup and view all the answers

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

In the occupancy of origin Signup and view all the answers

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

Large structures with confusing layouts Signup and view all the answers

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

Stock is often too close together Signup and view all the answers

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

More firefighters may be needed the further the hoseline is advanced Signup and view all the answers

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

Remove or poke through the ceiling with a pike pole Signup and view all the answers

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

It can help keep the fire in check before entry Signup and view all the answers

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

By directing a short burst of water overhead Signup and view all the answers

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

Employing 2-½ inch hoselines may be necessary Signup and view all the answers

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

Sudden increase in visible flames Signup and view all the answers

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

Employ teamwork to assist each other in hose advancement Signup and view all the answers

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

Investigate the smoke source immediately but cautiously Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

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

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

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

Which condition must be checked when conducting a roof report?

The stability and sagging of the roof. Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

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

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

Excessive ventilation. Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

Activate the Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan. Signup and view all the answers

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

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

When should operations involving roof cutting and ventilation be performed?

Early before the fire has weakened the supportive structure. Signup and view all the answers

What should be prioritized during salvage and overhaul operations?

Checking for fire extension in all directions. Signup and view all the answers

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

To avoid potential collapse from sudden shifts. Signup and view all the answers

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

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

What condition must be evaluated when sounding the roof?

Potential presence of concealed fire within the building. Signup and view all the answers

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

Ensuring the doors do not obstruct firefighting efforts. 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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Description

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.