Ch 7 pg 178-184

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Questions and Answers

What is a critical reason for checking vertical voids in a building?

They provide pathways for fire extension. (correct)

They contain essential plumbing components.

They are often insulated, preventing fire spread.

They are usually easy to locate and inspect.

Why are cocklofts particularly concerning during a fire inspection?

They allow for rapid horizontal fire spread. (correct)

They contain minimal flammable materials.

They are made from non-combustible materials.

They are easily visible and accessed.

What should be examined in addition to the vertical shafts during an inspection?

Horizontal voids such as cocklofts. (correct)

All external building materials.

The landscaping around the building.

The electrical wiring systems.

What major risk is associated with embers dropping from shafts?

They can ignite flammable materials below. Signup and view all the answers

How does vertical fire spread compare with horizontal fire spread?

Vertical spread is generally faster than horizontal spread. Signup and view all the answers

What has changed concerning the location of horizontal voids in buildings?

They are increasingly present throughout the entire structure. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor contributes to the presence of horizontal voids in building designs?

Adoption of lightweight parallel-chord trusses. Signup and view all the answers

Historically, where were horizontal voids predominantly located?

Underneath the roof in the top floor. Signup and view all the answers

What is a distinctive feature of modern building practices regarding voids?

Void spaces exist frequently between ceiling floors. Signup and view all the answers

Why might lightweight parallel-chord trusses be significant in construction?

They enable innovative designs with more horizontal voids. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for examining the floor directly above a fire?

To find potential points of fire extension Signup and view all the answers

In a brick and wood-joist apartment house fire, which area requires greater examination?

Interior partitions Signup and view all the answers

Which construction feature complicates fire extension in older buildings with lowered ceilings?

Interconnected vertical plumbing voids Signup and view all the answers

When firefighters encounter a lack of information, what should they examine first?

Poke-throughs Signup and view all the answers

What type of construction would a cellar fire in an old, wood-frame house likely involve?

Balloon-frame construction Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary risk associated with aerial devices in relation to power lines?

They conduct electricity from far away. Signup and view all the answers

Under which condition should you never extend or retract a telescoping device?

When a firefighter is holding onto the device. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of overhaul during firefighting operations?

To prevent further fire loss by exposing hidden fire. Signup and view all the answers

Why might a rekindle of fire be more serious than the original fire?

The area would likely be left unattended by firefighters. Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the term 'precontrol' in firefighting overhaul?

Overhauling while the fire is still active. Signup and view all the answers

What can excessive damage during overhaul lead to?

Public dissatisfaction and damage to the department's reputation. Signup and view all the answers

Which action is considered a proper method of overhaul?

Opening up areas with visible charred materials. Signup and view all the answers

What condition may facilitate arcing of electricity during firefighting?

Presence of water creating a conductive film. Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided during overhaul to ensure safety?

Creating openings without visible justification. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of overhaul, what differentiates a good job from a bad one?

Maintaining minimal physical damage versus unnecessary destruction. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of using thermal imaging cameras (TICs) for firefighters?

They allow firefighters to see heat visually and locate sources directly. Signup and view all the answers

During postcontrol overhauling, what is emphasized besides speed?

Reducing unnecessary damage Signup and view all the answers

What visual signals might indicate hidden fire during inspection?

Bubbling or blistering paint Signup and view all the answers

Which material's surface change indicates it is still hot enough to reignite?

Class A combustibles with gray ash Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters prioritize when making openings during the postcontrol process?

Justifiable openings that consider both firefighters and property owners Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of balloon framing allows for rapid fire extension?

Concealed paths that enable fire to spread vertically. Signup and view all the answers

What is a necessary skill for firefighters when determining whether to make an opening in a fire control situation?

Utilizing a wide range of the five senses Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a property of thermal imaging cameras?

They measure the exact temperature of fire. Signup and view all the answers

What audible indicators suggest the presence of fire in a smoke-filled area?

Crackling and popping noises Signup and view all the answers

Why is it risky for firefighters to touch objects in a fire area?

Hot surfaces can lead to severe burns Signup and view all the answers

What action should firefighters take if they hear combustion sounds without visible flames?

Immediately call for a charged hoseline Signup and view all the answers

What is the ignition temperature range for common combustibles?

400°F to 600°F Signup and view all the answers

What does an inconsistent smoke smell typically indicate?

Smoke is being transported through other systems. Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided when firefighters are performing overhaul operations?

Indiscriminately grabbing objects Signup and view all the answers

Why was the HVAC mechanical room considered in the evaluation of the smoke issue?

HVAC can circulate smoke throughout the building. Signup and view all the answers

What role do elevators play in potential smoke movement?

They can create pressure differences in enclosed spaces. Signup and view all the answers

What was the result of inspecting the HVAC mechanical room?

The inspection yielded negative results. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the key benefits of using thermal imaging cameras (TICs) mentioned in the content?

Being the only unit with TICs in Manhattan Signup and view all the answers

How did the investment in TICs reportedly impact fire departments in New Jersey?

Improved safety and reduced injuries Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributed to the increasing affordability of thermal imaging cameras?

Technological advancements and popularity Signup and view all the answers

What function did Rescue Company 1 use their thermal imaging cameras for?

Assessing hazardous material situations Signup and view all the answers

What aspect did the personal anecdote emphasize about the usage of TICs?

Their influence on tactical decision-making Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the 15-second, 2-minute rule when assessing a wall or surface?

To evaluate surface temperature changes over time. Signup and view all the answers

How does prolonged exposure to smoke specifically affect a firefighter's sense of smell?

It leads to a complete loss of smell over time. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it advised for firefighters to continue wearing SCBA during the overhaul stage?

It maintains the ability to smell and protects their lungs. Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters be cautious about regarding visible wisps during the overhaul process?

They might be steam rather than smoke. Signup and view all the answers

What recommendation follows if a firefighter can leave their hand on a suspect wall for 15-20 seconds without discomfort?

The evaluation should be repeated after another 2 minutes. Signup and view all the answers

What is typically the least utilized sense by firefighters during overhauling operations?

Smell Signup and view all the answers

After ventilation during the overhaul stage, what can firefighters utilize their sense of smell for?

To differentiate between burnt materials and smoke. Signup and view all the answers

What factor can lead inexperienced users to misinterpret TIC readings during fire evaluations?

Temperature differentials of less than 1° Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Safety Rules for Aerial Devices

Maintain a minimum distance of 10 feet from overhead power lines when operating aerial devices to prevent electric shock.
High voltages can arc significant distances; water on fireground increases conductivity, heightening risks.
Avoid extending or retracting any aerial ladder while a person is on it to prevent crush injuries from shifting rungs.

Importance of Overhaul

Efficient overhaul is crucial for preventing rekindling and ensuring all hidden fires are extinguished.
A hasty or inadequate overhaul can lead to public dissatisfaction and increased fire loss.
Historical example: In 2010, six firefighters suffered injuries due to a collapsed parapet wall after they inadequately overhauled a previous fire scene.

Understanding Overhaul

Definition: Any action taken to expose hidden fire and ensure complete extinguishment.
Damage may be necessary to locate hidden fire, but proper justification for openings is essential to occupy residents.

Phases of Overhaul

Precontrol: Conducted under challenging conditions while the fire is active; focuses on stopping fire spread.
Postcontrol: Detailed examination for remaining fire, prioritizing thoroughness over speed, with less pressure for immediate action.

Key Areas for Examination

Examine vertical voids (e.g., shaft columns) and horizontal voids (e.g., cocklofts) for potential fire spread.
Older building constructions often have concealed voids allowing fire movement; knowledge of building types is essential in identifying risks.

Thermal Imaging Cameras (TICs)

TICs represent a significant advancement in firefighting, providing visual images of heat sources.
Increasingly affordable, TICs improve efficiency in locating hidden fires and have proven life-saving in various scenarios.

Senses Utilized During Overhaul

Sight: Visual indicators of fire (e.g., smoke, blistering paint) guide firefighters on where to investigate further.
Hearing: Sounds of combustion (snap, crackle, pop) can direct attention to areas needing examination.

Careful Assessment Required

Firefighters should be cautious when using touch during overhaul; injury can occur from high-temperature surfaces.
Observe the “15-second, 2-minute rule” for temperature assessment on suspected surfaces before making openings.

Additional Precautions

Smell is less utilized but can detect the difference between smoke and steam; SCBA should be worn to preserve this sense and protect lungs.
Ongoing ventilation of the building is crucial to ensure a safe environment for firefighting personnel during overhaul operations.

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Description

This quiz covers essential safety rules for operating aerial devices and the importance of effective overhaul procedures in firefighting. Understanding the risks of electric shock and the significance of thorough overhaul can enhance firefighter safety and performance. Test your knowledge on these critical topics!