TN 101.1.4- Stairwells

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of identifying the type and number of stairwells in a high-rise building?

To identify the location of the fire

To determine the best exit route for civilians

To determine the number of firefighters needed for the operation

To implement an Incident Action Plan (IAP) effectively (correct)

What is the characteristic design of Return Stairwells?

The stairwell has a straight design

The stairwell entry and exit points are directly above or below each other (correct)

The stairwell entry and exit points are on opposite sides of the building

The stairwell has a spiral design

What is the typical location of the landing in a Return Stairwell?

At the bottom of the stairwell

At the middle of the U-shape

At the top of the stairwell

Half way between the floors (correct)

Why is it essential to designate stairwells early in the incident?

To facilitate the implementation of the Incident Action Plan (IAP) Signup and view all the answers

What is the preferred apparatus for designating stairwells?

The first in apparatus Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of stairwells in firefighting operations?

Evacuation, fire attack, ventilation and access Signup and view all the answers

What is a distinct feature of scissor stairs?

They contain two separate stairwells in one vertical shaft Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of access stairs?

To provide access between floors of individual occupancies Signup and view all the answers

What is a key consideration when designating a stairwell for attack?

The location of the fire in relation to the stairs Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of maintaining at least one stairwell free of smoke and heat?

To allow occupants to evacuate the building Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes an attack stairwell from other types of stairwells?

It is designated for firefighting operations Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of tactical use of stairs?

Using stairs for both attack and evacuation Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of pressurizing stairwells in high-rise buildings during a fire?

To keep the stairwells clear of smoke and heat Signup and view all the answers

Why is it recommended to take a few seconds to adjust PPE when ascending above ten floors?

To avoid unnecessary stress on the body Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended procedure for removing gear when ascending stairs?

Remove bunker jacket, hood, and clip helmet to SCBA harness Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of assigning a firefighter every two floors in the stairwell?

To shuttle equipment between floors Signup and view all the answers

What happens if no one is available to receive equipment on a higher floor during a shuttle operation?

The equipment is left on the stairwell landing Signup and view all the answers

What do firefighters do after handing off equipment during a shuttle operation?

They descend back to their starting level to pick up more equipment Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Stairwells in High-Rise Buildings

Stairwells are a vital part of firefighting operations, serving as a primary means of evacuation, fire attack, ventilation, and access.
Identifying the type and number of stairs within a high-rise building is crucial for implementing an Incident Action Plan (IAP).

Types of Stairwells

Return Stairwells: the most common type in high-rise buildings, designed in a U-shape with stairwell entry and exit points directly above or below each other.
Scissor Stairwells: consist of two separate stairwells contained in one vertical shaft, separated by a fire-rated wall, and exit on the opposite side of the building at each landing.
Access Stairwells (also known as Tenant Stairs or Convenience Stairs): provide access between floors of individual occupancies.

Tactical Use of Stairs

Designating stairwells for attack and evacuation at the onset of an operation is crucial for firefighter safety and civilian occupant survivability.
Attack Stairwell: selected based on the location of the fire, standpipe, and stairwells being used by occupants for evacuation.
Evacuation Stairwell: at least one stairwell must be maintained free of smoke and heat for occupant evacuation.

Stairwell Pressurization

Some modern high-rise buildings are equipped with a feature that pressurizes the stairwells in the event of a fire or upon activation of the fire alarm system.
This feature is designed to keep the stairwells clear of smoke and heat when doors at the fire floor are opened.

Ascending Stairs

Ascending an excessive number of floors can cause unnecessary stress on the body.
When ascending above ten floors in a non-IDLH atmosphere, crews should take a few seconds to adjust their PPE
- Open or remove bunker jacket
- Remove gloves and hood
- Clip helmet to SCBA harness
- Raise bunker pant cuffs above boots
- Carry tools above the waist

Equipment Shuttle in the Stairwell

If elevators fail, a firefighter should be placed every two floors to assist in shuttling equipment.
Firefighters are assigned to retrieve equipment from apparatus and gather equipment near the stairwell entrance for the start of the shuttle.
After 'handing off' equipment, the firefighter must descend back to their starting level. If no one is at the higher level to take the hand-off, the equipment shall be left on the stairwell landing.

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Description

This quiz covers the Fire Services Training Division's guidelines for high rise buildings stairwells, including types of stairwells and their uses. It's essential for firefighters and emergency responders to understand the unique challenges of stairwells in high rise buildings. Test your knowledge and skills in this area.