Ch 3 pg 54-59 handbook of tactics

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Questions and Answers

What is a critical factor that can lead to the extension of fire beyond the structure of origin?

Availability of water sources nearby

Number of firefighters available for the intervention

Proper equipment maintenance by firefighters

IC's failure to conduct a continuous size up of fire problems (correct)

Which statement reflects the principle that if firefighters have not controlled a fire within a specified time, they should expect further complications?

Containment is typically achievable within the first 10 minutes.

If a fire isn't contained in 30 minutes, it becomes unmanageable.

If not controlled in 20 minutes, anticipate greater challenges. (correct)

Fire under control within 15 minutes is safe to assume.

What action should be taken when an effective offensive attack is no longer feasible after 20 minutes?

Initiate evacuation plans for personnel on site

Prepare defensive positions to protect exposures (correct)

Request additional resources while maintaining attack efforts

Continue the offensive until external assistance arrives

Which mistake often contributes to a building's destruction despite firefighters’ efforts?

Failure to anticipate structural vulnerabilities from the beginning Signup and view all the answers

How does the presence of stored explosives impact fire attack strategies?

They necessitate an immediate transition to defensive tactics. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for the engine company to suppress the fire as soon as possible?

It simplifies search and rescue operations. Signup and view all the answers

What should be prioritized when positioning the first hoseline?

Place it between the fire and the occupants. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if an attack is stalled due to heat or flame?

Increase the flow of water or ventilation. Signup and view all the answers

Which factors influence the time it takes to position a hoseline?

The number of personnel and the structure's layout. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the hoseline's advance?

Heat and flame are the main obstacles to advancement. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major downfall of many engine company operations?

Overcomplicating the attack with too many simultaneous tasks. Signup and view all the answers

In which scenarios might the hoseline not advance?

Due to extreme heat or flame conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if heat, rather than visible flames, is hindering the advance of the hoseline?

Perform additional ventilation opposite the hoseline. Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario is increasing the discharge pressure of the hoseline most effective?

With automatic fog nozzles. Signup and view all the answers

What is advised when using a second hoseline to support the first?

Match the size of the second line to the original hoseline or bigger!!! Signup and view all the answers

What might indicate that an adjustment in tactics is required during firefighting operations?

high winds fanning the fire or accelerants present. Signup and view all the answers

What does the officer in command ultimately determine during a tactical change?

Alternative courses of action and orders to follow. Signup and view all the answers

What is the objective of creating a 'flow path' during ventilation?

To remove products of combustion away from the nozzle team. Signup and view all the answers

What should be the primary consideration if facing an unusually strong fire during an advance?

Check if the hoseline crew is physically capable of advancing. Signup and view all the answers

If all methods to allow hoseline advancement fail, what should be the next step?

Attempt a new approach or tactical change. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical rule regarding the use of water streams in occupied buildings?

Avoid using an outside stream to prevent fire from being pushed back inside. Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition should firefighters prioritize their own safety over rescue efforts?

When the answer to their ability to rescue becomes 'no'. Signup and view all the answers

Which firefighting strategy can create a dangerous condition for trapped occupants during an offensive attack?

Implementing fog streams from outside the structure. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by an 'offensive method' in firefighting when human lives are at stake?

Taking aggressive actions to rescue victims still trapped inside. Signup and view all the answers

What additional factor does Chief Gallagher suggest influences firefighting operations during rescues?

The urgency of putting out the fire. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential negative effect of using a straight or solid stream in firefighting?

It can push gases inside if used improperly. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to consider the presence of trapped occupants during firefighting?

It shapes the strategy toward offensive firefighting. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary motivation for the FDNY's response during the World Trade Center tragedy?

Rescuing as many casualties as possible. Signup and view all the answers

What advantage does fire traveling in void spaces have over suppression forces?

It can break out in remote areas concurrently. Signup and view all the answers

In a defensive mode, what should be done regarding additional resources?

Request resources that can handle the worst-case scenario. Signup and view all the answers

How does a master stream from an elevated platform assist in defensive operations?

A 75-ft platform has a limited reach that covers about 100 ft in length and up to three stories high. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical factor when choosing between ground-mounted versus aerial master streams?

Aerial platforms have better reach but less flexibility. Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters do if there is a suspicion that a hoseline will be needed?

Lay it out at that location to prepare for potential water needs. Signup and view all the answers

Which approach is necessary for extinguishing fire in cases where it is inaccessible?

Employing cellar pipes or high-expansion foam Signup and view all the answers

How can unorthodox water application impact firefighting effectiveness?

It can allow the advance of pinned hoselines by darkening the fire. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical consideration for the officer in command during firefighting operations?

Flexibility in decision-making during operations Signup and view all the answers

What can be done if hoselines are pinned in a hallway by flames?

Bring a line into an adjacent apartment and operate through a wall Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters not become captivated by during firefighting operations?

The location of the visible fire only Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

FDNY Response to Emergencies

FDNY committed numerous firefighters to the World Trade Center Towers to rescue thousands of trapped individuals, despite the risk of collapse.
Many survivors were saved from elevators and blocked paths due to aggressive firefighting tactics.
Offensive firefighting is mandated when there is a possibility of rescuing trapped occupants.
Aggressive measures require caution to avoid worsening smoke and fire conditions within a building.

Firefighting Techniques and Strategies

Traditional guideline: Avoid using exterior streams in occupied buildings to prevent pushing fire and gases inside.
Solid stream methods can safely control fire while minimizing gas movement, allowing progress toward trapped civilians.
Early suppression is crucial; starting extinguishment promptly accelerates recovery operations such as search and rescue.

Hoseline Management

Prioritize getting the first hoseline operational between the fire and occupants promptly; avoid simultaneous multitasking which reduces efficiency.
In cases where advancement halts, increase ventilation, flow, or change attack tactics; don’t remain stationary as it allows fire to spread.
Use a second hoseline to support and relieve the first, ensuring it matches or exceeds the size of the original line to effectively combat the fire.

Decision-Making in Fire Operations

Commanding officers must continuously assess conditions on-site; a dynamic evaluation determines strategy adjustments needed.
If an effective offensive attack fails within 20 minutes, shift to defensive tactics; prioritize containing the fire and safeguarding personnel.
Recognize that certain structures may be beyond saving due to pre-existing conditions or overwhelming fire spread after arrival.

Defensive Operations

Transitioning to defensive mode requires preparation for potential total structural involvement; out-of-control fire can escape to remote areas.
Call for additional resources immediately upon realizing a defensive position is necessary to counteract possible conflagration.
Elevated master streams offer significant effectiveness in defensive situations, covering more area and maintaining reach against radiant heat.

Key Takeaways

Aggressive firefighting efforts must focus on saving lives when occupants are trapped, utilizing effective techniques that preserve conditions for rescue.
Continuous size-up and tactical flexibility are critical for effective fireground operations, responding dynamically to evolving fire conditions.
Efficient line management and rapid response are crucial in maintaining the upper hand over the fire and protecting both civilians and firefighters.

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Description

This quiz explores the critical rescue efforts undertaken by the FDNY during the tragic events at the World Trade Center. It emphasizes the importance of offensive interior attacks in saving lives when human life is at stake. Test your knowledge on firefighting principles and decision-making in life-threatening situations.