Ch 11 pg 285-289

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of hazard awareness training for firefighters?

Prioritizing the use of new firefighting technologies

Maximizing firefighting speed regardless of conditions

Focusing solely on extinguishing the fire

Recognizing risks and taking protective actions (correct)

Why is determining the occupancy type important for firefighters?

It allows for coordination with neighboring fire departments

It dictates the length of the firefighting operation

It influences the choice of extinguishing agents

It helps assess specific risks associated with the structure (correct)

What is included in the six-question firefighter survival survey?

Info gathering thought process (correct)

Questions aimed at assessing operational efficiency only

Questions about personal interests and preferences

Questions regarding equipment maintenance schedules

Which type of structure is most prone to severe hazards during firefighting operations due to its roofing system?

Exterminator's shops Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for conducting a secondary search only after fire control is established?

Fire conditions may worsen, endangering firefighters. Signup and view all the answers

What contributes significantly to the risks firefighters face when dealing with fires in cellars and attics?

Limited access, escape, and ventilation Signup and view all the answers

In which type of dwelling do the majority of fire-related civilian deaths occur?

Two-family dwellings Signup and view all the answers

What was the decrease in firefighter deaths from the 1970s high of 140 per year to the 1990s then 2017

100, 60 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT listed as a reason for firefighter deaths?

Technological malfunctions Signup and view all the answers

Between 2000 and 2017, how many firefighters died as a result of asphyxiation and/or smoke inhalation?

99 Signup and view all the answers

Which initiative is NOT proposed for reducing firefighter deaths?

Enhance firefighter training programs Signup and view all the answers

What is the immediate problem mentioned in relation to firefighter safety?

How to keep the current generation of firefighters alive Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following deaths accounted for the largest number among the specified causes from 2000 to 2017?

Caught or trapped Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the consequences of modern building construction techniques that impacts firefighter safety?

Increasing flammable fuels in buildings Signup and view all the answers

As of 2017, how many deaths occurred specifically at structure fires according to the data provided?

17 Signup and view all the answers

What should a firefighter prioritize when trying to exit a burning building?

Survey potential escape routes and conditions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of Norman's Three Rules of Survival?

Always remain in direct contact with your partner Signup and view all the answers

What evaluation must be part of the survival survey when assessing a burning building?

Conditions that indicate potential backdraft Signup and view all the answers

When is the safest time to look for escape routes and potential obstacles?

During the pre-entry size-up Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should NOT be included in SCBA training for emergency conditions?

Properly sealing a gas mask Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the emergency escape maneuver?

To disentangle from electric or cable TV wires Signup and view all the answers

Which advanced skill is optional in SCBA training?

Changing cylinders in a smoke-filled atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about entanglement while using an SCBA is true?

Conducting an emergency escape maneuver for entanglement is necessary, but such situations aren’t all that common Signup and view all the answers

What is the first action recommended if you are cut off by extending fire?

Find an area of refuge and close doors between you and the fire. Signup and view all the answers

Which method is suggested for calling for help during a fire emergency?

Use radio communication, PASS alarm, or voice. Signup and view all the answers

What should you look for after finding a temporary area of refuge?

Windows or doors that lead to a safer location. Signup and view all the answers

What makes climbing out onto a ladder particularly challenging during a fire?

The fire rolling over your head. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to close doors between you and the fire?

It can minimize the flow of heat and flames. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the reduced-profile maneuver?

To escape from narrow spaces Signup and view all the answers

When is it necessary to remove the SCBA from your back?

When breaching a wall for escape Signup and view all the answers

What should be done prior to initiating the emergency escape maneuver?

Transmit a Mayday message Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential step when performing the emergency escape maneuver?

Maintain a tight grip on one shoulder strap Signup and view all the answers

Which kind of obstacles might necessitate the emergency escape maneuver?

Hanging wires and bedsprings Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial action to take when performing an emergency bailout through a window?

Hang onto the ledge with one arm and one leg exposed. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the SCBA during both escape maneuvers?

To allow breathing while navigating obstacles Signup and view all the answers

How should a firefighter position their body when performing the emergency escape maneuver?

Facing the SCBA once released Signup and view all the answers

During an emergency exit, what position should your legs be in as you clear the windowsill?

Towards the ground for a controlled rotation. Signup and view all the answers

When should the tip of the ladder be positioned for routine entry?

Just at or under the sill. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if help does not arrive while performing a bailout?

Unhook your leg first and hang feet-down. Signup and view all the answers

In what situations is changing air cylinders particularly useful for firefighters?

Holds of ships, tunnels, sub cellars, some high rises, and windowless buildings Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters prioritize before considering changing cylinders in emergency situations?

Using hose-supplied air sources or longer-duration cylinders. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first action to take when preparing to change to a fresh air cylinder?

Set the SCBA down cylinder up in front of you. Signup and view all the answers

What risks do firefighters face when escaping from certain locations during a fire?

Running out of air in dangerous atmospheres. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes an appropriate scenario for changing air cylinders?

In prolonged emergencies where other options are not feasible. Signup and view all the answers

What impact do high ceilings have in commercial buildings regarding fire incidents?

They may hinder firefighters from identifying flashover risks. Signup and view all the answers

In which situation is it critical to consider the fire's effect on structural stability?

When the fire is spreading in concealed spaces. Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters assess when confronted with a fire spreading around them?

If the fire threatens their escape route. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to recognize the signs of potential flashover during a fire?

To avoid being trapped by the fire's rapid expansion. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical question firefighters must ask when facing a fire?

What effect does the fire have on structural integrity? Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Firefighter Deaths Overview

Firefighter fatalities have decreased from 140 annually in the 1970s to around 60 in 2017.
A total of 68 firefighter deaths were recorded in 2017, with only 17 occurring at structure fires.
From 2000 to 2017, 249 firefighters died in structure fires, excluding the 343 deaths on September 11, 2001.
Major causes of death during this period included:
- 186 due to injuries or exposure
- 99 from asphyxiation/smoke inhalation
- 48 from burns
- 49 from crushing/internal injuries
- 53 from heart attacks or strokes

Reasons for Firefighter Deaths

Factors contributing to firefighter mortality include:
- Reduced staffing levels
- Increased flammable fuels in modern buildings
- Modern construction techniques that trap heat and smoke
- Firefighters' overconfidence in protective gear

Strategies to Reduce Firefighter Deaths

Immediate actions to reduce injury and fatalities:
- Enhance hazard awareness and recognition
- Improve emergency escape/self-rescue capabilities
- Deploy rapid intervention teams (RITs) for rescue operations

Hazard Awareness Training

Firefighters need training to identify hazards quickly and adopt protective measures effectively.
The firefighter survival survey helps focus attention on critical safety considerations upon arrival.

Occupancy Considerations

Different occupancies present unique risks; firefighters must adapt their strategies accordingly.
- Bowstring-truss roofs: May collapse quickly; defensive positioning is necessary.
- Hazardous chemicals: Common in certain businesses, warranting special caution.
- Two-family dwellings: Highest incidence of fire-related deaths occurs here.

Fire Location Hazards

Cellars, attics, and windowless areas complicate access, ventilation, and escape.
Unfinished structures pose additional challenges during firefighting operations.

Entry and Exit Strategies

Getting In: Examine the building for the safest entry; use ladders to access windows above the fire floor.
Getting Out: Prioritize exit over entry; maintain contact with a partner or established lines.
Norman’s Three Rules of Survival:
- Don’t depend on others for rescue.
- Always know your primary and secondary escape routes.

Evaluating Building Conditions

Conduct ongoing assessments of internal conditions for potential backdrafts and heat decreases.
Assess ceiling heights in commercial buildings for risks of flashover and structural integrity.

Escape Training

Must include SCBA usage training under emergency conditions, incorporating maneuvers like:
- Reduced-profile and emergency escape maneuvers for navigating tight spaces.
- Training for entanglement situations and blindfolded SCBA removal.

Emergency Protocols

Transmit a Mayday message before attempting emergency escape maneuvers.
In entanglement emergencies, find a safe space, call for help, and seek alternate escape routes.

Emergency Exit Techniques

Headfirst Exit: A method of descending from windows while remaining low and avoiding heat.
Emergency Ladder Climb: Adapting climbing techniques to emergency situations where conventional methods fail.

Emergency Bailout Strategy

In the absence of immediate assistance, secure your position before attempting to exit.
Focus on safe descent techniques when evacuating from elevated positions to guarantee safety.

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Description

Explore the advancements in firefighter safety over the past two decades. This quiz examines the decline in firefighter deaths and the factors contributing to this positive trend. Test your knowledge on the various developments that have helped protect firefighters in dangerous situations.