Ch 3 pg 49-53 handbook of tactics

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Questions and Answers

What is a common situation that a indirect attack won’t work?

Large store

Small store

At the back of a strip mall

Store fire in a middle store of a strip mall (correct)

What is the recommended action if venting the roof is not an option at a taxpayer with large front windows?

Wait for the fire to burn out.

Apply a mist spray through small openings.

Break the plate glass window and let the fire explode. (correct)

Call for backup before proceeding.

When creating an opening in a window, how should the initial blow be executed?

With a hammer directly against the window.

Using a hook swung like a baseball bat. (correct)

By firing a firearm at the glass.

With a strong nozzle stream.

What type of hose stream is preferred for maximum reach when breaking windows?

Solid stream. Signup and view all the answers

Which area is most commonly associated with serious firefighter injuries due to backdrafts?

Top floors of apartment buildings with cocklofts. Signup and view all the answers

What misperception exists regarding backdrafts at fires?

The cannot occur in area that is free burning Signup and view all the answers

What is the first action to take when preparing to break a window in a fire situation?

Clear the area of personnel. Signup and view all the answers

What is the safe distance for positioning personnel when dealing with potential backdrafts?

Substantial distance outside the potential collapse zone and blast zone Signup and view all the answers

How long do you spray inside the opening after breaking the glass to prevent a backdraft?

30 seconds Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a hose stream fails to break the glass?

Attempt to break the glass manually. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical reason for choosing not to attack a fire at a warehouse containing hazardous materials?

To prevent runoff from poisons or pesticides Signup and view all the answers

In what circumstances might an officer decide to let a fire burn without intervention?

When extinguishing would increase risk to firefighters or spread toxins. Signup and view all the answers

Why might partially extinguished fires in certain areas be more hazardous?

They may become more toxic and enduring than uncontrolled fires. Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible consequence of the decision to let a hazardous materials fire burn?

Potential legal repercussions for the fire department. Signup and view all the answers

How should the officer in command communicate their decision to let a fire burn?

By providing a detailed justification to the building owner. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key advantage of using the indirect method of attack during firefighting operations?

It can extinguishes fires in areas inaccessible to direct attack. Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario makes the indirect method of attack inappropriate?

Fires where occupants are still inside the building. Signup and view all the answers

How does the indirect method of attack impact water usage compared to other methods?

It often uses less water than combination attacks. Signup and view all the answers

What could undermine the effectiveness of the steam during an indirect attack?

Having multiple ventilation openings in the building. Signup and view all the answers

What effect might occur if the fog stream is discharged below the critical volume?

It can push fire ahead of the steam Signup and view all the answers

Which factor reduces water damage when using the indirect method of attack?

Achieving efficient steam conversion during extinguishment. Signup and view all the answers

During which emergency situation might the indirect method be particularly advantageous?

A fire in the hold of a ship where entry is restricted. Signup and view all the answers

What can happen if the indirect attack is applied without careful consideration to building conditions?

It can create more water damage Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the key requirements for a successful indirect attack?

Open air flow Signup and view all the answers

In which situation is an offensive attack deemed suitable?

When the threat to exposures is minimal and there are plenty of resources available Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of a defensive operation?

To protect exposures from the fire Signup and view all the answers

What happens in fires involving materials like cotton mattresses?

They create tremendous amounts of smoke. Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters do before initiating an indirect attack?

Evaluate the level of heat present Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of modern buildings complicates firefighting efforts?

Sealed buildings that limit air flow Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical condition for the indirect attack method to be effective?

Limited size of the potential fire area Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a factor dictating the type of attack to use?

The time of day Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary method for effectively protecting exposed surfaces from radiant heat in a fire situation?

Coating the surface with water or foam Signup and view all the answers

Why is it advised against using high-velocity straight streams at close range during firefighting?

They can break windows and aid the fire spread. Signup and view all the answers

What are the two primary means responsible for the spread of fire to exposures?

Radiant heat and direct-flame exposure Signup and view all the answers

What role does water play when directly applied to exposed surfaces during a fire?

It absorbs heat by conduction effectively. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Requirements for Successful Indirect Attack

Successful indirect attack requires the following conditions:
- No occupants present
- Limited ventilation
- High heat presence
- Limited size of the fire area

Challenges of Indirect Attack

Indirect attacks may not be practical in most structure fires due to life hazard risks.
Conditions unsuitable for fire existence also jeopardize human survival.

Backdraft Risks

Super backdraft incidents can lead to severe collapses and casualties.
Proper timing of water application after roof ventilation reduces backdraft risks.

Common Fire Scenarios

Strip mall fires (often termed "taxpayers") present unique challenges due to metal roofs limiting roof cutting.

Strategies to Prevent Backdrafts

Deploy a charged 2½-inch line away from danger zones.
Clear personnel from the front of the building and position them behind barriers.
Utilize hose streams strategically to break windows if needed.

Manual Window Breaking Procedure

If hose streams are ineffective, manually breaking windows may be necessary.
Coordinate the window breaking with hose stream application to reduce backdraft risks.

Backdraft Considerations

A backdraft can occur in adjacent areas even if the fire is free-burning.
It is essential to recognize the signs of potential backdrafts to ensure firefighter safety.

Advantages of Indirect Method of Attack

Can reduce exposure to backdrafts for firefighters.
Effective in remote areas where direct access poses risks.
Typically requires less water than direct methods, minimizing water damage.

Disadvantages of Indirect Method of Attack

Not suitable for occupied buildings, as conditions become untenable.
Ventilation openings dilute steam effectiveness during application.
Incorrect use can lead to increased water damage and ineffective fire control.

Selecting the Proper Operating Mode

Choices when fighting fires include offensive, defensive, or no attack strategies:
- Offensive: Assumes adequate resources for interior attack.
- Defensive: Protects exposures while assessing fire control.
- No Attack: Necessary in situations with extreme hazards, like BLEVE risks.

Exposure Protection Techniques

Avoid using high-velocity straight streams at close range to prevent window breakage.
Water or foam should coat exposed surfaces to absorb heat effectively.
Explain decisions clearly to building owners, especially under hazardous conditions.

Firefighting Considerations

Recognize the risk of backdrafts, especially in top floors of buildings.
Evaluate building conditions, firefighter safety, and potential toxic materials before engaging in attacks.

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Description

Explore the critical requirements for Engine Company Operations in firefighting. Understand key factors such as ventilation limitations, heat management, and the challenges posed by self-venting fires. Test your knowledge with this comprehensive quiz on Chapter 03.