Podcast
Questions and Answers
Why are open staircases in multistory homes considered a fire hazard?
Why are open staircases in multistory homes considered a fire hazard?
- They are not up to current building code restrictions.
- They act as a chimney, channeling fire and gases upwards. (correct)
- They are difficult for firefighters to navigate.
- They are typically made of combustible materials.
In a two-story house fire, where should the first hoseline ideally be positioned to protect potential occupants?
In a two-story house fire, where should the first hoseline ideally be positioned to protect potential occupants?
- In the basement, to extinguish the fire at its source.
- At the main entrance, to direct water into the staircase. (correct)
- On the second floor, near the bedrooms.
- At the back of the house to cut off fire spread to neighboring properties.
What is the recommended minimum water supply (in gallons per minute) that should be planned for when establishing a water supply for attack lines at a residential fire?
What is the recommended minimum water supply (in gallons per minute) that should be planned for when establishing a water supply for attack lines at a residential fire?
- 200-300 gpm
- 1000-1200 gpm
- 400-600 gpm (correct)
- 700-900 gpm
Why is it advantageous to position the first engine just past the fire building when using an in-line supply?
Why is it advantageous to position the first engine just past the fire building when using an in-line supply?
In the context of fire spread in private dwellings, what is a significant hazard associated with asphalt siding?
In the context of fire spread in private dwellings, what is a significant hazard associated with asphalt siding?
Under what circumstance should the first hoseline be used to extinguish exterior fire spread before interior attack?
Under what circumstance should the first hoseline be used to extinguish exterior fire spread before interior attack?
What is the primary role of the hydrant person upon arrival at a fire scene?
What is the primary role of the hydrant person upon arrival at a fire scene?
Why is it important to coordinate roof ventilation with hoseline operations?
Why is it important to coordinate roof ventilation with hoseline operations?
What makes older roofs with 1x2-inch furring strips particularly hazardous for firefighters?
What makes older roofs with 1x2-inch furring strips particularly hazardous for firefighters?
When venting a peaked roof, on which side of the peak should the hole ideally be made in relation to the wind direction?
When venting a peaked roof, on which side of the peak should the hole ideally be made in relation to the wind direction?
What immediate risk do photovoltaic (PV) solar panels pose to firefighters operating on a roof during a fire?
What immediate risk do photovoltaic (PV) solar panels pose to firefighters operating on a roof during a fire?
Which type of roof cut is particularly effective on plywood sheathing, allowing for quicker ventilation?
Which type of roof cut is particularly effective on plywood sheathing, allowing for quicker ventilation?
What is the primary reason for the high number of civilian fire deaths in private dwellings each year?
What is the primary reason for the high number of civilian fire deaths in private dwellings each year?
What is the initial priority for firefighting activities in a private dwelling?
What is the initial priority for firefighting activities in a private dwelling?
How do modern homes with open floor plans affect firefighting tactics compared to older homes with smaller rooms?
How do modern homes with open floor plans affect firefighting tactics compared to older homes with smaller rooms?
What action should the first arriving fire officer take when faced with a private dwelling fire in a very large home (e.g., with a movie theater or bowling alley)?
What action should the first arriving fire officer take when faced with a private dwelling fire in a very large home (e.g., with a movie theater or bowling alley)?
In what situation is roof ventilation in a private dwelling most likely to be justified, even if the fire is on a lower floor?
In what situation is roof ventilation in a private dwelling most likely to be justified, even if the fire is on a lower floor?
What is the recommended action if there is any doubt about the first hoseline's ability to rapidly knock down the main body of fire?
What is the recommended action if there is any doubt about the first hoseline's ability to rapidly knock down the main body of fire?
What is the best method of rapidly supplying the water needed when fighting fires in private dwellings?
What is the best method of rapidly supplying the water needed when fighting fires in private dwellings?
What should the chauffeur of the engine do after supplying tank water to a preconnected hoseline?
What should the chauffeur of the engine do after supplying tank water to a preconnected hoseline?
Why is a fire in the cellar or basement of a balloon-frame house particularly dangerous?
Why is a fire in the cellar or basement of a balloon-frame house particularly dangerous?
When attacking a fire involving asphalt siding, what specific action should be taken to control the fire's spread?
When attacking a fire involving asphalt siding, what specific action should be taken to control the fire's spread?
What strategy can be implemented if personnel is inadequate to position three lines rapidly and to provide the necessary ventilation?
What strategy can be implemented if personnel is inadequate to position three lines rapidly and to provide the necessary ventilation?
What is the most critical task for the first unit to arrive at a house fire?
What is the most critical task for the first unit to arrive at a house fire?
After the hydrant firefighter charges the supply line, what is their next immediate task?
After the hydrant firefighter charges the supply line, what is their next immediate task?
What is the benefit of proper roof ventilation in limiting overall fire damage?
What is the benefit of proper roof ventilation in limiting overall fire damage?
Why is unnecessary roof ventilation discouraged?
Why is unnecessary roof ventilation discouraged?
What is typically sufficient if the fire hasn't extended into the area directly under the roof?
What is typically sufficient if the fire hasn't extended into the area directly under the roof?
What is a critical consideration when operating on peaked roofs during fire conditions?
What is a critical consideration when operating on peaked roofs during fire conditions?
What action should firefighters take when encountering a roof constructed with 1x2-inch furring strips?
What action should firefighters take when encountering a roof constructed with 1x2-inch furring strips?
When venting tile roofs, what is the recommended method for removing the covering before attacking the sheathing?
When venting tile roofs, what is the recommended method for removing the covering before attacking the sheathing?
Regardless of the type of roof covering, what should always be the first concern for firefighters operating on a roof?
Regardless of the type of roof covering, what should always be the first concern for firefighters operating on a roof?
On a high-pitch roof, what tool is recommended for making cuts if a power saw cannot be safely operated from a platform basket?
On a high-pitch roof, what tool is recommended for making cuts if a power saw cannot be safely operated from a platform basket?
When pushing down a ceiling with a pike pole during roof ventilation, which end of the pole is more efficient and less likely to get snagged on wiring?
When pushing down a ceiling with a pike pole during roof ventilation, which end of the pole is more efficient and less likely to get snagged on wiring?
When cutting a peaked roof for ventilation, what is the significance of cutting adjacent to the joists?
When cutting a peaked roof for ventilation, what is the significance of cutting adjacent to the joists?
What factor is making skylights a more prevalent aid to venting efforts?
What factor is making skylights a more prevalent aid to venting efforts?
In the context of house fires, what situations typically demand immediate assistance?
In the context of house fires, what situations typically demand immediate assistance?
Why is it critical for the first hoseline to be positioned to protect bedroom exits in a two-story house fire?
Why is it critical for the first hoseline to be positioned to protect bedroom exits in a two-story house fire?
What is the primary reason older homes with smaller rooms are advantageous for firefighting?
What is the primary reason older homes with smaller rooms are advantageous for firefighting?
In a modern home with an open floor plan, why is it crucial to stretch a second hoseline to back up the first one?
In a modern home with an open floor plan, why is it crucial to stretch a second hoseline to back up the first one?
What action should the first-arriving fire officer take when encountering a private dwelling fire in a very large home with atypical features like a movie theater or bowling alley?
What action should the first-arriving fire officer take when encountering a private dwelling fire in a very large home with atypical features like a movie theater or bowling alley?
What is the most important consideration when positioning the first hoseline in a two-story house fire?
What is the most important consideration when positioning the first hoseline in a two-story house fire?
Why is it essential to plan for a third hoseline in advance, even though most house fires may not require it?
Why is it essential to plan for a third hoseline in advance, even though most house fires may not require it?
When establishing a water supply for attack lines in a private dwelling fire, what is the recommended minimum flow rate to plan for?
When establishing a water supply for attack lines in a private dwelling fire, what is the recommended minimum flow rate to plan for?
What is the fastest method of applying water to a fire in a private dwelling, especially when using preconnected hoselines?
What is the fastest method of applying water to a fire in a private dwelling, especially when using preconnected hoselines?
What is the primary advantage of positioning the first engine just past the fire building when using an in-line supply?
What is the primary advantage of positioning the first engine just past the fire building when using an in-line supply?
Why are cellar fires in balloon-frame houses particularly dangerous?
Why are cellar fires in balloon-frame houses particularly dangerous?
Which action should be taken when encountering fire spreading up the exterior of a building with asphalt siding?
Which action should be taken when encountering fire spreading up the exterior of a building with asphalt siding?
If the second hoseline will be delayed in reaching the fire, what action should the first hoseline take when dealing with fire spreading up combustible exterior siding?
If the second hoseline will be delayed in reaching the fire, what action should the first hoseline take when dealing with fire spreading up combustible exterior siding?
In densely crowded areas with homes sheathed in asphalt, what should be the initial action of the first hoseline?
In densely crowded areas with homes sheathed in asphalt, what should be the initial action of the first hoseline?
What should the hydrant firefighter do immediately after charging the supply line?
What should the hydrant firefighter do immediately after charging the supply line?
Besides securing a water supply and stretching an attack line, what additional action should the first unit to arrive at a house fire prioritize?
Besides securing a water supply and stretching an attack line, what additional action should the first unit to arrive at a house fire prioritize?
What is the primary reason proper roof ventilation can limit overall fire damage?
What is the primary reason proper roof ventilation can limit overall fire damage?
When is the roof ventilation most likely to be a necessity?
When is the roof ventilation most likely to be a necessity?
Why is it essential to coordinate roof ventilation with hoseline operations?
Why is it essential to coordinate roof ventilation with hoseline operations?
Which of the following poses a great risk to firefighters operating on peaked roofs during fire conditions?
Which of the following poses a great risk to firefighters operating on peaked roofs during fire conditions?
What should firefighters do when encountering a roof constructed with 1x2-inch furring strips?
What should firefighters do when encountering a roof constructed with 1x2-inch furring strips?
What technique is particularly effective for opening plywood sheathing during roof ventilation?
What technique is particularly effective for opening plywood sheathing during roof ventilation?
On roofs with higher pitches, what tool is recommended for making cuts if a power saw cannot be safely operated from a platform basket?
On roofs with higher pitches, what tool is recommended for making cuts if a power saw cannot be safely operated from a platform basket?
When the outline of a roof opening is being cut, how should a firefighter position themselves in relation to the cut?
When the outline of a roof opening is being cut, how should a firefighter position themselves in relation to the cut?
Which of the following factors is making skylights a more prevalent aid to venting efforts?
Which of the following factors is making skylights a more prevalent aid to venting efforts?
What conditions typically demand immediate assistance beyond a standard 6- to 10-member crew at a house fire?
What conditions typically demand immediate assistance beyond a standard 6- to 10-member crew at a house fire?
When cutting a peaked roof for ventilation, what is a key consideration regarding the joists?
When cutting a peaked roof for ventilation, what is a key consideration regarding the joists?
When operating near photovoltaic (PV) solar panels on a roof during a fire, what is the most critical safety precaution firefighters should take?
When operating near photovoltaic (PV) solar panels on a roof during a fire, what is the most critical safety precaution firefighters should take?
When pushing down a ceiling with a pike pole during roof ventilation, why is the blunt end more efficient and less likely to get snagged compared to the hook end?
When pushing down a ceiling with a pike pole during roof ventilation, why is the blunt end more efficient and less likely to get snagged compared to the hook end?
When venting a peaked roof, why is the direction of the wind a critical factor in determining which side of the peak to make the ventilation hole?
When venting a peaked roof, why is the direction of the wind a critical factor in determining which side of the peak to make the ventilation hole?
Why is it necessary for members performing roof ventilation to be in full protective clothing and SCBA, regardless of how they will perform the task?
Why is it necessary for members performing roof ventilation to be in full protective clothing and SCBA, regardless of how they will perform the task?
What is a common mistake that can overload a roof and hinder ventilation efforts?
What is a common mistake that can overload a roof and hinder ventilation efforts?
In multistory homes, which design flaw significantly contributes to the rapid spread of fire and gases, acting like a chimney?
In multistory homes, which design flaw significantly contributes to the rapid spread of fire and gases, acting like a chimney?
What characteristic of certain interior finishes in private dwellings contributes to extremely fast and hot fires?
What characteristic of certain interior finishes in private dwellings contributes to extremely fast and hot fires?
Which area of a private dwelling should be the prime target of VEIS (vent, enter, isolate, and search) attempts, especially during nighttime fires?
Which area of a private dwelling should be the prime target of VEIS (vent, enter, isolate, and search) attempts, especially during nighttime fires?
What contributes to the high number of structural fires in one- and two-family homes in the United States?
What contributes to the high number of structural fires in one- and two-family homes in the United States?
In private dwelling fires, where do the majority of fires typically begin?
In private dwelling fires, where do the majority of fires typically begin?
In a two-story private dwelling fire, why is it crucial to prioritize stretching the first hoseline to protect bedroom exits?
In a two-story private dwelling fire, why is it crucial to prioritize stretching the first hoseline to protect bedroom exits?
Why does the text emphasize that firefighters should plan for a third hoseline in advance, even though many house fires may not require it?
Why does the text emphasize that firefighters should plan for a third hoseline in advance, even though many house fires may not require it?
In the context of attacking fires in private dwellings, what is the advantage of positioning the first engine just past the fire building when using an in-line supply?
In the context of attacking fires in private dwellings, what is the advantage of positioning the first engine just past the fire building when using an in-line supply?
What action should the first-arriving fire officer take when encountering a private dwelling fire in a very large home (e.g., with a movie theater or bowling alley)?
What action should the first-arriving fire officer take when encountering a private dwelling fire in a very large home (e.g., with a movie theater or bowling alley)?
In the context of venting peaked roofs during firefighting operations, why is the direction of the wind a critical factor in determining on which side of the peak to make the ventilation hole?
In the context of venting peaked roofs during firefighting operations, why is the direction of the wind a critical factor in determining on which side of the peak to make the ventilation hole?
Flashcards
Origin of Most Home Fires
Origin of Most Home Fires
Most fires in private homes start on the first floor or in the basement due to the location of heating, electrical, and cooking equipment.
Open Stairways
Open Stairways
In multistory homes, these act like chimneys, funneling fire and gases upward.
Open Floor Plans
Open Floor Plans
Modern homes often have open layouts, combining the kitchen, living, and dining areas.
First Hoseline Goal
First Hoseline Goal
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Subsequent Hoselines
Subsequent Hoselines
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Water Supply Needs
Water Supply Needs
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Fastest Water Application
Fastest Water Application
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Engine Positioning
Engine Positioning
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Asphalt Siding Issues
Asphalt Siding Issues
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IC Hoseline Consideration
IC Hoseline Consideration
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First Hoseline Basic Task
First Hoseline Basic Task
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Search Urgency
Search Urgency
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Necessity of Roof Ventilation
Necessity of Roof Ventilation
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Coordinating Ventilation
Coordinating Ventilation
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Peaked Roof Dangers
Peaked Roof Dangers
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Older Roof Sheathing
Older Roof Sheathing
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Roof Shingles
Roof Shingles
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Venting a Hard Roof
Venting a Hard Roof
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Roof Ventilation Safety
Roof Ventilation Safety
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Axe
Axe
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Hole Placement
Hole Placement
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Wind Awarenes
Wind Awarenes
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PV Panel Hazard
PV Panel Hazard
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Quick Cut
Quick Cut
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Basic Rules for Cutting
Basic Rules for Cutting
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Study Notes
- Most structural fires in the US occur in one- and two-family homes.
- Over 425,000 homes burn annually.
- Private dwellings account for over 70% of civilian fire deaths each year.
- Most fires in private dwellings start on the first floor or in the cellar due to the location of heating plants, electric services, water heaters, and cooking equipment.
- The upper floors of homes usually contain sleeping areas which makes them the primary target for VEIS (vent, enter, isolate, and search) operations.
- Victims found inside are typically in bedrooms.
Firefighting Activities Scenario
- Secure the water supply.
- Position a charged hoseline to protect bedroom exits.
- Perform VEIS of all occupied areas.
- Extinguish the fire.
Design and Construction Issues
- The lack of enclosed stairways in multistory homes acts as a chimney, funneling fire and gases upwards.
- There are often no code requirements for interior finishes, leading to the use of flammable materials like thin wood paneling which spreads fire quickly.
Modern Home Design vs. Older Homes
- Older homes had smaller rooms, allowing fires to be contained and extinguished with a midsize handline (1½–2 in.).
- Homes built until the mid-1980s had an average floor space of about 800 sq ft per floor.
- Modern homes often feature open floor plans, combining the kitchen, dining area, and living room which creates larger fire areas and requires greater water flow.
- Some homes, especially in wealthier areas, can have floor plans as large as older commercial buildings, with areas exceeding 8,000 sq ft which calls for commercial fire tactics.
Hoseline Usage
- The first hoseline should direct water onto the main fire between the fire and potential occupant locations, focusing on the staircase in two-story or higher homes.
- A second line should back up the first, covering the same area or the floor above.
- A third line should cover the floor above the fire or address any exposure hazards.
- Plan for at least three lines in advance.
Water Supply
- A water supply should support at least three lines, providing a flow of about 400–600 gpm.
- An additional 250 gpm may be needed to protect closely spaced wooden exposures.
- Large-diameter hose should be used in-line to maximize water application speed.
- Preconnected lines should be used and initially charged with water from the unit’s booster tank while setting up the supply line.
Engine Positioning
- The first engine with an in-line supply should be positioned just past the fire building to leave space for an aerial device.
Combustible Siding
- Combustible exterior siding, especially asphalt sheathing also know as gasoline siding, can cause rapid fire spread.
- Tactics include darkening down the exterior fire and sweeping the eaves along with checking for fire extension into the attic.
- The first hoseline can be used as an exposure line to prevent fire spread to other structures.
Personnel Tasks
- One member should be assigned as a hydrant person to ensure a water supply.
- Two members should stretch an attack line to the fire's location and conduct the primary search.
- The chauffeur maintains the water supply and assists by operating a deck gun, venting windows, or placing a portable ladder.
- Search the upper floor or stretch a second hoseline if there are enough personnel.
- The hydrant firefighter then joins the chauffeur to form the initial rapid intervention team (RIT).
Roof Ventilation
- Roof ventilation limits fire damage by reducing lateral spread and facilitating hoseline advancement.
- Ventilation improves conditions for search, rescue, attack, salvage, and overhaul.
- Horizontal window ventilation is sufficient if the fire hasn’t reached the roof area.
Attic Fires
- Attic fires require roof ventilation due to a lack of windows and potential for steam burns when water is applied.
- Early recognition of attic fire is crucial for prompt intervention.
- Coordinate ventilation with water application.
Peaked Roof Hazards
- Peaked roofs can be dangerous due to their pitch and smaller joist sizes.
- Lightweight wood, gusset-plate trusses, and plywood I-beams are dangerous.
- Older homes may have 1×2-in. furring strips as roof sheathing which makes it easy for firefighters to fall through.
- Modern roofs use plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) sheathing, which is harder to cut.
Roof Coverings
- Common roofing materials include older wood shingles (easily cut but pose a fire risk), asphalt shingles (easily cut), and hard coverings like slate and tile (more difficult).
- Removing hard coverings before cutting is the best approach.
- Exercise caution to avoid injuries from falling debris, especially with slate and tile.
Making a Roof Cut
- Safety is the top priority.
- Personnel should wear full protective clothing and using SCBA.
- At least two experienced members should be assigned to roof ventilation.
- Power saws are preferred on low-pitch roofs but can be dangerous on high-pitch roofs.
- After the cut, use a pike pole to pull up roof boards and push down the ceiling.
- Bring a pick-head axe for prying and in case the power saw fails.
Cut Placement
- Look for signs of fire such as hot spots or fire showing out of an opening when determining where to cut.
- Cut as close to the peak as possible to vent hot gases.
- Cut on the downwind side of the peak.
Solar Panel Hazards
- Solar panels pose risks due to electrical currents that remain active even when the main power is shut off.
- Maintain distance from solar panels, and use extra caution inside structures with them.
Skylights and Satellite Dishes
- Skylights can simplify ventilation, but their location and direction relative to the wind must be considered.
- Satellite dishes add extra weight to the roof and may not have been installed with load considerations.
Quick Cut Method
- The quick cut is effective on plywood sheathing and involves hinging the roofing on a joist.
- A triangular opening can be cut from a platform basket, but it provides limited ventilation.
General Rules for Roof Cuts
- Ensure the stability of the area before entering.
- Always have two means of escape.
- Plan the cut and inform fellow members of its layout.
- Arrange the sequence of cuts to keep the wind at your back.
- Cut adjacent to the joists for maximum support.
- Never step on the cut.
- Don’t cut the roof supports.
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