Fire officer handbook of tactics chapter 14.

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Questions and Answers

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 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?

  • 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?

<p>To leave the front of the structure clear for an aerial device. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of fire spread in private dwellings, what is a significant hazard associated with asphalt siding?

<p>It burns rapidly, generating tremendous radiant heat and black smoke. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstance should the first hoseline be used to extinguish exterior fire spread before interior attack?

<p>When the second hoseline will be delayed. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the hydrant person upon arrival at a fire scene?

<p>To ensure a vital water supply by dropping and connecting a supply line to the hydrant. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to coordinate roof ventilation with hoseline operations?

<p>To ensure that the hoseline is in place to control the fire after ventilation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What makes older roofs with 1x2-inch furring strips particularly hazardous for firefighters?

<p>They are prone to collapse due to the wide spacing between supports. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When venting a peaked roof, on which side of the peak should the hole ideally be made in relation to the wind direction?

<p>The downwind side, to allow the gases to escape. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What immediate risk do photovoltaic (PV) solar panels pose to firefighters operating on a roof during a fire?

<p>Electrocution due to live current that cannot be switched off. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of roof cut is particularly effective on plywood sheathing, allowing for quicker ventilation?

<p>The quick cut, hinging on a joist. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for the high number of civilian fire deaths in private dwellings each year?

<p>The way homes are built and the devices used within them. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial priority for firefighting activities in a private dwelling?

<p>Protecting bedroom exits to ensure occupant safety. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do modern homes with open floor plans affect firefighting tactics compared to older homes with smaller rooms?

<p>They require additional fire flow due to the larger fire area. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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)?

<p>Evaluate the age and size of the structure before selecting tactics. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what situation is roof ventilation in a private dwelling most likely to be justified, even if the fire is on a lower floor?

<p>When the fire extends to combustible exterior siding and up to the eaves. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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?

<p>The second line must work with the first line. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the best method of rapidly supplying the water needed when fighting fires in private dwellings?

<p>Using an in-line stretch of large-diameter hose from the hydrant into the fire. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should the chauffeur of the engine do after supplying tank water to a preconnected hoseline?

<p>Break the supply line and connect it to the intake of the truck. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is a fire in the cellar or basement of a balloon-frame house particularly dangerous?

<p>The open wall cavities allow for rapid vertical fire spread. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When attacking a fire involving asphalt siding, what specific action should be taken to control the fire's spread?

<p>Darken down the fire on the outside of the structure and sweep the eaves. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What strategy can be implemented if personnel is inadequate to position three lines rapidly and to provide the necessary ventilation?

<p>Implement a fast exterior hit to buy time to get to the attic. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most critical task for the first unit to arrive at a house fire?

<p>Searching for and removing all occupants. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After the hydrant firefighter charges the supply line, what is their next immediate task?

<p>Immediately return to the apparatus and form the initial rapid intervention team (RIT). (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of proper roof ventilation in limiting overall fire damage?

<p>It reduces the lateral spread of the fire. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is unnecessary roof ventilation discouraged?

<p>It may delay vitally important operations in other areas. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is typically sufficient if the fire hasn't extended into the area directly under the roof?

<p>Horizontal window ventilation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical consideration when operating on peaked roofs during fire conditions?

<p>The live load capacity of the roof. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action should firefighters take when encountering a roof constructed with 1x2-inch furring strips?

<p>Use extreme caution due to the risk of stepping through the roof. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When venting tile roofs, what is the recommended method for removing the covering before attacking the sheathing?

<p>Prying them off with a pointed tool. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Regardless of the type of roof covering, what should always be the first concern for firefighters operating on a roof?

<p>Safety of the members. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

On a high-pitch roof, what tool is recommended for making cuts if a power saw cannot be safely operated from a platform basket?

<p>An axe. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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?

<p>The blunt end. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When cutting a peaked roof for ventilation, what is the significance of cutting adjacent to the joists?

<p>It ensures maximum support and the least bounce. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor is making skylights a more prevalent aid to venting efforts?

<p>Architectural designs evolving. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of house fires, what situations typically demand immediate assistance?

<p>Fires that extend or originate in such problem areas as cellars and attics. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it critical for the first hoseline to be positioned to protect bedroom exits in a two-story house fire?

<p>To ensure safe evacuation routes for occupants, as bedrooms are primary sleeping areas. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason older homes with smaller rooms are advantageous for firefighting?

<p>Fire is more easily contained and extinguished with a smaller hoseline. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a modern home with an open floor plan, why is it crucial to stretch a second hoseline to back up the first one?

<p>To compensate for the increased fire spread potential due to the large, undivided spaces. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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?

<p>Recognize the need for a commercial fire response and tactics, such as using a 2½-in. hose for fire attack. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most important consideration when positioning the first hoseline in a two-story house fire?

<p>To get water flowing between the fire and the likely locations of any occupants, such as the bedrooms. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to plan for a third hoseline in advance, even though most house fires may not require it?

<p>To be prepared for unexpected fire spread or intensity, such as in cellar fires in balloon-framed structures. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When establishing a water supply for attack lines in a private dwelling fire, what is the recommended minimum flow rate to plan for?

<p>400-600 gpm to supply three lines, with an additional 250 gpm for each closely spaced wooden exposure. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the fastest method of applying water to a fire in a private dwelling, especially when using preconnected hoselines?

<p>Using an in-line stretch of large-diameter hose from the hydrant into the fire. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of positioning the first engine just past the fire building when using an in-line supply?

<p>To leave the front of the structure clear for an aerial device, should conditions deteriorate. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are cellar fires in balloon-frame houses particularly dangerous?

<p>They can rapidly extend to upper floors and the attic via the continuous wall cavities. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which action should be taken when encountering fire spreading up the exterior of a building with asphalt siding?

<p>Darken down the exterior fire and sweep the eaves to prevent fire spread into the attic. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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?

<p>Initially knock down the exterior fire spreading to the eaves before making entry. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In densely crowded areas with homes sheathed in asphalt, what should be the initial action of the first hoseline?

<p>Act as an exposure line to stop fire spread up the exterior of the fire building and to other structures. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should the hydrant firefighter do immediately after charging the supply line?

<p>Return to the apparatus to join the chauffeur and form the initial rapid intervention team (RIT). (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides securing a water supply and stretching an attack line, what additional action should the first unit to arrive at a house fire prioritize?

<p>Initiating search and rescue operations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason proper roof ventilation can limit overall fire damage?

<p>It reduces lateral fire spread and speeds up hoseline advancement and extinguishment efforts. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is the roof ventilation most likely to be a necessity?

<p>In well-advanced fires in the attic or cockloft areas. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to coordinate roof ventilation with hoseline operations?

<p>To ensure that the hoseline is in operation or about to operate before cutting the roof, allowing for effective fire attack. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following poses a great risk to firefighters operating on peaked roofs during fire conditions?

<p>The smaller size of roof joists and the use of lightweight wood in construction. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters do when encountering a roof constructed with 1x2-inch furring strips?

<p>Use extreme caution when putting any weight on the roof, utilizing a roof ladder or platform bucket if possible. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What technique is particularly effective for opening plywood sheathing during roof ventilation?

<p>Using the &quot;quick cut&quot; method. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

On roofs with higher pitches, what tool is recommended for making cuts if a power saw cannot be safely operated from a platform basket?

<p>A pick-head axe. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When the outline of a roof opening is being cut, how should a firefighter position themselves in relation to the cut?

<p>On the supported side of the cut. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors is making skylights a more prevalent aid to venting efforts?

<p>Architectural designs are increasingly incorporating skylights in homes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What conditions typically demand immediate assistance beyond a standard 6- to 10-member crew at a house fire?

<p>Fires that extend or originate in cellars and attics, fires where people are trapped or firefighters are injured, and serious fires in very large homes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When cutting a peaked roof for ventilation, what is a key consideration regarding the joists?

<p>Cut parallel to the joists for maximum support and the least bounce. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When operating near photovoltaic (PV) solar panels on a roof during a fire, what is the most critical safety precaution firefighters should take?

<p>Stay well away from the panels, as they generate powerful electrical currents that cannot be de-energized safely under fire conditions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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?

<p>The blunt end is less apt to get snagged on wiring and lath. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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?

<p>Making the hole on the downwind side of the peak helps the gases escape, while a hole on the upwind side causes heat to be blown back toward the hoseline crew. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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?

<p>To protect against potential exposure to sudden eruptions of fire and dangerous gases from the vent hole. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common mistake that can overload a roof and hinder ventilation efforts?

<p>Sending too many people to the roof. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In multistory homes, which design flaw significantly contributes to the rapid spread of fire and gases, acting like a chimney?

<p>The lack of an enclosed stairway. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of certain interior finishes in private dwellings contributes to extremely fast and hot fires?

<p>The installation of flimsy wood paneling directly over wood studs. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which area of a private dwelling should be the prime target of VEIS (vent, enter, isolate, and search) attempts, especially during nighttime fires?

<p>Upper floors, specifically the bedrooms. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What contributes to the high number of structural fires in one- and two-family homes in the United States?

<p>The way our homes are built and the myriad devices we use within them. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In private dwelling fires, where do the majority of fires typically begin?

<p>Below the second story, in areas such as the cellar or the first floor. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a two-story private dwelling fire, why is it crucial to prioritize stretching the first hoseline to protect bedroom exits?

<p>To ensure safe evacuation of occupants who are likely to be sleeping. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does the text emphasize that firefighters should plan for a third hoseline in advance, even though many house fires may not require it?

<p>To prepare for unforeseen fire spread or intensity that may overwhelm initial efforts. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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?

<p>It leaves the front of the structure clear for potential aerial device placement. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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)?

<p>Immediately call for a commercial fire response and utilize tactics suitable for larger structures. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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?

<p>To maximize the effectiveness of the ventilation by allowing gases to escape and preventing blowback toward the hoseline crew. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

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

In multistory homes, these act like chimneys, funneling fire and gases upward.

Open Floor Plans

Modern homes often have open layouts, combining the kitchen, living, and dining areas.

First Hoseline Goal

The initial hoseline must apply water between the fire and any occupants, usually positioning to get water on the staircase in multistory homes.

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Subsequent Hoselines

After the first line is used, use additional lines to back up the first one, cover the floor above, or address exposure hazards.

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Water Supply Needs

When setting up a water supply, plan for a flow of at least 400–600 gpm to supply three lines, with an extra 250 gpm for each wooden exposure.

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Fastest Water Application

The best method for applying water quickly involves an in-line stretch of large-diameter hose from the hydrant to the fire, using preconnected hoselines.

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Engine Positioning

The first engine should be positioned just past the fire building to keep the front clear for an aerial device.

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Asphalt Siding Issues

Asphalt siding is very combustible; when ignited, it produces tremendous radiant heat and black smoke, readily burning through the eaves into the attic.

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IC Hoseline Consideration

The incident commander must consider the available resources and time when deciding where to place the initial hoseline.

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First Hoseline Basic Task

The priority is to cut off threats to the interior stair or sleeping areas.

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Search Urgency

The time for occupant survival is short, so search must begin as soon as personnel arrive.

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Necessity of Roof Ventilation

When there are peaked roofs, proper roof ventilation will reduce lateral fire spread and speed up hoseline advance and extinguishment.

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Coordinating Ventilation

Don't cut the roof until the hoseline is in operation or about to operate so that the ventilation is coordinated with the application of water.

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Peaked Roof Dangers

Peaked roofs' pitch & small joists (2x6), make them hard to walk on/dangerous during a fire. Lightweight wood roofs won’t carry as great a live load as a flat roof.

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Older Roof Sheathing

This roof is easily cut and stepped through.

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Roof Shingles

They perform the roof’s main function: to keep out the weather

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Venting a Hard Roof

The best tactic to use when venting hard roof coverings is to remove covering before attacking the sheathing.

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Roof Ventilation Safety

Regardless of the tool, safety is always the first concern.

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Axe

Use an axe on high pitched roofs, if you can’t operate the saw from the basket of a platform, to avoid any sudden push or pull from kickback.

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Hole Placement

The hole should be made as close to the peak as possible to release the greatest amount of hot gases.

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Wind Awarenes

Venting the downwind side helps the gases escape. A hole on upwind side causes heat to be blown back toward crew.

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PV Panel Hazard

These panels generate powerful electrical currents, even after the main power is off. (Can't be turned off under fire conditions).

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Quick Cut

Only one joist/hinge allows roofing to hinge on the joist.

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Basic Rules for Cutting

Plan the cut, arrange it so that the wind is always at your back, and cut adjacent to the joists for maximum support.

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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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