Engine Ops | Experience

Past Columbus Fire Experiences

• The section's main objective is to share experiences and lessons learned from past fires to improve future responses.
• The current generation of firefighting is different from 30-40 years ago due to changes in building materials, furnishings, and occupant behaviors.

Reasons for Decrease in Fires

• One reason for the decrease in fire frequency is the implementation of fire prevention and code enforcement measures.

Resources for CFD

• The collective experience and knowledge of senior firefighters are highlighted as one of the biggest resources for the Columbus Fire Department (CFD).

Tone and Purpose

• The overall tone of the section is reflective and instructive, aiming to share valuable lessons from past experiences to improve future responses.
• The purpose of sharing past Columbus Fire Experiences is to learn from them and apply those lessons to future fires.

Training and High-Pressure Situations

• The text implies that training is crucial in handling high-pressure situations, as it allows firefighters to develop the necessary skills and instincts to respond effectively.

Reverse Laying and Series Supply Operations

• The important lesson learned about reverse laying is not specified, but it is mentioned as a significant takeaway.
• The most significant benefit of series supply operations is not stated explicitly, but it is highlighted as an important aspect of firefighting.

Morning Equipment Checks and Captain Ian Garriott's Instruction

• It is highlighted as uncommon for firefighters to check the tank water level during morning equipment checks.
• Captain Ian Garriott instructed Ladder 23 to maintain pressure during an incident.

Tactical Tidbits

• The mindset of engine companies should be to prioritize water delivery and have a solid understanding of water supply systems.
• The first line in a fire situation should be stretched quickly to deliver water as soon as possible.
• Water delivery systems should be emphasized, and engine companies should have a solid understanding of water supply systems.
• When there is smoke on the second floor only, the primary advice is to go defensive.
• Engine companies should have a solid understanding of water supply systems and be good at reverse laying.
• Water supply should be a top priority, and engine companies should aim to have a continuous water supply.
• Water use on the fire benchmark should be emphasized, and engine companies should prioritize water delivery.
• High heat at low levels in buildings can be a significant challenge, and firefighters should be prepared to handle it.
• When laying lines going into the scene, coordination with ventilation is crucial.
• Coordinating fire attack with ventilation is essential to a successful response.

Initial Response and Elevated Master Stream

• The main issue faced by crews initially on the scene was setting up an elevated master stream with one of the ladders.
• It was challenging to set up an elevated master stream with one of the ladders due to the location.
• Battalion 4 ordered the next engine company to supply water to the scene.

Supply Lines and Defensive Master Streams

• Both supply lines operating off the same main and feeder were unable to supply all the defensive master streams needed.
• Crews needed both deck guns and elevated streams to handle the situation.

Engine 8 Crew's Actions

• Engine 8 crew decided to reverse lay out to the hydrant that the initial supply line had been established on due to difficulty finding an appropriate hydrant.
• After connecting Engine 8 to the hydrant and charging the 5-inch line, the crew took action to supply water to the scene.

Supplying Master Streams and Familiarity with Incidents

• It was crucial to supply both the ladder master stream and initial supply engine with sufficient water to ensure a successful response.
• Familiarity with past incidents at the dispatched location, including access limitations and water main information, was helpful in responding to the situation effectively.