I-B-09 Structural Fireground Procedures 06/21/2022

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Questions and Answers

Which cause of line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) involves a lack of leadership during operations?

Poor communications

Improper risk assessment

Lack of accountability

Lack of command (correct)

What must firefighters wear until the Incident Commander determines conditions are safe?

Only SCBA if smoke is visible

Standard uniforms

Lightweight gear

Protective clothing and SCBA (correct)

What misleading aspect is associated with the color of smoke?

It is always indicative of the smoke's danger level (correct)

It indicates the temperature of the fire

It determines the fire's speed

It helps identify the materials burning

What should Incident Commanders and firefighting personnel adhere to in order to minimize exposure risks?

SOP I-D-12 Fireground Contamination Reduction Program Signup and view all the answers

What action is recommended when firefighters receive an 'abandon' call?

Exit immediately, leaving behind any tools Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a prevailing cause of line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) identified by research?

Improper manpower allocation Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributes to firefighters' exposure to carcinogenic agents during operations?

Synthetic petro-chemical based materials Signup and view all the answers

What is a key requirement for firefighters operating in hazardous areas?

To wear protective clothing and SCBA Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Abandon Signal?

To alert personnel to leave the area immediately Signup and view all the answers

What does the All Clear announcement signify?

All Primary Searches have been completed Signup and view all the answers

Which strategy is implemented when no lives or property can be saved?

Defensive Strategy Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Demobilization (Demob)?

To release resources once the incident is stabilized Signup and view all the answers

During which search is the area thoroughly examined after the fire is controlled?

Secondary Search Signup and view all the answers

What activity does the Offense Strategy focus on?

Preservation of life and property Signup and view all the answers

What do Flow Paths refer to in fire incidents?

The pathways of smoke and heat spread during a fire Signup and view all the answers

What signifies a MAYDAY announcement?

A high-risk situation requiring immediate help Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of Tactical Priorities in a fire incident?

To define a hierarchy of strategic importance Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes the area where apparatus and personnel are stationed outside of the incident?

Base Signup and view all the answers

What does Level 1 Staging require of the responding units?

To be uncommitted and ready for immediate deployment Signup and view all the answers

Which report describes the conditions and actions at an incident site?

Progress Report Signup and view all the answers

What does the term Tactical Reserve refer to?

A reserve of resources for unplanned events Signup and view all the answers

What does the term Backup Line refer to in firefighting?

A hoseline for protecting the main attack unit Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the announcement 'Under Control'?

Forward progression of the fire has been stopped. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Vent, Enter, Isolate, Search (VEIS) procedure?

To isolate and search a specific area from the exterior. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Working Fire' refer to?

A structure fire that requires SCBA and a hoseline. Signup and view all the answers

When is a 'Withdraw' order typically declared?

As a proactive measure before potential hazards arise. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main responsibility of the Incident Commander (IC)?

To ensure all units and personnel on scene have an assignment. Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes size-up in incident management?

Gaining information to evaluate and mitigate the situation. Signup and view all the answers

What should units do in the Hazard Zone during Roll Call?

Prioritize the Roll Call for personnel present. Signup and view all the answers

What is a tactical reserve's purpose during an incident?

To provide additional resources for unanticipated changes. Signup and view all the answers

Which phase is NOT part of the size-up process?

Final report submission to headquarters. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the Passport Accountability System utilized during emergencies?

To ensure safety and accountability. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary function of the Incident Command System (ICS)?

To establish command at various incident levels. Signup and view all the answers

What should the first MDFR resource arriving at the scene do?

Establish Command as described in guidelines. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of maintaining an adequate tactical reserve?

To ensure readiness for unanticipated changes. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Incident Commander do if search crews are delayed or cannot access an area?

Assign additional resources to search the area. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary design of a thermal imaging camera (TIC) in search operations?

To assist but not replace other search methods. Signup and view all the answers

What is the safest strategy for personnel performing VEIS regarding their entry point?

Minimize time between breaking the window and closing the door. Signup and view all the answers

When conducting a primary search, what should be the focus of initial resources?

To locate and rescue trapped occupants as early as possible. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following can assist in locating the fire?

Observing smoke movement/build-up. Signup and view all the answers

In fire control, what is the primary goal of confining the fire?

To prevent uninvolved areas from becoming involved. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Unit Officer in Charge (OIC) do when approached by a bystander regarding a trapped person?

Have the bystander guide them to the last known location of the victim. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum diameter hoseline required for interior firefighting?

1¾-inch diameter hoseline. Signup and view all the answers

Why should personnel performing VEIS be wary of breaking a window during operations?

It may create a dangerous flow path if not managed properly. Signup and view all the answers

When should exterior doors or windows be opened or closed by crews?

Only after coordination with the Incident Commander. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary action taken on the fireground by the first unit that responds?

Stretch and place the initial hoseline. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Unit OIC assess just prior to venting an opening?

Indications of preflashover or backdraft signs. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if fire attack is delayed at an incident with trapped occupants?

Proceed with search and rescue efforts right away. Signup and view all the answers

What must the Incident Commander confirm after switching to a defensive mode of operation?

All units received the order and conducted a roll call. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the tactical priorities during a fire incident?

Property Accountability Signup and view all the answers

What kind of search is indicated when the Incident Commander transmits an 'All Clear' signal?

Primary Search Signup and view all the answers

Why should firefighters perform a risk assessment during an incident?

To assess the viability of victims and conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial action typically taken on the fireground to address all three tactical priorities?

Stretching an attack line to the seat of the fire. Signup and view all the answers

What determines the intensity of the Primary Search during an incident?

Factors such as structure type and fire location. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions should NOT be taken when evaluating a switch back to offensive operations?

Immediately send personnel inside. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to conduct a Secondary Search after an incident is stabilized?

To find additional victims who may not have been located. Signup and view all the answers

What does the acronym RIC stand for in the context of fire operations?

Rescue Intervention Crew. Signup and view all the answers

In what situation would an Incident Commander typically switch to a defensive operation?

When there is significant uncontrollable fire or structural instability. Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'Fire under control' announcement indicate?

Fire has been knocked down. Signup and view all the answers

Where should search teams first concentrate their efforts during a Primary Search?

Areas with the highest likelihood of occupant location, such as bedrooms. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major benefit of conducting an early aggressive Primary Search?

The best chance for survival of trapped occupants. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about fire statistics is true regarding searching for occupants?

Victims may be found behind closed doors in survivable areas. Signup and view all the answers

What should be considered when additional gallons per minute (GPMs) are required in firefighting?

Deploying a secondary attack line of equal or greater diameter Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary objective of a transitional attack in firefighting?

To reduce temperature and confine the fire Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario requires the deployment of a backup line?

When necessary to protect crews during firefighting operations Signup and view all the answers

How should personnel maintain awareness after a fire has been placed under control?

By remaining vigilant for rekindles and extensions Signup and view all the answers

What is the best approach when the original structure is a total loss?

To prioritize exposure protection Signup and view all the answers

What key aspect must be coordinated during a transitional attack?

Communication must ensure safety of personnel inside Signup and view all the answers

During property conservation, what action should be prioritized?

Shutting off the water supply to reduce damage Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if fixed fire suppression systems are present during a fire?

Prioritize supplying the fixed fire suppression system Signup and view all the answers

How should water application begin during a transitional attack?

From outside directed at the ceiling from the opening Signup and view all the answers

What should units involved in interior suppression activities communicate to the IC?

When they have contained or confined the fire Signup and view all the answers

Which is NOT a technique associated with conducting a transitional attack?

Ventilate before the hoseline is deployed Signup and view all the answers

What is a salvage operation focused on during property conservation?

Utilizing salvage covers and monitoring suppression Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential limitation when using booster lines?

They are limited for use on small inconsequential fires Signup and view all the answers

How should windows be managed during salvage operations?

Avoid breaking to accomplish ventilation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for not allowing the intake pressure to drop below 20 psi?

To avoid contamination of the drinking water supply Signup and view all the answers

What should be the first priority in demobilizing firefighters on scene?

Units that have been the most exposed to hazardous atmospheres Signup and view all the answers

What should be the approach when venting for fire?

To control the fire's spread towards a specified location Signup and view all the answers

When should a declaration of 'abandon' be used?

When fire conditions are rapidly deteriorating and immediate exit is needed Signup and view all the answers

When is it especially critical to utilize a coordinated fire attack?

When there is a possibility of flashover or backdraft Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical consideration for demobilization other than unit order?

Equipment needs on scene Signup and view all the answers

What can happen if a ventilation-limited fire receives fresh air?

Rapid and hostile fire growth may occur Signup and view all the answers

Who should be consulted for resource needs during demobilization?

On-scene Fire Investigator Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes bi-directional flow in a fire situation?

Air enters and smoke exits through the same opening Signup and view all the answers

How does wind affect the flow path of a fire?

It creates a 'blowtorch effect' at exhaust openings Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a proactive removal of firefighters from a structure?

Withdraw Signup and view all the answers

What must be done before any units are demobilized?

Conduct a debriefing Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of not conducting a proper size-up before entering a structure fire?

It may mislead the firefighters about fire conditions Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial recommendation for controlling flow paths during a fire incident?

Limit the openings for entry until ready to engage Signup and view all the answers

What when necessary, can the FAO do during the withdrawal or abandonment process?

Sound an alert tone to inform units Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario would most likely require a rapid withdrawal from a hazardous area?

A sudden structural collapse or BLEVE condition Signup and view all the answers

What are the three activities that must be coordinated when recognizing a ventilation-limited structure fire?

Entry, ventilation, and search & rescue Signup and view all the answers

Which of these personnel might make a declaration to abandon a scene in an emergency?

Any unit officer in the area of concern Signup and view all the answers

What type of ventilation is performed by using fans to force air and smoke out of a structure?

Mechanical ventilation Signup and view all the answers

What occurs during uni-directional flow in a fire scenario?

Only smoke exits through the opening while air flows in elsewhere Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary reasons to withdraw or abandon a structure?

Rapid, uncontrollable deterioration of fire conditions Signup and view all the answers

What happens when firefighters ventilate a structure before having a charged hoseline?

They may cause flashover due to rapid air introduction Signup and view all the answers

What is required for units considered for demobilization?

They should have processed through and been released by the Rehab Unit Leader Signup and view all the answers

What role does controlling the flow path of a fire play in the safety of firefighters?

It significantly reduces serious injuries and fatalities Signup and view all the answers

When might an 'Emergency Traffic' announcement be made?

To announce a withdrawal or abandonment Signup and view all the answers

In the event of a communication failure, what signal may be used to indicate 'abandon'?

Three 10-second air horn blasts Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about withdrawal and abandonment is true?

Withdrawal is less urgent than abandonment Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of natural ventilation over mechanical ventilation?

It can effectively eliminate CO without equipment. Signup and view all the answers

What must be confirmed before using Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV)?

Knowledge of the location of trapped victims. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following techniques can be initiated after the knockdown of a fire?

Hydraulic ventilation. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential risk of venting windward-side windows?

Wind-driven fire conditions. Signup and view all the answers

When performing vertical ventilation, what is critical to assess before operations?

The roof's structural integrity. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum size recommended for a vertical ventilation opening in residential structures?

4-ft x 4-ft Signup and view all the answers

Why should caution be exercised when utilizing hydraulic ventilation?

There is a risk of re-igniting the fire. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement regarding inspection openings before vertical ventilation is correct?

Inspection openings must penetrate the roof assembly. Signup and view all the answers

What factors need to be reported prior to vertical ventilation operations?

Presence of dead or concentrated loads. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary goals of creating openings in the roof during vertical ventilation?

To move smoke and heat from the area. Signup and view all the answers

What condition could prompt firefighters to extinguish the fire from underneath rather than from the roof?

If the roof is too fragile. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a reason for checking conditions on unseen sides of a building prior to ventilation?

To discover hidden victims. Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial step to be taken before any crews start operations on the roof?

Sounding the roof for structural integrity. Signup and view all the answers

What analysis must the Incident Commander conduct prior to beginning overhaul activities?

Risk vs. benefit analysis Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is part of the general guidance for overhaul activities?

Search for extension on six sides Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to shut off electric power to the areas where personnel are working during overhaul?

To avoid electrocution hazards Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to avoid rekindles hours after units have left the scene?

Thoroughly examine attics for cellulose insulation Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of utilizing Thermal Imaging Cameras (TICs) during overhaul operations?

To assist in finding hot spots Signup and view all the answers

What should be the primary consideration during the conservation of property post-fire?

Reduction of traumatic impact to occupants Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical step when responding to fires in closed commercial occupancies?

Establish a water supply before forcing entry Signup and view all the answers

What might result from a growing volume of fire in large areas like lumber yards?

Reduction of residual pressure in water mains Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended action at most multi-company fire incidents?

First suppression company assumes attack and investigative duties Signup and view all the answers

When preparing for a water supply from a hydrant, what should be anticipated?

Double tapping for an additional large-diameter hose Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT part of the general guidance during overhaul?

Search for extension using four sides Signup and view all the answers

What level of carbon monoxide must be metered before releasing the property back to its occupant?

Below 9 ppm Signup and view all the answers

What should be communicated to the nozzle team as the water level decreases?

Water level at ½ tank, ¼ tank, and loss of water supply Signup and view all the answers

What is the effectiveness of limiting master stream tip sizes during firefighting?

Reduces gallons per minute (GPM) and conserves water Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the driver/operator when an attack begins off of the booster tank?

Ensuring water supply readiness and alerting the nozzle team Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of conducting a size-up upon arrival at an incident scene?

To assess conditions and dictate immediate actions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors must be immediately identified during size-up?

Construction, size, and occupancy factors Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a complete 360° walk-around cannot be performed upon arrival?

Transmit this information via radio Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to evaluate wind conditions during size-up?

To anticipate fire spread and hazards Signup and view all the answers

What should the first-arriving Engine/Tanker apparatus prioritize when positioning?

Facilitating hoseline deployment and supplying an FDC Signup and view all the answers

During ongoing size-up, which of the following should be monitored continuously?

Conditions that could harm firefighters Signup and view all the answers

What facilitates the best effectiveness of first-arriving aerial apparatus?

Maximizing the use of aerial devices for laddering and master stream applications Signup and view all the answers

What is the ideal position for the first-arriving Rescue apparatus?

In a manner that does not obstruct later-arriving vehicles Signup and view all the answers

What important factor should be considered before beginning the overhaul phase?

Structural stability assessment Signup and view all the answers

What are the two principal modes of operation that MDFR employs?

Offensive and defensive Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to maintain a clear access path for later-arriving apparatus?

To ensure rapid deployment of additional resources Signup and view all the answers

What should later-arriving units do in the absence of specific IC direction?

Stage Level 1 and await assignment Signup and view all the answers

What potential hazards should be immediately communicated during size-up?

Presence of hazardous materials Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Firefighting Command and Safety

Strong command, discipline, and situational awareness are essential for effective firefighting.
National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) identified five leading causes of line-of-duty deaths (LODDs): lack of command, improper risk assessment, lack of accountability, poor communications, and failure to follow SOPs/SOGs.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Firefighting personnel must wear protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) in hazardous areas until deemed safe by the Incident Commander (IC).
Color of smoke is not a reliable indicator of danger; harmful effects can occur without visible signs.

Carcinogenic Exposure

Operations can expose firefighters to carcinogenic agents, including gases produced by synthetic materials even without flames.
Adherence to the Fireground Contamination Reduction Program (SOP I-D-12) is critical to reduce exposures and cross-contamination.

Emergency Protocols

Abandon: Indicates immediate danger; firefighting personnel must exit without equipment.
Abandon Signal: Air horn sequence of 10 seconds of sound followed by 10 seconds of silence, repeated three times to signal imminent danger.
All Clear: IC announces completion of Primary Searches but does not confirm all victims found; a Secondary Search is still required.

Incident Management

Base: Remote staging area for units not ready for immediate deployment.
Defensive Strategy: Deployed when no lives or properties can be saved; focus on preventing further incident escalation.
Demobilization (Demob): Planned release of resources after stabilizing incidents.

Tactical Communication

MAYDAY: Radio call for immediate assistance for firefighter safety.
Offensive Strategy: Aimed at saving lives and property; risks calibrated based on situation assessment.
Operational Commands: First-arriving resource establishes Command; freelancing by units is prohibited.

Size-Up Process

Critical for evaluating incident conditions and formulating a plan; involves facts, probabilities, situational assessments, decisions, and operational planning.
Initial Phase: Occurs upon alarm receipt and arrival; ongoing assessment until incident closure.
Size-up must consider time of day, location, potential hazards, resource appropriateness, and environmental conditions such as wind speed.

Apparatus Placement

First-arriving apparatus must strategically position for effective operations while ensuring later-arriving units have access.
Engine/Tanker should facilitate hoseline deployment; Aerial apparatus positioning maximizes usage of aerial devices.

Modes of Operation

Two main modes: offensive (for saving lives/property) and defensive (when no lives or properties can be saved).
Risk assessment is essential in determining the most effective mode of operation, prioritizing personnel safety and potential rescue opportunities.### Incident Management Operations
Offensive operations are initiated to save life and property until the situation is controlled or too dangerous to continue.
Defensive operations are warranted in cases of uncontrollable fire, structural instability, or insufficient resources on scene.
The Incident Commander (IC) must alert all units via an alert tone when switching to a defensive strategy and confirm receipt of the order.
Resource needs are reassessed, and additional alarms may be requested for changes in operations.

Tactical Priorities

Three main tactical priorities in fire incidents are Rescue, Fire Control, and Property Conservation.
Objectives must be approached in priority order; Rescue comes first, followed by Fire Control and then Property Conservation.
Each priority is measured by specific benchmarks communicated via radio by the Unit Officer In Charge (OIC) and the IC.

Rescue Operations

Primary Search is conducted in all structures under offensive strategy, focusing on potential victim locations.
Risk assessment must be performed; the level of risk should match fire conditions and victims' viability.
An "All Clear" signal denotes that the Primary Search is completed, although it does not guarantee all occupants are safe (a Secondary Search is still required).
Searches must prioritize high likelihood areas for occupant presence, such as bedrooms and escape routes.

Fire Location, Control, and Extinguishment

Fire Control encompasses locating, confining, and extinguishing the fire, with initial hoseline placement being critical.
Confining the fire typically involves accessing the structure through the front entrance where possible.
Extinguishment requires applying water to the fire seat at an appropriate flow rate based on the diameter of the hoseline deployed.

Transitional Attack

A transitional attack aims to rapidly cool and confine fire before entry, maintaining safe conditions within the structure for firefighters.
Coordination of actions, such as ventilation and effective water application, is crucial for successful transitional attack execution.

Property Conservation Efforts

Property conservation involves both salvage and overhaul operations to protect belongings from fire, smoke, and water damage.
Salvage includes removing items, utilizing covers, and managing water damage by controlling sprinkler systems.
Overhaul requires thorough examination for hidden fire, maintaining scene safety, and ensuring CO levels are below 9 ppm before occupant re-entry.

Special Considerations

Structures with converted living spaces need careful inspection during searches due to safety concerns and potential hidden occupants.
Personnel conducting searches or fire suppression must adhere to safety protocols, utilizing tools like thermal imaging cameras and lifelines.
Coordination with the IC for safety measures, especially when executing VEIS (Vent, Enter, Isolate, Search) techniques, is essential for crew safety and effectiveness.### Fire Investigation and Property Conservation
Firefighters may assist in removing items after the investigation to lessen trauma and reduce loss.
Prioritize search and fire suppression over property conservation efforts.

Water Supply Management

At multi-company incidents, the first suppression company handles investigation and attack, while later units focus on water supply.
Importance of understanding pump limitations based on tank size, fire volume, and hydrant locations.
Nozzle teams should use booster tank water judiciously and retreat if supply runs low, with the driver/operator communicating water levels clearly.
Commercial fires can become ventilation-limited; establish water supply before entry to minimize fire intensity upon opening.

Hydrant Usage and Water Supply Evolutions

Fire hydrants can flow maximum water from all outlets; plan for double-tapping to establish second intake without interrupting flow.
Crews must be trained in various water supply SOPs, including Forward Hose Lay and Relay Pumping.
Avoid dropping intake pressure below 20 psi to prevent contamination in the water supply system.

Ventilation Techniques

Ventilation aims to remove smoke and combustion products; it's essential for effective fire control and life safety.
A coordinated fire attack aligns ventilation openings with nozzle water application to avoid fire intensification.
Recognize ventilation-limited fires, where introducing fresh air can rapidly escalate fire conditions.
Control flow paths to limit fire growth and protect firefighters; bi-directional and uni-directional flows differ based on opening designs.

Fire Behavior and Environmental Considerations

Wind influences flow paths; high winds can pose risks by altering smoke and fire movements.
Conduct proper size-ups to anticipate risks when entering structures from different sides.
Control flow paths to slow flashover and lower risks of serious injuries.

Ventilation Methods

Natural ventilation is preferred when conditions allow; mechanical ventilation (PPV) requires IC approval and knowledge of fire locations.
Hydraulic ventilation can be used after fire knockdown to enhance air exchange without using mechanical means.
Be cautious with horizontal and vertical ventilation; ensure it’s done in conjunction with nozzle teams to avoid fire acceleration.

Demobilization Procedures

Demobilization begins once the fire is declared out, considering exposure levels and the need for rapid decontamination of first-arriving units.
Specialty units and less committed apparatus should be prioritized for demobilization.
Conduct a debriefing before releasing units; consult with supervisors to manage resource needs.

Emergency Withdrawal or Abandonment

Two protocols exist for evacuation: "withdraw" for controlled exits and "abandon" for immediate danger.
Reasons for these declarations include structural compromises, rapid fire conditions, or a shift from offensive to defensive strategies.
Responsibility for declarations may extend to Safety Officers or unit officers under certain circumstances.

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Test your knowledge on the causes of line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) in firefighting and safety protocols. This quiz covers key concepts like leadership roles, safety gear requirements, and smoke color misconceptions. Ensure you understand best practices for minimizing exposure risks in emergency operations.