Strategy and Tactics Chapter 9 + 10

Initial Response and Risk Assessment

• The first arriving officer should evaluate the situation to determine the best course of action.
• Risk/benefit analysis should be assessed to determine the potential risks and benefits of different actions.

Defensive Attack Strategies

• During the transition from offensive to defensive attack, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the situation and to prioritize safety.
• Defensive attacks are primarily used to protect exposures and prevent fire spread.
• The primary consideration for conducting defensive attacks is to protect people and property.
• The recommended tactic for protecting internal exposures in defensive mode is to use a remotely operated monitor or a large-caliber hose stream.

Water Application and Stream Placement

• The energy levels for radiant heat depend on the distance from the fire and the size of the flames.
• Applying water directly on exposed structures is considered the best tactic when the fire is not too large and the structure is not too heavily involved.
• The primary consideration in placing exterior streams is to take into account the wind direction, flame height, and location of the fire.

Conflagration Response and Strategy

• A conflagration in an urban setting refers to a large, uncontrolled fire that spreads quickly from building to building.
• Common contributing factors in urban conflagrations include strong winds, dry conditions, and closely spaced buildings.
• The primary means of fire extension from building to building as the flame front widens is through radiant heat and embers.
• The fire department is typically the best agency to manage the evacuation during a conflagration.
• The first step in developing a conflagration strategy is to identify potential fire spread routes and prioritize resource allocation.

Property Conservation and Overhaul

• Nonattack postures are often underused due to the potential for property damage.
• The primary damage in a fire is usually caused by water and smoke.
• Property conservation is generally considered no longer an issue when the fire is under control and the structure is safe to enter.
• The proper application of larger-than-needed hose streams can increase water damage.
• A recommended action to reduce water damage is to use a smaller hose stream and to apply water only where necessary.
• Removing a toilet can create a pathway for water to flow into adjacent areas.
• Before sending personnel into a confined space containing standing water, it should be ensured that the water is safe to enter and that the necessary precautions are taken.
• The purpose of overhaul in firefighting is to search for and extinguish any remaining hotspots or hidden fires.