Firefighting Tactics and Techniques

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Questions and Answers

What does the 'L' in L.U.N.A.R. stand for?

Ladder usage instructions

Location of hydrants

Lighting required

Last known location (correct)

Which action should be taken if a defensive attack is necessary?

Wait for further instructions from the control room

Immediately advance into the structure

Drop a '252' and proceed to the nearest hydrant (correct)

Switch to an interior attack strategy

How many lengths of hose are recommended for the second floor?

Six lengths

Seven lengths

Five lengths (correct)

Four lengths

When positioning an interior attack apparatus, what should be monitored for?

Obstructions like wires and fire output Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary use of the first water line during a rescue?

To protect members conducting the search Signup and view all the answers

What strategy should be employed for hose line placement?

Leave a significant amount of hose out ready for use Signup and view all the answers

What is the main objective when the first pumper arrives at a fire scene?

To contain the fire effectively Signup and view all the answers

What should be the priority when advancing into a structure?

To locate the staircase from the Basement to the Attic Signup and view all the answers

What does a '252' refer to in firefighting terms?

A configuration of hose lines Signup and view all the answers

Which hose line is typically used to feed a pumper or aerial?

5” line Signup and view all the answers

Which situation would prompt a firefighter to drop a ‘252’ line?

When conditions dictate a defensive attack Signup and view all the answers

Why is a 2½” line preferred over a 1¾” line in certain firefighting situations?

It has a higher flow rate, allowing for better water delivery. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical first step when establishing a defensive exterior attack?

Hook up to the hydrant for a reliable water source Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'flexibility and good judgment' refer to in firefighting?

Adjusting tactics based on the fire situation Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended flow rate for a 1¾” hose line?

150-185 gpm Signup and view all the answers

What should be done after verifying that all hose is out of the bed?

Charge the hose and check for kinks Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary consideration when determining the length of hose to stretch?

The entry point and current fire situation Signup and view all the answers

Why is securing the staircase considered crucial in fire control?

It controls the fire's spread to upper floors Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum suggested flow rate for a 2½” hose line?

250 gpm Signup and view all the answers

In defensive firefighting strategies, what does 'dropping a 252' primarily aim to achieve?

Maximizing water flow to contain the fire Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Driver play in the hose line management during a fire scene?

Charges the hose and verifies all hose is deployed Signup and view all the answers

What is typically the main objective when establishing a defensive position at a fire?

Confine the fire and protect nearby exposures Signup and view all the answers

When might the driver initially charge the pump panel side line with booster tank water?

Before hooking up to the hydrant Signup and view all the answers

What advantage does a 2½” line have over a 1¾” line during a firefighting operation?

It can deliver more water at a higher flow rate Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario could indicate the need for an aggressive interior attack?

There are visible victims trapped inside Signup and view all the answers

What should the first line of the hose protect during a rescue operation?

The most endangered exposures Signup and view all the answers

What action should be prioritized when positioning an interior attack apparatus?

Avoiding any obstructions Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is crucial when establishing a defensive attack?

Laying enough hose to cover exposures Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended hose length to be taken into a structure for an interior attack on the first floor?

Four lengths Signup and view all the answers

When deploying from a staircase during an interior attack, which route is preferable?

Using the basement-to-attic staircase Signup and view all the answers

Which length of hose is specifically required to reach the attic during an interior attack?

Six lengths Signup and view all the answers

In which scenario is it essential to fan out hose lines?

To prevent line kinks and ensure flow Signup and view all the answers

What is one primary resource needed for establishing a direct feed from a hydrant?

A minimum of one length of hose Signup and view all the answers

What consideration should be given regarding a nearby hydrant?

Utilizing it can enhance water accessibility Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal when responding to a fire scene as the first pumper?

Locate, confine, and extinguish the fire Signup and view all the answers

Why is using a '252' advantageous during a defensive attack?

It provides a continual water source with a higher flow rate Signup and view all the answers

What is a key action for the driver when preparing to deploy hose lines?

Verify all hose is out of the bed Signup and view all the answers

What should be monitored as the hose is advanced into a structure?

Kinks and pinch points in the hose line Signup and view all the answers

When dropping a '252' for a defensive attack, what is the first step?

Proceed to the nearest hydrant Signup and view all the answers

What is essential to consider when executing a defensive firefighting strategy?

Confining the fire before attempting extinguishment Signup and view all the answers

What flow rate is typical for a 2½” hose line?

250 - 325 gpm Signup and view all the answers

What action should the hook-up member prioritize after the driver charges the pump panel side line?

Hook up to the hydrant for water supply Signup and view all the answers

What might be an objective for using two 2½” lines instead of one 1¾” line?

To ensure a higher flow rate and better coverage Signup and view all the answers

What should be the firefighter's approach if a defensive attack is required?

Drop the '252' and cover exposures effectively Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to ensure effective communication during firefighting operations involving hydrants?

Inform other companies via radio about the hydrant. Signup and view all the answers

When conducting an offensive interior attack, which positioning strategy is emphasized?

Maintaining a three-sided view and watching for obstructions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of fanning out the hose lines during an operation?

To open up kinks and ensure smooth water flow. Signup and view all the answers

During the establishment of a defensive attack, what is the primary objective of utilizing a '252'?

To lay out enough hose to cover separate exposures. Signup and view all the answers

What form of water supply should the driver rely on before hooking up to the hydrant during a defensive attack?

Booster tank water. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended strategy regarding more than enough hose during an interior attack?

Take in only the necessary length and leave remaining hose fanned outside. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes an advantage of having a nearby hydrant during firefighting activities?

Ability to reach all parts of the structure without needing additional hose. Signup and view all the answers

What primary factor should guide the placement of the first line of hose during a rescue operation?

Covering the most endangered escape route for victims. Signup and view all the answers

In fire situations requiring extensive hose lengths, what is critical for high-rise and commercial structures?

Employing 2½” hoses for better water flow and reach. Signup and view all the answers

When should the driver prioritize establishing a direct feed from a hydrant?

As soon as water supply from the booster tank is secured. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

LUNAR

Acronym that stands for Last known Location, Unit assignment, Member’s name, Assignments, and Resources needed

Offensive Interior Attack

Initial apparatus placement should allow space for incoming trucks
Position the rig for a 3-sided view of the structure
Ensure no obstructions (wires, fire, windows, etc.)
Check for hydrants for direct feed if suitable
1 or 2 lengths of 5” hose can utilize a close hydrant
Inform other companies of hydrant availability
Second in command for pumpers will connect to the hydrant for direct feed

Defensive Exterior Attack

Drop a "252" (1-5" and 2-2 ½" hose lines) and proceed to the nearest hydrant
Position hand lines to effectively cover exposures (lay in enough hose)
Driver charges pump panel side line first with booster tank water, then connects to the hydrant
Once hydrant water is established, charge the second 2 ½” line
Place the pump panel side line in the most beneficial position
The 5" line can feed either a pumper or aerial, at the Chief's discretion

Hose Line Lengths

Interior 4 lengths minimum
Exterior 2½” must reach around the building
High-rise and commercial structures use 2½” hose

Line Placement

If rescue is needed, use the first line to protect search members and cover victims escape route
Direct attack on the seat of the fire for extinguishment
Choose the most advantageous entry point (front or side door)
Use the first line to protect the most endangered exposures from an exterior defensive position
Fan out hose lines to prevent kinks
Only bring enough hose into the structure to reach the fire, leaving the rest outside fanned out

Interior Line

Locate the staircase from the basement to the attic and deploy from there
"Gain control of the staircase, gain control of the building."
Determine which length line to stretch and entry point
Assist the attack member with the stretch and back them up
Attack member takes the nozzle, proceeds to the entry point with three folds
Hook-up member fans out the remaining hose from the bed
Constantly advance the hose line, checking for kinks and pinch points
Driver verifies all hose is out of the bed before charging, charges hose, and checks for kinks

First Engine on Location

Try to contain the fire, whether offensively or defensively
The main objective is to cut off the fire and extinguish it
Contain the fire in the room of origin and protect stairs for victim search
Laying off a "252" might be the initial objective based on the situation (exposures protection)
Remember locate, confine, and extinguish while maintaining crew safety
Flexibility and good judgment are crucial for successful and safe firefighting

Defensive Exterior Attack (Continued)

The advantage of using 2 – 2½” lines vs 1 – 1¾” is increased flow rate
Dropping a "252" upon arrival provides a better advantage in controlling the fire, confining it and keeping it out of exposures
The only delay when using a "252" compared to a 1¾" is the travel time to the hydrant
Gain four times the amount of water and a continuous water source

Flow Rates

1¾” lines: 150 – 185 gpm (gallons per minute)
2½” lines: 250 -325 gpm

L.U.N.A.R. Acronym

L.U.N.A.R. stands for Last known location, Unit Assignment, Member's name, Assignments, and Resources needed.

Offensive Interior Attack

Ensure initial apparatus placement provides enough space for incoming trucks.
Position the rig for a three-sided view of the structure.
Be cautious of potential obstructions like wires or fire escaping windows.
Verify the presence of nearby hydrants. Utilize a nearby hydrant if it allows for reaching all areas of the structure without additional hose (direct feed).
Employ one or two lengths of 5" hose to take advantage of a nearby hydrant.
Inform other companies of the hydrant's accessibility through radio communication. The second pumper will then connect the hydrant to the first pumper (direct feed).

Defensive Exterior Attack

In situations requiring a defensive attack, lay down a "252" – a 5" line and two 2.5" hose lines – and proceed to the closest hydrant.
Position the handlines strategically to cover exposures effectively.
The driver charges the pump panel side line first with booster tank water while the hook-up member connects the hydrant. Charge the second 2.5" line after hydrant water is established.
Position the pump panel side line at the most advantageous location.
The 5" line serves as a feeder for either a pumper or aerial unit, at the discretion of the chief.

Hose Line Length

Utilize four lengths for the first floor, five lengths for the second floor, and six lengths for the attic.
Maintain a minimum of four lengths for interior hose use.
Ensure sufficient 2.5" exterior hose length to reach around the building.
Consider using 2.5" hose lines for high-rise or commercial fires.

Line Placement

Prioritize the placement of the first hose line to protect rescue efforts and provide a safe escape route for victims.
Directly attack the source of the fire and prioritize extinguishing it.
Determine the most advantageous entry point, whether through the front or side door, for an effective action plan.
Employ the first hose line to shield the most vulnerable exposures from an exterior defensive position.
Fan out the line to eliminate kinks in the hose.
Extend only sufficient hose into the structure to reach the fire. Leave the remaining hose outside, fanned out and ready for advancement.

Interior Line

Identify the staircase connecting the basement to the attic and deploy the hose from there. Gaining control of the staircase essentially secures the building.
The officer determines the hose length and entry point, assisting the attack member with the stretch.
The attack member takes charge of the nozzle, folds it thrice, and proceeds to the entry point.
The hook-up member retrieves the remaining hose from the bed and fans it out.
Continuously advance the hose line, checking for kinks or pinch points.
The driver ensures all hose is out of the bed before charging, then charges the hose and inspects for kinks.

First Engine on Location

The first pumper on scene is tasked with containing the fire.
Prioritize containment, whether by aggressive interior attack or a defensive approach.
The goal might involve confining the fire to the room of origin and protecting the staircase during victim search by truck crews.
Consider deploying a "252", including a 5" feed line with two 2.5" hand lines for protecting exposures.
Remember the principles of locate, confine, and extinguish while prioritizing crew safety.
Flexibility and sound judgement are crucial for a successful and safe firefight.

Flow Rates

Recommended minimum flow rates: 1.75" lines - 150-185 gpm, 2.5" lines - 250-325 gpm.
The 2.5" line, while less versatile than the 1.75", offers almost double the flow rate, making it advantageous in defensive scenarios.
Deploying a "252" provides a significant water advantage, with nearly four times the flow rate and a continuous water supply, compared to a single 1.75" line.
The delay in utilizing a "252" is minimal compared to a 1.75" line, as it is only the travel time to the hydrant.

L.U.N.A.R. Acronym

Acronym for quick reference during fire operations:
- L - Last known location
- U - Unit assignment
- N - Member’s name
- A - Assignments
- R - Resources needed

Offensive Interior Attack

Initial apparatus placement should create space for incoming trucks.
Rig positioning should allow for a three-sided view of the building.
Check for obstructions (wires, fire, etc.) before proceeding.
Prioritize hydrant use.
- Utilize a nearby hydrant if it allows for reaching all parts of the structure without additional hose.
- One or two lengths of 5-inch hose are sufficient for a close hydrant.
- Inform other units about the hydrant availability.
- The second pumper is responsible for connecting to the hydrant.

Defensive Exterior Attack

If conditions necessitate a defensive attack:
- Deploy a "252" (1-5 inch hose and 2-2 ½ inch hose lines).
- Proceed to the nearest hydrant.
- Position hand lines to cover exposures.
- The Driver charges the pump panel side line with booster tank water initially.
- Once connected to the hydrant, charge the second 2 ½-inch line.
- Place the pump panel side line at the most strategic location.
- The 5-inch line can be used to supply a pumper or an aerial (Chief's decision).

Hose Line Length Considerations

Interior
- Minimum four lengths of hose required for interior operations.
Exterior
- Two and a half inch (2 ½) inch exterior hose must be long enough to reach around the building.

Recommended Hose Lengths For Different Floor Levels

First floor - four lengths
Second floor - five lengths
Attic - six lengths

Line Placement Strategies

Rescue priority - First line protects search and rescue teams, covering their escape route.
Direct attack - Target and extinguish the fire source directly.
Entry point selection - Choose the front or side door as the most advantageous entry point.
Exposure protection - Utilize the first line to shield exposed areas from a defensive exterior position.
Hose management - Fan out the hose line to prevent kinks.
Adequate reach - Take only enough hose into the building to reach the fire, ensuring the remaining hose is fanned out outside for advancing.

Interior Line Deployment

Staircase focus - Identify the main staircase and deploy the line from there (control the stairs, control the building).
Officer responsibilities - The officer determines line length, entry point, and assists the attack member with the stretch, providing back up.
Attack member responsibilities - Takes the nozzle, proceeds to the entry point, and hooks up the remaining hose.
Hook-up member responsibilities - Removes the remaining hose from the bed and fans it out.
Driver responsibilities - Verifies all hose is out of the bed, charges the hose, and checks for kinks.

First Engine On Location Responsibilities

Fire containment - The first engine's priority is to contain the fire regardless of the attack mode.
Extinguishment - The main objective is to cut off the fire and extinguish it.
Compartmentalization - The goal might be to confine the fire to the room of origin and protect the stairs while searching for victims.
Exposure protection - Laying a "252" including a 5-inch feed line and two 2 ½-inch handlines to protect exposures might be the initial objective.
Flexibility and judgement - Adaptability and sound judgement are crucial for safe and effective firefight operations.
Locate, Confine, Extinguish - Remember the basic fireground strategy while prioritizing crew safety.

Defensive Exterior Attack: Key Points

Drop a "252" (1-5-inch feed line and 2-2 ½ inch handlines) and proceed to the nearest hydrant.
Position hand lines to adequately cover exposures.
Charge the pump panel side line with booster tank water while the hook-up member connects to the hydrant.
Charge the second 2 ½-inch line after hydrant water is established.
Place the pump panel side line at the most advantageous position.
The 5-inch line can be used to supply either a pumper or an aerial (Chief's decision).

Advantages of 2-2 ½ Inch Lines vs. 1-1 ¾ Inch Lines

2 ½ inch lines offer significantly higher flow rates (250-325 gpm) compared to 1 ¾-inch lines (150-185 gpm).
Although 1 ¾-inch lines are more versatile, the decreased flow rate can hinder firefighting effectiveness.
The "252" configuration provides a substantial advantage in controlling the fire and protecting exposures due to its higher water capacity.
The only delay in deploying the "252" compared to a 1 ¾-inch line is travel time to the hydrant.
The significant increase in water volume and a continuous water source outweighs the slight delay.

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Description

This quiz covers essential firefighting tactics including the LUNAR acronym and methods for offensive and defensive interior and exterior attacks. Test your knowledge on initial apparatus placement, hose line usage, and hydrant connections. Ready to see how well you understand these critical firefighting strategies?