400-03/Attachment High-Rise Operating Manual

Questions and Answers

What is the primary reason for positioning fire apparatus away from the risk of falling glass at high-rise buildings?

To reduce the risk of glass impacting personnel (correct)

To improve visibility for the aerial ladders

To save water supply resources

To comply with city regulations

Why is it crucial for Engine and Rescue units to combine forces at a high-rise incident?

To ensure rapid response to fire alarms

To reduce the number of required alarms

To create a larger firefighting team with diverse skills (correct)

To fulfill administrative requirements

What approach is recommended for addressing safety at high-rise fire incidents?

Only designated officers handle personnel accountability

Create a single unified command to lead the operation (correct)

Deploy only local resources to minimize confusion

Individual departments manage their own resources separately

What is the rationale behind the requirement for full protective clothing near the fire building?

To protect against falling debris Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an initial function that should be prioritized during a high-rise incident?

Conducting a full personnel debriefing Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of not having adequate initial response units at a high-rise fire?

Delay in rescue and fire attack operations Signup and view all the answers

What responsibility do all officers have during a high-rise incident?

To monitor personnel accountability and welfare Signup and view all the answers

Why is it recommended to keep apparatus not committed to critical operations outside of the hazard zone?

To allow for timely movement of resources when needed Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern when stairwell doors are left open during a fire situation?

They allow smoke and heat to be drawn into the stairwells. Signup and view all the answers

Which hose diameter is recommended for compartmentalized room fires in a high-rise?

1¾” hose for uncomplicated room fires. Signup and view all the answers

When should firefighters consider attaching to the standpipe one floor below the fire?

When conditions on the fire floor prevent safe access. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical action if the hose line does not reach the fire?

Shut the line down and add another section at the gated wye. Signup and view all the answers

Which fire stream approach is preferred to avoid scalding steam in confined spaces?

A fog pattern directed at the ceiling. Signup and view all the answers

What pressure could potentially harm the efficacy of fire streams in high-rise buildings?

High pressure due to improperly set pressure reducing valves. Signup and view all the answers

What is a transitional attack in firefighting strategy?

An initial knockdown of the fire using aerial streams. Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters consider in older buildings lacking standpipes?

Utilizing aerial apparatus as an elevated standpipe. Signup and view all the answers

What is pivotal in determining the outcome of a high-rise fire incident?

The initial actions of the first fire attack team. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of venting a fire in an open floor plan high-rise, which of the following presents a challenge?

The layout reducing water stream effectiveness. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary benefit of pressurizing stairwells during a fire incident?

It prevents smoke from spreading to adjacent floors. Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario can the fire attack stairwell also be used for ventilation?

When it is coordinated with the fire attack officer. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a requirement for effective stairwell pressurization?

A clear opening at the top of the stairwell. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major drawback of horizontal cross-ventilation in high-rise buildings?

It can lead to unpredictable fire intensity due to wind. Signup and view all the answers

What precaution should be taken before breaking windows for ventilation?

Notifying personnel at street level about potential fallout. Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended method for effective cross ventilation on a contaminated floor?

Directing pressurized air to the floor from the stairwell. Signup and view all the answers

What should crews be aware of when removing glass during horizontal ventilation?

Pressure changes could occur unexpectedly. Signup and view all the answers

What type of windows should high-rises ideally feature for effective ventilation?

Lexan windows with designated breakout areas. Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum effective height for cross-ventilation operations in high-rise buildings?

25 floors. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a safe practice when breaking windows for ventilation?

Using radio communication to inform of the exact floor and side. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the Incident Commander at a high-rise incident?

To establish tracking for personnel accountability Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not one of the main strategies for occupant removal or safeguarding in a high-rise fire?

Immediate Fire Control Signup and view all the answers

What should be documented for personnel tracking in high-rise incidents?

Unit identification and times for arrival and departure Signup and view all the answers

What is the optimal approach when conducting a primary search at a high-rise fire?

Conduct the search in a coordinated offensive manner Signup and view all the answers

What factor may justify the decision to shelter occupants in place during a high-rise fire?

Relatively good air conditions in occupants' rooms Signup and view all the answers

Which personnel are primarily responsible for tracking where companies are working in a high-rise incident?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

During a high-rise incident, what is a critical action that firefighters must take when encountering doors left open?

Search and close them to prevent fire spread Signup and view all the answers

What is the best tactical option proven effective in most high-rise fire situations?

An aggressive and coordinated offensive attack Signup and view all the answers

Why is accountability at high-rise incidents particularly challenging?

The high relief rate and numerous resources necessitate multiple tracking locations Signup and view all the answers

In which situation might the best action be to protect the stairwells instead of immediately evacuating all occupants?

When the fire is large and uncontrollable Signup and view all the answers

Which area should be searched first during a fire response?

The immediate fire area and floor Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the Stairwell Search Group (SSG)?

To ensure that no occupants are trapped in stairwells Signup and view all the answers

What should be marked on doors of rooms that have been searched?

A diagonal line along with the company designation Signup and view all the answers

How should elevator lobby areas be treated during a fire response?

They need to be searched for potential victims Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the pressurized stairwells in high-rise buildings?

To maintain high pressure and keep smoke out during evacuation Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if occupants are found in a safe refuge area during a search?

Reassure them and instruct them to stay put Signup and view all the answers

What is essential to maintain pressurization in stairwells during an evacuation?

Keeping stairwell doors closed Signup and view all the answers

Which method is considered the fastest way to protect floors above a fire in a high-rise?

Stopping the forward progress of the fire on the fire floor Signup and view all the answers

What is a priority for documentation during search operations?

Log every room searched to avoid duplication of effort Signup and view all the answers

What may be a consequence of uncontrolled evacuation in a pressurized stairwell?

Loss of pressure and potential smoke entry Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action for firefighters regarding their point of entry during a fire operation?

Maintain orientation to their point of entry and stay on the hose line. Signup and view all the answers

What minimum pressure should be maintained when supplying a sprinkler system?

150 psi PDP Signup and view all the answers

During a fire attack, how should firefighters position their streams for maximum effectiveness?

Switch between straight and smoothbore streams to enhance reach. Signup and view all the answers

What approach can firefighters take to prevent fire from curling around the core during an attack?

Use a flanking type attack with two hose lines. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect must the Incident Commander consider when coordinating ventilation activities?

Temperature differences and the correlation with stack effect. Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested for maximizing the effectiveness of a stairwell used for ventilation when it has natural airflow?

Open doors at both the bottom and roof level to create air currents. Signup and view all the answers

Which pressure should a driver operator not exceed when supplying any system?

200 psi Signup and view all the answers

What will facilitate determining where to direct overhaul efforts in a high-rise building?

A comprehensive preplan. Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial requirement for stairwells used for ventilation purposes during an incident?

They must have a suitable opening at the top secured in the open position. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum size of hose recommended for effective fire attack operations?

2½” hose Signup and view all the answers

What distinct roles do the Officer and crew assume while waiting in the stairwell on the fire floor?

They act as the Rapid Intervention Company/Crew. Signup and view all the answers

In what situation should spare SCBA cylinders be left in the lobby instead of being delivered to two floors below the fire?

If elevators are not available. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the Site Access Control Leader?

To maintain accountability of personnel and units entering the lobby. Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken regarding elevators during lobby control operations?

All elevators should be returned to the ground floor and verified for occupants. Signup and view all the answers

Which guideline should be considered for the placement of aerial apparatus?

Consider placement on side 'Charlie' if an aerial is already on side 'Alpha'. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Staging Area in a high-rise incident?

To provide a resource location within the building for operational support Signup and view all the answers

What equipment should be taken to staging via the elevator?

All of the aforementioned equipment. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Officer and crew do if the fire floor stairwell door is unsafe to pass?

Use the evacuation stairwell to access the floor above. Signup and view all the answers

Where should the Base be located during a high-rise incident?

At ground level, away from the incident for safety Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Lobby Control Unit serve during a high-rise incident?

To provide access control and accountability inside the building Signup and view all the answers

What should be monitored by the officer during movement for equipment staging?

Unit identification and time of ascent. Signup and view all the answers

What is a distinguishing feature of staffing in high-rise fire incidents?

Two units must combine to create a company for efficiency Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to maintain a safety zone from falling debris around the building during operations?

To ensure the safety of all personnel and equipment. Signup and view all the answers

Which specialized position operates the vital systems in a high-rise building during an incident?

Systems Control Unit Leader Signup and view all the answers

What specific action should be taken regarding HVAC systems during lobby control?

Check and gain control of HVAC systems. Signup and view all the answers

What is required for a sufficient staffing model when operating a hose-line in a high-rise fire?

Two companies per hose-line are required Signup and view all the answers

Which role has modified responsibilities in high-rise incident management?

Base Manager Signup and view all the answers

How far below the emergency should the Staging Area generally be located in high-rise incidents?

Two floors below, where the atmosphere remains tenable Signup and view all the answers

What happens when the incident escalates at a high-rise fire?

A separate Systems Control Unit may be established for additional support Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the Staging Area Manager during a mutual aid incident?

Maintaining a record of resources for personnel accountability Signup and view all the answers

Where is the Staging Area typically established during fire operations?

Two floors below the lowest floor involved in fire, if tenable Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum personnel requirement for a Rapid Intervention Company (RIC)?

Three personnel from an entire engine company Signup and view all the answers

Which function is NOT the responsibility of the Staging Area Manager?

Developing the incident command structure Signup and view all the answers

What must occur before assigning a Rapid Intervention Company at an incident?

An evaluation of risk levels to personnel Signup and view all the answers

Which equipment is essential for personnel in a Rapid Intervention Company (RIC)?

Portable radios, SCBA, and tools like a RIC bag Signup and view all the answers

To whom does the Staging Area Manager report during an incident?

The Incident Commander or Operations Section Chief Signup and view all the answers

What records should the Staging Area Manager keep regarding equipment orders?

Records of what equipment was ordered, the order time, and delivery time Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the Officer and crew when they ascend the evacuation stairwell?

To begin primary search for victims Signup and view all the answers

Which responsibility is NOT explicitly mentioned for the First Arriving Command Officer?

Conduct the primary search for victims Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended area for staging personnel and equipment during a high-rise incident?

Two floors below the fire Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical action before the Officer and crew begin ventilation at the fire scene?

Ensure that the Fire Attack Team has a charged line Signup and view all the answers

Which role is responsible for implementing the strategy during a high-rise incident?

Operations Section Chief Signup and view all the answers

What factor must the Incident Commander consider when assigning roles to additional Command Officers?

Priorities of operational assignments Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to have a Medical/Rehab Unit on the staging floor during a high-rise incident?

For the treatment and rehabilitation of fire-rescue personnel Signup and view all the answers

What critical safety consideration must be observed when ascending via the attack stairwell?

Avoid ascending above the fire floor Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the ECF in relation to the Officer during a high-rise incident?

To deliver the Officer and crew to two floors below the fire Signup and view all the answers

What must be done before any assigned units begin searches from two floors above the fire?

Ensure the Fire Attack Team is in position Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of adding an additional blower in a pressurized stairwell above the 25th floor?

To supply additional pressurized air for cross ventilation Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters do if they determine that the HVAC system does not have smoke control capabilities?

Shut it down completely Signup and view all the answers

In which scenario is removing windows on the leeward side recommended during horizontal ventilation?

In accordance with basic horizontal ventilation guidelines Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical factor in the success of salvage operations in high-rise buildings?

Access to and removal of the owner’s contents Signup and view all the answers

What does the High Rise module emphasize about managing incidents in multi-story buildings?

The challenges posed by size, complexity, and access Signup and view all the answers

How should firefighters respond if they find that automatic smoke control panels are not functioning during a fire?

Switch the system to smoke control manually Signup and view all the answers

What defines a central HVAC system's impact during a fire in high-rise situations?

It potentially spreads smoke and gases throughout the building Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in initial response organization at a high-rise fire incident?

Establishing command and general staff responsibilities Signup and view all the answers

Why is air monitoring essential during salvage operations in high-rise buildings?

To assess contamination from smoke and gases Signup and view all the answers

What typically happens when an HVAC system designed solely for occupant comfort is active during a fire?

It causes increased risks by distributing smoke and toxins Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the Officer upon arrival at a high-rise fire incident?

To give a brief size up of the exterior Signup and view all the answers

During a high-rise firefighting operation, when is it safe to use elevators?

Only when cleared by the Officer in charge after determining overall safety Signup and view all the answers

What should the ECF do when ascending in the elevator?

Stop periodically to check hoist way and floor conditions Signup and view all the answers

What is the preferred location for performing a standpipe hook-up during a high-rise fire?

On the floor below the fire floor when conditions allow Signup and view all the answers

In the context of water supply, who is responsible for establishing a secure water supply to the FDC?

The Driver and crew in coordination with the Officer Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked to determine if elevators are safe to use for ascending above the seventh floor?

The elevator hoist way for smoke conditions Signup and view all the answers

What action must be taken by the crew upon arriving at the fire floor?

Determine conditions for future staging and check floor layout Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of the Driver of the first Engine regarding elevator operations?

To operate and remain with the elevator as the Elevator Control Firefighter Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if additional resources are needed during a high-rise incident?

Establish an incident base as soon as possible Signup and view all the answers

How should the incident command communicate the designated attack and evacuation stairwells?

Communicate the stairwell designations to dispatch for announcement to arriving companies Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

High-Rise Firefighting Challenges and Strategies

Access to high-rise buildings is complex due to risks of falling glass and the nature of building setbacks, often limiting approach to one side.
Aerial ladders may not reach all areas, necessitating careful engine placement away from hazards but still enabling quick access for firefighters.
Personnel must wear full protective gear whenever outside the apparatus and near the fire structure to mitigate falling debris risks.

Fire Department Response

First arriving units play a crucial role in the success of high-rise operations; Engine and Rescue units should operate as a single team for efficiency.
Initial alarm responses typically insufficient; additional resources (e.g., Second Alarm) are often necessary.
Clear prioritization of tasks is essential for an effective operational outcome.

Firefighter Accountability and Safety

Challenges in maintaining personnel accountability due to large resources; accountability must occur at multiple locations.
Command Post can't track every individual; divisions must monitor their personnel thoroughly.
Specific roles are designated for tracking personnel, including Incident Commander and Division Supervisors.

Rescue Operations

Rescue of occupants is the primary objective; immediate threats should be prioritized, typically limiting evacuations to those endangered on the fire floor.
Three main strategies for occupant removal are evacuation, shelter in place, and establishing a safe refuge area.
An organized evacuation plan often faces obstacles, as occupants may become trapped or fail to follow procedures.

Evacuation and Shelter Strategies

Direct guidance to evacuation stairwells is necessary; doors should be secured to limit fire spread.
Shelter in place may be viable under certain conditions (e.g., intact air quality in rooms, effective compartmentalization).
Safe refuge areas should be established at least four floors below the fire and monitored for safety.

Search and Rescue Techniques

Primary search focus includes immediate fire areas, the floor above the affected area, and stairwells; elevator lobbies are high-risk zones.
Documentation of search operations helps prevent duplication; marking systems for searched rooms are critical.
Stairwell Search Groups (SSG) ensure the safety of stairwell occupants and facilitate evacuation efforts.

Exposure Protection and Pressurization

Quickly controlling fire content prevents its spread to adjacent rooms and floors.
Pressurized stairwells enhance evacuation by keeping smoke out; closed stairwell doors are vital for maintaining pressure.
Open doors can allow smoke to spread, increasing risks for occupants and firefighters.

Equipment and Hose Management

Initial fire attack effectiveness is critical; proper equipment and hose selection based on fire size are vital.
2½” hoses are preferred for larger fires, while 1¾” hoses can be effective for single-room fires.
Standpipe connections should be made strategically, ideally below the fire location, to enhance firefighting efficacy.

Aerial and Transitional Attack

Aerial master streams can control fires from above, allowing interior crews to prepare for ground attack.
Careful coordination is necessary to avoid jeopardizing crews or occupants during elevated fire attacks.

Overhaul and Ventilation

Overhauling requires labor-intensive checks above the fire level to prevent hidden extensions.
Effective ventilation strategies include considerations of temperature differentials and the stack effect.
Stairwells must be monitored for airflow and contaminants during ventilation tasks, and should be augmented by mechanical means.

Special Considerations for High-Rise Fires

Horizontal cross-ventilation is generally not recommended due to unpredictable wind and fire intensification risks; extreme caution is advised if necessary.
Coordination between fire attack and ventilation operations is essential to safeguard personnel and occupants during emergencies.

Security and Safety Procedures

Removal of windows requires safety precautions such as using safety lines and having a guard posted.
High-rises must have designated Lexan breakout windows, located near corners, made of tempered glass that shatters into small “pebbles.”
Prior to breaking windows, announce the floor and side of the building over radio; notify personnel at street level to clear the fallout area.

Ventilation Techniques

Cross ventilation on contaminated floors can utilize blowers and stairwell pressurization to direct airflow.
Open or break windows on the leeward side for ventilation; hose lines must be in place for fire protection.
Effective cross-ventilation operations extend up to 25 floors; additional blowers may be needed for floors above this height due to leakage.
Horizontal ventilation requires consideration of wind direction and the number of windows to be broken.

HVAC System Management

Identify whether the HVAC system is local or central; central systems risk smoke and gas spread.
Assess HVAC operation in fire conditions; check for smoke control capability and manually switch to smoke control if automated systems fail.
Non-smoke control HVAC systems should be shut down; verify operations of smoke control fans in stairwells.

Salvage Operations

Salvage efforts in high-rise incidents focus on water runoff from firefighting and smoke/gas removal for re-occupancy.
Air monitoring is critical during the salvage operations.

Command Structure

High-rise incidents require an all-hazard command structure for effective response management.
Challenges include large-size structures, limited access, and complex interior designs requiring preplanning and technical skills.

Incident Command System (ICS) Development

ICS may expand from initial response organization to multi-group or multi-branch organization depending on incident size and scope.
Initial Command responsibilities include managing response resources and transferring command as necessary.

Guiding Modifications for High-Rise Incidents

Staging areas must be located at least two floors below the emergency, adapting to the building’s vertical challenges.
Base operations expand to support large numbers of personnel and equipment, positioned away from the incident building for safety.

ICS Positions in High-Rise Incidents

Positions may include Lobby Control and Systems Control Unit Leaders, responsible for access control and coordination of building systems.
Lobby Control Unit handles accountability and routing of personnel within the building.

Firefighting Strategy and Equipment

Firefighting units must combine personnel to ensure sufficient staffing, generally using engines and rescue units.
Equipment for high-rise operations includes hose packs, forcible entry tools, hand lights, and thermal imaging cameras.
Officers must assess fire conditions and communicate the need for additional resources based on the incident’s development.

Fire Attack Procedures

Position apparatus on side “Alpha” while considering aerial access, and avoid obstructing Fire Department Connections (FDC).
Officers are responsible for determining fire conditions and the need for further resources; hose lines should be continuously operated by rotating companies.

Water Supply and Lobby Control

Establish secure water supply to fire systems; deliver spare equipment for firefighting to designated staging areas.
Lobby control involves tracking personnel entering and exiting, ensuring communication of access points and operational status.

Search Operations and Designated Responsibilities

Officers must identify stairwells accessing the roof and coordinate the search for victims.
Ventilation must be approved by the Incident Commander before being implemented in stairwells.
Continuous updates must be provided to command regarding conditions and progress.

Command Officer Responsibilities

First arriving command officers should establish a visible command post, assess fire progression, and allocate additional resources as needed.
Priorities include establishing divisions for fire floor operations, lobby control, and safety assessments during emergency response.### Command Structure
Additional Command Officers may fill positions such as PIO, Liaison, General Staff, Operations Section Chief, Planning Section Chief, Logistics Section Chief, and Finance/Admin Section Chief as necessary.
Support positions include Base Manager, Staging Area Manager, Medical Unit Leader/Rehab, Systems Control Unit Leader, Ground Support Unit Leader, and Command Aides.

High Rise Incident Management

High rise incidents necessitate an expanded Incident Command System (ICS) organizational structure, including Branches, Divisions, and Groups.
The Incident Commander must address the logistical challenges of high rise fires and effectively deploy resources.

Operations Section Chief Role

The Operations Section Chief implements strategies specific to high rise incidents and is typically stationed two floors below the active fire.

Staging Area Purpose

Staging serves to pool and quickly deploy personnel and equipment near the incident while managing the flow to upper building levels.
It is generally located two floors below the lowest fire-involved floor and reports to the Incident Commander or Operations Section Chief.

Staging Area Manager Responsibilities

Maintains an accurate record of resources for personnel accountability during mutual aid incidents.
Tracks all crews reporting to and returning from the Staging area, ensuring the appropriate transfer of Unit Identification Passes (UIPs).
Develops an inventory of equipment and coordinates orders through the Logistics/Base, documenting order times and deliveries.
Requests additional personnel through the Incident Commander or Operations Section Chief and equipment via the Logistics Section Chief.

Rapid Intervention Company (RIC)

The Incident Commander/Operations Chief assesses risks to personnel and assigns a Rapid Intervention Company, typically comprising a minimum of three personnel.
RIC is stationed at Staging, equipped with the necessary tools, clothing, and communication devices to assist in emergencies.
The RIC monitors tactical channels to maintain situational awareness and reports to the Incident Commander or Operations Section Chief when established.
Increased risks from working above the fire floor lead to a higher personnel commitment within the RIC during operations.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the safety protocols and challenges related to accessing high-rise buildings for emergency responses. It covers potential hazards like falling glass and the positioning of fire apparatus to ensure efficient operations. Participants will learn about strategies to mitigate risks during high-rise fire incidents.