Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is a common characteristic of high-rise buildings under fire conditions that makes complete emergency evacuation impractical?
What is a common characteristic of high-rise buildings under fire conditions that makes complete emergency evacuation impractical?
- Complete emergency evacuation is not practical, and the fire must be fought internally. (correct)
- The fire spreads too quickly for occupants to evacuate.
- Occupants are trained to shelter in place and wait for rescue.
- Stairwells are often compromised by smoke and heat, making them impassable.
In core construction, shear walls achieve lateral stiffness significantly in excess of that of the outer frame, allowing the core to primarily resist what?
In core construction, shear walls achieve lateral stiffness significantly in excess of that of the outer frame, allowing the core to primarily resist what?
- Vertical loads from the weight of the building materials
- Lateral forces arising from wind and earthquakes (correct)
- Heat buildup during a fire, preventing structural collapse
- The spread of fire through the building's internal structure
What is the primary task of the 2nd arriving Ladder Company regarding the Fire Attack Stairwell?
What is the primary task of the 2nd arriving Ladder Company regarding the Fire Attack Stairwell?
- To establish a water supply and begin fire suppression.
- To deploy a smoke curtain to limit contamination of the stairwell. (correct)
- To ensure the stairwell remains clear for evacuating occupants.
- To assess the structural integrity of the stairwell.
What is the initial function of Lobby Control, overseen by the Evacuation Chief, during a high-rise incident?
What is the initial function of Lobby Control, overseen by the Evacuation Chief, during a high-rise incident?
Where is the Upper Command Post typically established in a high-rise fire scenario?
Where is the Upper Command Post typically established in a high-rise fire scenario?
What is the primary concern regarding a wind-driven fire in a structure?
What is the primary concern regarding a wind-driven fire in a structure?
In modern high-rise construction, what is a key difference between core construction and older construction methods regarding fire vulnerability?
In modern high-rise construction, what is a key difference between core construction and older construction methods regarding fire vulnerability?
What is the 'neutral pressure plane' (NPP) in the context of stack effect in high-rise buildings?
What is the 'neutral pressure plane' (NPP) in the context of stack effect in high-rise buildings?
During a negative stack effect, where is smoke most likely to settle in a high-rise building?
During a negative stack effect, where is smoke most likely to settle in a high-rise building?
In the event of a blowtorch effect, which action will likely intensify the fire?
In the event of a blowtorch effect, which action will likely intensify the fire?
What is the primary reason that heat buildup is a significant concern in high-rise fires?
What is the primary reason that heat buildup is a significant concern in high-rise fires?
According to the SOP, what action should first arriving units take upon arrival at a high-rise alarm?
According to the SOP, what action should first arriving units take upon arrival at a high-rise alarm?
When ordered by the Incident Commander, what action should the 1st and 2nd arriving Engine Company Chauffeurs take?
When ordered by the Incident Commander, what action should the 1st and 2nd arriving Engine Company Chauffeurs take?
What tasks should the initial Engine and Ladder Companies perform upon arrival one floor below the reported fire floor?
What tasks should the initial Engine and Ladder Companies perform upon arrival one floor below the reported fire floor?
What is a key duty of the Rescue and Tower Companies upon confirmation of a high-rise fire?
What is a key duty of the Rescue and Tower Companies upon confirmation of a high-rise fire?
What actions should the Safety Chief take regarding the Fire Attack Stairwell?
What actions should the Safety Chief take regarding the Fire Attack Stairwell?
What is the Evacuation Chief's responsibility regarding elevators in a high-rise fire?
What is the Evacuation Chief's responsibility regarding elevators in a high-rise fire?
Unless otherwise ordered by Command, what doors should Lobby Control Companies make sure are closed?
Unless otherwise ordered by Command, what doors should Lobby Control Companies make sure are closed?
On multiple alarms and when reporting for assignment, what does the SOP note that all companies shall bring?
On multiple alarms and when reporting for assignment, what does the SOP note that all companies shall bring?
What is the recommended minimum clear perimeter that should be established around a high-rise building during a major incident?
What is the recommended minimum clear perimeter that should be established around a high-rise building during a major incident?
For a confirmed high-rise incident, where should the Incident Commander locate the building engineer, based on the SOP?
For a confirmed high-rise incident, where should the Incident Commander locate the building engineer, based on the SOP?
According to the SOP, what is the minimum number of personnel required to stretch and operate an attack line?
According to the SOP, what is the minimum number of personnel required to stretch and operate an attack line?
In vacant buildings undergoing demolition, what state of readiness should existing standpipes be maintained?
In vacant buildings undergoing demolition, what state of readiness should existing standpipes be maintained?
For what reason is pre-fire planning and site familiarization emphasized for buildings under construction or demolition?
For what reason is pre-fire planning and site familiarization emphasized for buildings under construction or demolition?
What unique structural feature found in older Type III taxpayer buildings presents a significant fire hazard?
What unique structural feature found in older Type III taxpayer buildings presents a significant fire hazard?
Compared to standard wood joists, how does fire typically affect trusses in taxpayer buildings?
Compared to standard wood joists, how does fire typically affect trusses in taxpayer buildings?
What is the primary hazard associated with rubber membrane roofs on taxpayer buildings?
What is the primary hazard associated with rubber membrane roofs on taxpayer buildings?
In taxpayer buildings, what action should members take when pulling suspended ceilings and why?
In taxpayer buildings, what action should members take when pulling suspended ceilings and why?
What is a significant risk associated with heavy terrazzo or concrete floors placed over wood joists in taxpayer buildings?
What is a significant risk associated with heavy terrazzo or concrete floors placed over wood joists in taxpayer buildings?
During fire operations in a taxpayer building, what is a key concern regarding parapet walls?
During fire operations in a taxpayer building, what is a key concern regarding parapet walls?
What conditions must be satisfied before considering vertical ventilation and flank attack on a Taxpayer Fire?
What conditions must be satisfied before considering vertical ventilation and flank attack on a Taxpayer Fire?
What is the first arriving Ladder Company's responsibility regarding the roof on the taxpayer fire?
What is the first arriving Ladder Company's responsibility regarding the roof on the taxpayer fire?
According to the guidelines for one-story taxpayer fires, when is a defensive approach most suitable?
According to the guidelines for one-story taxpayer fires, when is a defensive approach most suitable?
If a one-story taxpayer fire has advanced extensively upon arrival, what size attack lines should be stretched initially?
If a one-story taxpayer fire has advanced extensively upon arrival, what size attack lines should be stretched initially?
What is the 3rd arriving Engine Company primary responsibility for fire in the first floor on a two-story taxpayer building?
What is the 3rd arriving Engine Company primary responsibility for fire in the first floor on a two-story taxpayer building?
What task shall be completed before any operation on any Bowstring Truss roofs?
What task shall be completed before any operation on any Bowstring Truss roofs?
At a minimum at a Taxpayer fire, what meter will be used to check for Carbon Monoxide?
At a minimum at a Taxpayer fire, what meter will be used to check for Carbon Monoxide?
What action should an initial arriving Engine Company due to a floor or cellar fire?
What action should an initial arriving Engine Company due to a floor or cellar fire?
What action should initial arriving officer take due to what danger?
What action should initial arriving officer take due to what danger?
To help prevent the spread of the fire, doors are controlled to ensure controlling of what?
To help prevent the spread of the fire, doors are controlled to ensure controlling of what?
A motor vehicle accident is defined of what code?
A motor vehicle accident is defined of what code?
Where and when will the BFD vehicle involved report after assigned to Code A?
Where and when will the BFD vehicle involved report after assigned to Code A?
Per Fire Emergency, what actions are not allowed that could cause a drug and alcohol test?
Per Fire Emergency, what actions are not allowed that could cause a drug and alcohol test?
What structural component in core construction high-rises primarily counteracts lateral forces from wind and earthquakes?
What structural component in core construction high-rises primarily counteracts lateral forces from wind and earthquakes?
In the context of high-rise firefighting, what is the potential risk associated with the Fire Attack Stairwell?
In the context of high-rise firefighting, what is the potential risk associated with the Fire Attack Stairwell?
What is the purpose of the Fire Command Center (FCC) in a high-rise building?
What is the purpose of the Fire Command Center (FCC) in a high-rise building?
During firefighting operations in areas with suspended ceilings, why should firefighters replace ceiling tiles after inspection?
During firefighting operations in areas with suspended ceilings, why should firefighters replace ceiling tiles after inspection?
What is the primary risk associated with a blowtorch effect during a structure fire?
What is the primary risk associated with a blowtorch effect during a structure fire?
What action should the 1st arriving Engine Company Chauffeur take upon arrival at a high-rise alarm, according to the SOP?
What action should the 1st arriving Engine Company Chauffeur take upon arrival at a high-rise alarm, according to the SOP?
According to the SOP, what is the 3rd arriving Engine Company's primary responsibility when responding to a fire in a high-rise building?
According to the SOP, what is the 3rd arriving Engine Company's primary responsibility when responding to a fire in a high-rise building?
What action should initial arriving Ladder Companies perform upon arrival one floor below the reported fire floor, according to the guidelines?
What action should initial arriving Ladder Companies perform upon arrival one floor below the reported fire floor, according to the guidelines?
What is the Safety Chief's responsibility regarding the Fire Attack Stairwell
What is the Safety Chief's responsibility regarding the Fire Attack Stairwell
What action should Lobby Control Companies take regarding elevators in a high-rise fire?
What action should Lobby Control Companies take regarding elevators in a high-rise fire?
What factor necessitates additional pre-fire planning and site familiarization for buildings under construction or demolition, according to the SOP?
What factor necessitates additional pre-fire planning and site familiarization for buildings under construction or demolition, according to the SOP?
In older Type III taxpayer buildings, what often contributes to rapid fire spread?
In older Type III taxpayer buildings, what often contributes to rapid fire spread?
What is a significant concern regarding heavy terrazzo or concrete floors placed over wood joists in taxpayer buildings during a fire?
What is a significant concern regarding heavy terrazzo or concrete floors placed over wood joists in taxpayer buildings during a fire?
How is a 'Taxpayer' building defined?
How is a 'Taxpayer' building defined?
What is the typical roof construction in a 'Taxpayer' building?
What is the typical roof construction in a 'Taxpayer' building?
In a taxpayer building, what hazard do multiple layers of tin, sheetrock, or acoustic tiles affixed on supports that were not intended to carry such weight pose to firefighters?
In a taxpayer building, what hazard do multiple layers of tin, sheetrock, or acoustic tiles affixed on supports that were not intended to carry such weight pose to firefighters?
During firefighting operations in a taxpayer building, what is the effect of expansion cause by the steel 'I' beams absorbing heat from the fire?
During firefighting operations in a taxpayer building, what is the effect of expansion cause by the steel 'I' beams absorbing heat from the fire?
What is the recommendation for a floor to check for fire extension during a fire in the first floor on a two-story taxpayer building?
What is the recommendation for a floor to check for fire extension during a fire in the first floor on a two-story taxpayer building?
At a taxpayer fire, if backdraft conditions are observed before an inside attack is made, what actions should be considered?
At a taxpayer fire, if backdraft conditions are observed before an inside attack is made, what actions should be considered?
For firefighting operations in basements/cellars, what does door control refer to?
For firefighting operations in basements/cellars, what does door control refer to?
In the event of a basement fire in a taxpayer building, what is the recommendation regarding the use of Thermal Imaging Cameras?
In the event of a basement fire in a taxpayer building, what is the recommendation regarding the use of Thermal Imaging Cameras?
At a Motor Vehicle Accident, what actions are not allowed that could cause a drug and alcohol test, according to the provided SOP?
At a Motor Vehicle Accident, what actions are not allowed that could cause a drug and alcohol test, according to the provided SOP?
According to the provided SOP, what is the definition of a Code A motor vehicle accident?
According to the provided SOP, what is the definition of a Code A motor vehicle accident?
What is the most important factor in effective vertical ventilation at a "Taxpayer operation"?
What is the most important factor in effective vertical ventilation at a "Taxpayer operation"?
When should consideration be given to stationing a member at the cellar door during a basement fire?
When should consideration be given to stationing a member at the cellar door during a basement fire?
At a structure fire incident, after a Mayday has occurred and it leads to an RIT deployment, what is The RIT Ladder Company's focus?
At a structure fire incident, after a Mayday has occurred and it leads to an RIT deployment, what is The RIT Ladder Company's focus?
If a Mayday is declared, where a report is initiated at and sent by?
If a Mayday is declared, where a report is initiated at and sent by?
In the context of high-rise buildings, how are divisions different from sectors?
In the context of high-rise buildings, how are divisions different from sectors?
How should Command operate before water is on the fire?
How should Command operate before water is on the fire?
While approaching a scene, if Command is transferring, how do Fire Fighters stay accountable before reaching where they are to be?
While approaching a scene, if Command is transferring, how do Fire Fighters stay accountable before reaching where they are to be?
When transitioning from an offensive to a defensive strategy, what must the incident commander (IC) communicate?
When transitioning from an offensive to a defensive strategy, what must the incident commander (IC) communicate?
During interior firefighting, using a smooth bore nozzle, what is maintained with the bale fully opened?
During interior firefighting, using a smooth bore nozzle, what is maintained with the bale fully opened?
Apart from assisting in locating building staff, what is Lobby Control's immediate responsibility concerning elevators during a high-rise fire event?
Apart from assisting in locating building staff, what is Lobby Control's immediate responsibility concerning elevators during a high-rise fire event?
During firefighting operations in a high-rise building, what is the main purpose of establishing an Upper Command Post two floors below the fire floor?
During firefighting operations in a high-rise building, what is the main purpose of establishing an Upper Command Post two floors below the fire floor?
During a high-rise fire, where should firefighters remove ceiling tiles to check for fire extension when entering a corridor from the stairwell, if fire is predicted in the plenum area?
During a high-rise fire, where should firefighters remove ceiling tiles to check for fire extension when entering a corridor from the stairwell, if fire is predicted in the plenum area?
What should the 1st and 2nd arriving Engine Company Chauffeurs do upon arrival at a high-rise alarm regarding water supply?
What should the 1st and 2nd arriving Engine Company Chauffeurs do upon arrival at a high-rise alarm regarding water supply?
Prior to line advancement, what is the initial Engine and Ladder Companies responsibility, working together, regarding the Fire Attack Stairwell?
Prior to line advancement, what is the initial Engine and Ladder Companies responsibility, working together, regarding the Fire Attack Stairwell?
What action should the Evacuation Chief take regarding elevators upon arrival at a high-rise fire?
What action should the Evacuation Chief take regarding elevators upon arrival at a high-rise fire?
Flames and smoke pulsating out of a building are indicative of what fire behavior?
Flames and smoke pulsating out of a building are indicative of what fire behavior?
During a fire in a modern high-rise building of core construction, how can the sag of floors under intense fire conditions lead to a dangerous scenario?
During a fire in a modern high-rise building of core construction, how can the sag of floors under intense fire conditions lead to a dangerous scenario?
Buildings utilizing bearing walls made of masonry have operable windows and are least likely to collapse under fire conditions, why?
Buildings utilizing bearing walls made of masonry have operable windows and are least likely to collapse under fire conditions, why?
Which of the following actions should firefighters take to mitigate risks associated with suspended ceilings during a fire in a taxpayer building?
Which of the following actions should firefighters take to mitigate risks associated with suspended ceilings during a fire in a taxpayer building?
What action can help gain access to a below grade area?
What action can help gain access to a below grade area?
In the absence of exterior entrances, what should Engine Companies be aware of when they open an exterior door or bulkhead to a basement/cellar fire?
In the absence of exterior entrances, what should Engine Companies be aware of when they open an exterior door or bulkhead to a basement/cellar fire?
If a cellar fire has been knocked down during the overhaul phase, what consideration has to be made in the ceiling?
If a cellar fire has been knocked down during the overhaul phase, what consideration has to be made in the ceiling?
When operating on ANY floor due to construction, what should members anticipate for?
When operating on ANY floor due to construction, what should members anticipate for?
During a truck fire, what should Fire Alarm dispatch after they are notified?
During a truck fire, what should Fire Alarm dispatch after they are notified?
If unable at the time to make it any further out, after calling a Mayday, what actions is a Firefighter suppose do?
If unable at the time to make it any further out, after calling a Mayday, what actions is a Firefighter suppose do?
Before a PAR is about to be conducted, what are the steps by Fire Alarm before all personnel announce, to check for all is intact?
Before a PAR is about to be conducted, what are the steps by Fire Alarm before all personnel announce, to check for all is intact?
When can't command be able to be transferred?
When can't command be able to be transferred?
In order which command would be used, what is done? (Select all that Apply)
In order which command would be used, what is done? (Select all that Apply)
Select three that does not make high-rise building?
Select three that does not make high-rise building?
Flashcards
High-Rise Building
High-Rise Building
Building of 70' or more above grade where complete emergency evacuation is impractical and fire must be fought internally.
Core Construction
Core Construction
Method of construction in tall buildings using a light outer steel frame linked to an internal concrete core.
Curtain Wall
Curtain Wall
An outer covering of a building which the outer walls are non structural.
Evacuation Stairwell(s)
Evacuation Stairwell(s)
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Fire Attack Stairwell
Fire Attack Stairwell
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Fire Attack Team
Fire Attack Team
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Fire Command Center (FCC)
Fire Command Center (FCC)
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Lobby Control
Lobby Control
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Main Command Post
Main Command Post
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Plenum Space
Plenum Space
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Stack Effect
Stack Effect
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Upper Command Post
Upper Command Post
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Wind-Driven Fire
Wind-Driven Fire
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Stack Effect
Stack Effect
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Positive Stack Effect
Positive Stack Effect
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Negative Stack Effect
Negative Stack Effect
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Auto Extension
Auto Extension
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First Alarm Response
First Alarm Response
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Lobby Control Companies
Lobby Control Companies
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Vertical Extension
Vertical Extension
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Command Post Relocation
Command Post Relocation
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The Annunciator Panel
The Annunciator Panel
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Normal Stack Effect
Normal Stack Effect
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Confirmed High-Rise Fire
Confirmed High-Rise Fire
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Duties of Engine and Ladder Companies
Duties of Engine and Ladder Companies
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Second Arriving Ladder Company Duties
Second Arriving Ladder Company Duties
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First Arriving Ladder Company Duties
First Arriving Ladder Company Duties
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Rescue Company
Rescue Company
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Safety Chief First
Safety Chief First
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Report
Report
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Rescue Company
Rescue Company
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RIT Group
RIT Group
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Main Command Post
Main Command Post
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Fire Attack
Fire Attack
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Safe distance
Safe distance
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Taxpayer Building
Taxpayer Building
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Cockloft
Cockloft
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Open Web Steel Joists
Open Web Steel Joists
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Suspended Ceilings
Suspended Ceilings
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Life Hazard
Life Hazard
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Cellar Contents and Fuel Load
Cellar Contents and Fuel Load
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Backdraft
Backdraft
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First Arriving Company
First Arriving Company
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First and Second Units Together
First and Second Units Together
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3rd arriving Engine
3rd arriving Engine
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First Arriving Engine Company
First Arriving Engine Company
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Second Arriving Engine Company
Second Arriving Engine Company
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First Arriving Ladder Company
First Arriving Ladder Company
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Second Arriving Ladder Company
Second Arriving Ladder Company
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Study Notes
High-Rise Building Standard Operating Procedures (SOP #1) Introduction
- Boston has a diverse skyline including office, residential, and hotel high-rises.
- High-rise buildings vary in design, construction, and fire protection features.
- Firefighting personnel must be familiar with each building and its life safety systems.
- High-rise fires require a foundation of Incident Command and strategic coordination.
- High-Rise Building definition: 70 feet or more above grade.
- Common fire conditions include impractical evacuation and internal firefighting.
- Core Construction: light steel frame linked to internal concrete core, allows core to resist lateral forces
- Core walls, or shear walls, provide lateral stiffness superior to the outer frame.
- Curtain Wall: A non-structural outer covering that only keeps weather out and people in.
- Made of lightweight materials, it transfers lateral wind loads to building structure.
- Evacuation Stairwell: designated stairwells for evacuating occupants during emergency. Pressurized stairwells are preferred.
- Fire Attack Stairwell: used to stretch hose lines to the fire area.
- Likely contaminated with smoke and dangerous gases.
- The 2nd arriving Ladder Company must deploy a smoke curtain if possible.
- Fire Attack Team: Initial suppression task force of 1st and 2nd due Engine and Ladder Companies. Coordinates efforts to complete tactical objectives.
- Fire Command Center (FCC): displays detection, alarm, and control system status, which can be manually controlled. Specifically designated for command and control during emergencies.
- Lobby Control: assists in locating building staff, ensures elevators are in Phase I mode, operates elevator cars. Overseen by the Evacuation Chief, assigned as needed as incident progresses.
- Main Command Post: where the Incident Commander oversees all operations. Usually in the lobby near the Fire Command Center
- Plenum Space: area between structural and dropped ceilings, or under raised floor. Facilitates air circulation for HVAC systems, at greater than atmospheric pressure.
- Stack Effect: The natural movement of air inside a building due to temperature differences and height, magnified in high-rise fires.
- In cold weather, stack effect draws smoke and fire gases into stairwells and elevator shafts on lower floors, exhausting them on upper floors.
- Warm weather causes reverse stack effect, reversing the flow.
- As building height increases, stack effect becomes more significant.
- Upper Command Post: two floors below the fire floor, under Chief Officer control. Used for supplying special equipment.
- Consideration must be given to potential electrical power failure.
- Wind-Driven Fire: rapidly spreading fire from prevailing winds entering a fire-vented structure with deadly flow of flame. Pulsating flames are indicative.
High-Rise Building Construction Features
- Older High-Rise Buildings: utilized bearing walls of masonry and reinforced concrete. Walls tapered as height increased due to weight decrease. Buildings of this type generally have operable windows and are least likely to collapse under fire conditions.
- Modern High-Rise Construction: "core construction" involving a steel skeleton with a central or side concrete core. Stairways and elevators located on exterior walls in side core construction.
- Core construction is more vulnerable to heat and collapse.
- Floors have been known to sag nearly 2 feet under intense fire conditions
- Type 1 constructions have a sprayed coating on steel supports.
- Windows may be plate or tempered glass, operable or inoperable depending on age and building.
- Modern buildings typically have inoperable, heat-resistant windows.
- Broken glass presents hazards; modern buildings may have operable window panels secured by tool-operated locks, which should be indicated in pre-fire plans.
Fire Behavior and Spread Phenomena
- Stack effect (positive and negative)
- Vertical extension
- Fire in the plenum space
- Blowtorch effect
- Heat buildup
- Stack Effect in Detail: Convection channels heat, smoke, and other combustion products upwards. Stratification also takes place, where hotter smoke moves toward the roof and cooler smoke stays lower.
- Normal stack effect: Fresh air drawn in through lower openings and discharged through the top, area where smoke settles known as the "neutral pressure plane” (NPP).
- Positive Stack Effect: cooler outside air causes smoke to cool and follow natural airflow up vertical shafts, settling on floors above the fire.
- Below the NPP, smoke will flow from tenant floors to shafts; above the NPP, it flows from shafts to tenant floors.
- Negative Stack Effect: warmer outside air causes smoke to cool and push down vertical shafts, settling on floors below the fire.
- Upper Command Post may need relocation or firefighters may need SCBA sooner. Below the NPP, smoke flows from shafts to floors; above, it flows from floors to shafts.
- Vertical Extension: common avenues for fire to extend vertically. Three common methods include:
- Auto-extension: Heat breaks windows, causing fire to spread upwards externally via heat transmission.
- Curtain Wall Extension: Spaces between floor assemblies and curtain walls allow vertical spread.
- Vertical Shaft Extension: Design features like stair and elevator shafts, electric chase ways, and chutes contribute. Poke through holes for plumbing distribution and HVAC supply/return shafts also can contribute.
- Fire in the Plenum Space: Firefighters should check plenum spaces above suspended ceilings and reinstall ceiling tiles, cognizant of potential assembly collapse.
- Blowtorch Effect: Occurs when a door is left open or a window fails, intensifying the fire. Wind combines with fire to blast fireballs across the rooms at high heat.
- Heavy smoke with little venting suggests hazardous interior conditions; this data must be relayed to IC ASAP to anticipate this effect.
- Fires in high-rise buildings generating considerable heat which cannot be dissipated easily, making rehab and rotation of crews critical.
Initial Fire Response and Subsequent Alarms
- First Alarm Response: 3 Engines, 2 Ladders, 1 Rescue, 1 Tower, District Chief, Safety Chief, Accountability Chief, Evacuation Chief, Deputy Chief, RIT Engine, Drone
- First Arriving Units: conduct size-up, report to lobby, locate Fire Command Center, and check annunciator panels and protection systems.
- First Engine and Ladder secure elevators and keys; refer to SOP #213.
- Second Alarm: ordered by the Incident Commander if smoke or fire is confirmed, based on visual indicators/device alarms/eyewitness reports.
- Fire Alarm provides Incident Commander with outside conditions.
- Confirmed Fire Response: One RIT Ladder and One RIT Chief
- Second Alarm Response: Air Supply Unit (W12), Special Unit (H2), Public Information Officer (PIO), Mobile Command Unit
- Third Alarm Response: Fire Commissioner/Chief of Department and Chief of Operations
Operations of Arriving Engine and Ladder Companies
- 1st Arriving and 2nd Arriving Engine and Ladder Companies: comprise the initial Fire Attack Team, coordinating with command posts. 1st and 2nd Engine Companies: High-Rise Bag, 200' of 2½" hose with smooth bore nozzle to establish attack line. 2nd Engine assists 1st with hose line management.
- Ensure a water supply from closest hydrant secured by the 1st and 2nd Engine Chauffeurs connected to Fire Department Connection (FDC) with 3" high-pressure hose; await IC orders whether to fill FDC.
- Refer to SOP #205 (A) for comprehensive guidelines (Engine Company Operations – Fire Department Connections and Standpipes).
- 1st and 2nd arriving Ladder Companies: forcible entry, search ropes, thermal imaging cameras, smoke curtains, elevator keys to check the Fire Attack Stairwell before line advancement in locating the fire and conducting a primary search on the fire floor.
- Upon arrival one floor below the reported fire floor, the initial Engine and Ladder Companies to: conduct reconnaissance of the floor layout to determine proximity of the reported fire unit to the stairwells; determine and report Fire Attack Stairwell and Evacuation Stairwell uses (Fire Alarm provides announcement); ensure Fire Attack Stairwell cleared for 5 floors above the fire; hose line cannot be operated from the Fire Attack Stairwell until all clear; locate one standpipe connection one floor below, determine hose amount neededIf more than 200' of hose is required, immediately notify Command.
- 3rd Arriving Engine Company: Main Command Post, High-Rise Bag, 200' of 2½" hose with smooth bore nozzle, prepare second (backup) attack line unless otherwise directed.
- Duties of the Rescue and Tower Companies at Main Command Post: forcible entry, saws, search ropes, thermal imaging cameras, awaiting orders from the Incident Commander.
- Coordinate, initiate search on floor above confirm extension, force entry if necessary.
- Assist forcible entry, ventilation, search elevators/ report car location to main
- Window removal per Incident Commander order
- RIT Group standby apparatus until confirmation, report to RIT Chief RIT packs, ropes, forcible entry tools, thermal imaging cameras
- On-scene ascend to the Upper Command Post, chief establish staging, determine designated stairwells/ monitor both fire-ground and evacuation
Safety Chief Responsibilities
- Visual check perimeter, reports to IC
- Upper Command Post to Attack Stairwell until arrival
- Ensure RIT staged one floor down.
- Standpipe capable, attack stairwell cleared 5 floors up.
- Attack Stairwell not overcrowded. Tactics are safely used
- Monitor elevated. CO2/ hazards
- Monitor fire-ground channel
Evacuation Sector
- Shall oversee all elevator’s fire personnel
- vital info and locate center,
- ensure lobby in phase one, oversee assist and supply from IC and check all changes
- Ascend to the Upper Command Post and initiate searches of the Fire Attack and Evacuation Stairwells five floors above and five floors below the fire floor as soon as possible.
- Check adjacent hallways
- Report the floor searched, conditions, removal/evacuation, assign needed more
- Notify the IC to withhold the attack.
- Direct evac stairwell/ lobby or exit/ direct to a tenable area/ notify Chief
- Search any elevator/ trap
Accountability, And Lobby Control Chiefs/ Companies Responsibilities
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The Account/ Chief reports all and set EFAS
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Oversee assist IC by establishing/ log in
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Helps lobbys companies
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Lobby companies take control, staff Elevators, FACPs
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Ensured all ELEV in Phased/ prevent flow
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Stairs wells if poss/ control type and pressured
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Determine which stairs lead to the roof
Safety Considerations For Command, Incident Commanders, And Officers
- Manpower and tools not delayed upper command zone
- Conduct the risk management assessment
- Constant wind driven
- Propped Doors not allowed, should utilize a wind curtain
- Careful when making entries
High-Rise Buildings under Construction or Demolitions, SOP #1A
- Vacant buildings and undergoing demolition requires maintained dry standpipes.
- 527 CMR 1:00 Section 16.4.3.3 plus an air pressurized system for tasks over 70 feet.
- New permanent installations must install air-pressurized alarms above 70 feet.
- System pressure cannot exceed 25 PSI using nitrogen or an air compressor with air dryer.
- Alarm activates below supervisory pressure or above 25 psi, an independent alert is sent to the fire alarm monitoring station
- Work at site shall cease alarm causes
- No work occur till fixed
Pre-Fire Planning Inspections and Site Familiarization Protocol
- Layout the Buildings/location of stairwells
- Accessible FDC
- Check superintendent and call log, up to date
- Working stand panels ,monitored properly
- Hoist elevator first due training steel deckings pour concrete
- Salamander/flammable, general housekeeping
Taxpayer Fire Initial Strategy, SOP #3: unique safety considerations and hazards for firefighters
- Many buildings are of type 2 and 3
- Often difficult to contain and spread
- Many deaths or injuries
- The SOP helps help FD members in safe situations
Taxpayer Defined
- In the building codes not often used
- 1 or 2 stories buildings type 2 and type 3
- Vary in lots 20x50
- Can shelter multiple business
Construction Features
-
Type 3 can use combustible construction
-
often found in concealed, non-reserve
-
1960 used type 2 non- combustível
-
Light steels a mall. Fire spreads easy
-
Roof styles vary
-
Common: wood plus roofing
-
Owsj can span to 60 feet collapse in minutes
-
Truss construction fire affect rapido
-
Bow string truss are old
-
Rubber memebrane
-
Inverted a additional call loft
-
Adds addtonal loads
Taxpayer Fire Hazards: Load, Ceilings, and Floors
- Load: HVAC units on roof cause failures
- Ceilings: Loft above ceilings, extend, varies wide open ,fire spreads rapidly
- Expect multiple Cielings to may the fire/
- Drop ceeligna entanglement,
- ceilings fall as one, cantilever/ can damage
- Floorz: Can vary; terrazao/ concrete extra hazrd, weakens fire; collapse is expected
- Panel under window are fire points
Other Hazards Faced: Walls and Beams
- Wall: Vary, the walls and parapet are lest
- Support are weakened, reduce the walls
- Beams: steel “I” are used, walls our of joint
- Collapse
- Cellar: Access is gained by pre planning/stairs or taps/ separate or caged
- No slab
Security and Types Of Hazards
-
Windows often boarded
-
Time
-
Fire spread
-
Tool to get in
-
Over head may reat on doors. Secure
-
Hazards for life depends on building
-
One story often are empty other than night other with many unit or ressdent
-
Consdser conllapse
Other Issues
- Back Drafts, blow fire if open
- Heat/ Weak
- Heating/ Expansion
- Impacts, from collaspe
- Ice / Snow
- Stable Walls Integrity
Column Collapse and Interior Notes
-
Concrete can intact ,Brick may break some wall
-
Cockflofft, parapet sits. Load can break walls if
-
Canopy/marques
-
30 min in tests/ column fail if floor root falls
-
Usually stock
-
Over head tilt block you
Other Hazards:
-
hazards also in sellls/ machinery
-
Fridge, Oil gas tanks, electric meters
-
Bachdrafs and smoke explosions
-
Significant in taxpayers
-
Hiddenvoid facotr
-
Vertical Vent,flaking attcaks
• 1 story operation: - as with other inscehts Initial company offeric Choose the plan will affect safety/ and an offensive
- Additional Alarms, IC needs staging
- method are tower Co,
First Squad
- Request utilities first
- Size is big or needs rit/
- Proper Placemtn can take a hour depending/
-
- Lines
- Hostile fire take 2
Second Arrival and Aerial Notes
- Ics assign for the second squad of engines to adjoined areas to pervert/
- IC the 3 advanced attack othe path
- Notes pump forfdc many with cellar
- coordinated site/Ladder attpe.pt tlocate
- Chaffer ascendes/ inspect
- 2nd sizes the rate/ tools
- Chauffer if need scale to roof scale remotes/ secerotary
Rescuing and Fire Supressing
-
Assign/ Rescue is there
-
Life better R IT gorp
-
Check fire/ affects stabillity
-
Expends common cockpit
-
The immediate ordermung extra alarms to
-
- Multiple the ic taking defensvie
-
Civialb recue rarely made
-
related roof vent
-
Must be of them
-
Store invilved maste
Ceelarsand Other Dangers
- Sellars to not atttent
- Floor collapse full
- Front Panel removal
- Sellara pipes on fire
- Proablltyo
- Chceeck co2,
Roofs. Group is to all alarms multiple with labor to supervise
-
Two 2 mor re ,
-
Oa buildong c and or the compmayiess /d and of the to th.e roc If Ruber
-
Be of linnes
How Fire spreads, and other Tips
-
View and pull techniqueds Largervertent
-
Lift them in onel
-
Check seculte
-
Gyboms easy cillpade and moist, light
-
Corurgate not fdelogher
-
Veritical vent
-
Uncodrdinate d voids
-
interior attacks
A fire treated 100. Is similar, but Life hazrds Hard/ exiti
Extra Help to Provide
- Ladders and comapnay to expedite/locate
- Fobllcde team more floor
- Beams can, cocklofts/longer requires more
If the second flood more occupied, masters oroblem Probability highers Search Ldders/ ensine
Car Crash and Accidents.
- SOP 112 covers actions for a Boston FD vchiclde on. public streets or door to
- Company officer ahll notify to by code of
- Fire will report of motor distrcit and police
- Deputy to assist Refer of 273 elevators , heighr-ruise Accidsnet hiuh, comander to, alarm visual,
Drug testing procedures
- Ditetrcit and safety recommednations
- E with collec,gtuideing agreement
a moltor a. and.
-
Appatus, fire alrram,
-
Caueae fatelity,
-
The driver taken to Hq
-
Not alow the and eat in
-
On paid leave
Incident Command SOP 2OO
- Is to standard and formalize modular and
- Defines duties with the department
- Safety, accounting for one
Three implement is all and
Incident Managment
- Where the under in and to Unife3dm command 1 more recuse Crosses to To effective at same time
Command responsibilities
- There has, the the the of as
All and of th C. 74 If as then,
-
In c,ic,so /o and
-
At all of t
-
For all at For fire to,c have Of a of at.
-
To and to and.
Final notes
-
A and O
-
P L Fa The All Fa P Su Al’s
-
Opth to and. Commutate to
All Notes on Fire
- O A U Lo F To and. A o at Thea the thandand f P for the
If to F the Lp Atand L if If toF, And theF toF and.
-
P At
-
F theof the at aof,TheO the IC Of of th.
-
ToF the to and ofA
-
Ato then and andF, TheC andP the.
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