I-B-04 High-Rise Fires 06/16/2022

Questions and Answers

Which equipment is NOT required for crews assigned to Fire Attack?

Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC)

High-rise accessory bag

Two 6’ pike poles (correct)

Grease pencils

What is the primary purpose of the Ratcheting forcible entry tool?

To provide emergency lighting

To carry equipment to the scene

To gain access in rescue operations (correct)

To assist in fire suppression

Which equipment is included in the Overhaul crew's minimum equipment list?

Medical box

Four spare SCBA cylinders

Ratcheting forcible entry tool

Trash hooks and shovels (correct)

What must later-arriving crews assigned to Staging bring besides Halligan or sledgehammer?

Two 6’ pike poles/hooks Signup and view all the answers

What additional item must crews assigned to Fire Attack coordinate to bring when working in teams?

Water extinguisher Signup and view all the answers

Which piece of equipment is not included in the minimum for crews assigned to supplement a Medical Group?

Halligan tool Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is required for Search and Rescue crews?

Two 100’ search line bags Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a required item for crews assigned to Overhaul?

Ratcheting forcible entry tool Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary communication mode used by units on scene in high-rise structures?

Duplex Signup and view all the answers

Which mode must the incident commander always remain in for effective communication?

Duplex Signup and view all the answers

What type of communication is strictly 'radio to radio' and not heard by the Fire Alarm Office?

Simplex Signup and view all the answers

What is a required backup communication means in high-rise buildings?

Telephone handsets plugged into input jacks Signup and view all the answers

What can interfere with portable radio transmissions in high-rise buildings?

Concrete and steel construction Signup and view all the answers

What may result from excess water accumulation on upper floors?

Conduction of electricity Signup and view all the answers

Where is flow to sprinklers on each floor controlled?

By valves connected to the standpipe Signup and view all the answers

What should be opened when closing a zone control valve?

The drain valve Signup and view all the answers

What could happen if external valves are closed prematurely?

Failure of fire pumps Signup and view all the answers

When should the base control valve typically be closed?

Only if zone control valves have been successful Signup and view all the answers

How should water be removed from flooded upper floors?

Use makeshift aids and communicate with the property owner Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical consideration when shutting down fire pumps?

Ensuring no flow demand on the system Signup and view all the answers

What might cause a high-pressure water hammer in the system?

Restoring the building’s fire pump too quickly Signup and view all the answers

What does a fire pump transfer switch not distinguish between?

Loss of grid power and shutting off the main disconnect Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for securing an area on the ground level during firefighting operations in high-rise fires?

To throw down debris safely from upper floors Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if carbon monoxide (CO) gas is detected in adjacent occupancies?

Obtain CO gas readings from all directions around the fire apartment Signup and view all the answers

In case of a trash chute fire, what is the first action that the crew should take upon locating the dumpster room?

Close the guillotine door, if applicable Signup and view all the answers

What typically causes fires in trash chutes?

Blockage of garbage in the chute or dumpster fire Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to check the outlets of the standpipe on each floor during firefighting operations in a construction site?

To verify that they are closed and functional Signup and view all the answers

During a high-rise fire under construction, what presents a greater collapse hazard under severe fire conditions?

Reinforced concrete supported by metal decks Signup and view all the answers

What should crews avoid doing when fire is present in the chute?

Ignoring possible extension around the areas of the chute Signup and view all the answers

What unique challenge does a high-rise building's construction phase present in firefighting scenarios?

Incomplete and often dry fire protection systems Signup and view all the answers

What could be a potential consequence of open vertical shafts in a high-rise under construction?

Increased risk of vertical fire spread and fall hazards Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of dropping heavy, non-valuable objects down the trash chute during a fire?

To relieve potential obstructions in the chute Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical factor in fire protection for buildings under construction?

Maintaining one functioning standpipe Signup and view all the answers

Why should personnel not use elevators when dealing with smoldering materials during a high-rise fire?

Elevators can trap personnel in a dangerous situation Signup and view all the answers

What is often the cause of increased fire load in a high-rise under construction?

Large volumes of combustible and flammable materials present Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighting teams expect regarding visibility when navigating construction sites during low-light conditions?

Increased trip hazards will necessitate auxiliary lighting Signup and view all the answers

What diameter are the attack lines that may be required for advanced fires beyond manual extinguishment techniques?

2½-inch Signup and view all the answers

How can firefighters check for the presence of fire in the ceiling plenum of a high-rise building?

Using a pike pole Signup and view all the answers

What ventilation control may be necessary for HVAC systems in high-rises during a fire?

Shut the system off or set to non-recirculation mode Signup and view all the answers

What is one potential hazard when pumping FDCs at high pressures?

A burst hoseline can injure individuals Signup and view all the answers

At what minimum flow rate must apparatus pumping at high pressures operate to prevent overheating?

100 gpm Signup and view all the answers

What strategy can be used to replicate the function of a two-stage pump in high-pressure situations?

Conduct tandem pumping operations Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a pressure limitation characteristic of the hose models?

Standard flow rate is 1000 gpm Signup and view all the answers

What must pump operators do to determine if water is flowing into the fire suppression system?

Close discharge valves slowly to check pressure Signup and view all the answers

What pressure must the apparatus pumping the FDC develop to achieve a total of 500 psi if the intake pressure is 200 psi?

300 psi Signup and view all the answers

How has the intake pressure relief valves been modified to facilitate high-pressure operations?

Adjusted to operate at 200 psi Signup and view all the answers

What must be done to avoid overheating when pumping at high pressures?

Ensure continuous water flow Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended method for lashing hoselines to prevent injury at high-pressure pumping operations?

Utilizing rope or nylon webbing Signup and view all the answers

Which type of glass might require special equipment for cutting during fire operations?

Laminated impact-resistant glass Signup and view all the answers

During high-pressure pumping operations, where should hoselines be connected to prevent injury?

Right side or rear of the apparatus Signup and view all the answers

What effect occurs when it is colder outside a high-rise building than inside?

Positive stack effect Signup and view all the answers

During a reverse stack effect, how does smoke typically flow?

It flows downward with cooler air Signup and view all the answers

What happens when firefighters open the stairwell door to the fire floor?

Smoke and heat flow into the stairwell Signup and view all the answers

What is the most effective position for positive pressure fans during a high-rise fire?

Fans at the base of the stairs and one 2 to 3 floors below the fire floor Signup and view all the answers

Why should fans be positioned four feet away from stairwell doorways?

To create a proper discharge pattern Signup and view all the answers

What happens if the stairwell door to the fire floor and the roof are opened simultaneously?

It reduces air pressure in the stairwell Signup and view all the answers

What type of systems are commonly installed in high-rise buildings to prevent smoke from entering stairwells?

Stairwell pressurization systems Signup and view all the answers

What is one method to reduce carbon monoxide emissions from gasoline-powered fans used in firefighting?

Use fans equipped with a catalytic converter Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about PPV fans in high-rise fires is accurate?

They can replicate fixed stairwell pressurization systems Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated to happen when smoke stratification occurs in a stairwell?

Smoke accumulates below the fire floor Signup and view all the answers

What should be a key indicator for restricting access to floors involved in fire during a high-rise incident?

Presence of jacks or lumber supporting multiple floors Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of vehicle fires in high-rise parking garages?

They are generally more difficult due to visibility and space Signup and view all the answers

What action should be prioritized for searching nearby vehicles during a fire in a parking garage?

Vehicles on ramps and those in the ventilation path Signup and view all the answers

When positioning apparatus for fire suppression, what ground condition significantly affects the decision-making?

Presence of muddy or unfinished ground Signup and view all the answers

Why is the presence of unfinished concrete a concern for fire incidents in high-rises?

It is more prone to early collapse when exposed to fire Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to control smoke migration in high-rise buildings during a fire?

Shut down HVAC systems as necessary Signup and view all the answers

What is the best course of action if a fire is reported in an electrical vault?

Secure the area and wait for utility company personnel Signup and view all the answers

What should crews be equipped with when responding to vehicle fires in a high-rise parking garage?

Fire extinguishers and forcible entry tools Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial consideration when attacking a vehicle fire in a parking garage?

Considering the incline of parking decks and ramps Signup and view all the answers

What task should be prioritized during a size-up of a parking garage fire?

Identify the number and type of vehicles Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if hazardous material storage is identified in a parking garage fire?

Evacuate the premises and alert hazardous material teams Signup and view all the answers

What should response teams be cautious of when dealing with electrical fires?

Potential re-energizing from back-up generators Signup and view all the answers

What might be required for remote areas not visibly affected by smoke during a fire incident?

CO metering to check for carbon monoxide Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true regarding commercial high-rise fires?

They typically present additional challenges due to large open spaces Signup and view all the answers

What precautions should be taken when connecting hoselines to pump discharges opposite the pump panel?

Connect hoselines directly to 2½” discharges. Signup and view all the answers

Which conditions can lead to the occurrence of a wind-driven fire?

Strong winds, open windows, and an open door. Signup and view all the answers

What is a sign that a door to a fire apartment may contain a wind-driven fire?

The door is extremely hot, warped, or blistered. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following tactics is NOT recommended for addressing a wind-driven fire?

Closing the door and allowing the fire to spread. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for firefighters to ascertain wind speed and direction immediately?

To predict the fire's spread and report accurate data. Signup and view all the answers

What effect does opening a door to an enclosed stairwell have when firefighters are dealing with a fire?

It can draw a wind-driven fire into the stairwell. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a 'blowtorch condition' in a fire incident?

A sudden rush of flames due to wind conditions. Signup and view all the answers

When are firefighters at increased risk of injury during a wind-driven fire?

When advancing toward a distant fire apartment. Signup and view all the answers

What method should be used to safely vent air movement on the fire floor?

Open a window directly below the fire while keeping other doors closed. Signup and view all the answers

Why should ventilation be approached with caution during high-rise fires?

It has the potential to worsen wind-driven fire conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What should a firefighter do if they encounter extreme heat while advancing toward a fire apartment?

Retreat quickly to the nearest stairwell. Signup and view all the answers

What does using an alternative nozzle above or below a fire unit help achieve?

It allows for a safe, indirect approach to fire suppression. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an incorrect practice regarding high-rise wind-driven fires?

Ignoring signs of potential wind-driven conditions. Signup and view all the answers

Why might wind at street level not accurately represent conditions on upper floors?

Upper floors typically experience stronger winds. Signup and view all the answers

What should be enacted to secure the area around a fire incident?

Utilize scene tape to cordon off areas equal to hose length. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Recommended Equipment for High-Rise Fire Operations

Crews assigned to Fire Attack must carry three 75-ft sections of 2” hose, high-rise accessory bags, thermal imaging cameras, and search line bags, among other tools. Proper coordination between teams is essential.
Search and Rescue teams require halligans, forcible entry tools, TICs, and sufficient search lines to safely locate and assist victims.
Overhaul crews must be equipped with tools like trash hooks and supplemental lighting, emphasizing the importance of thorough post-fire investigations.
Staging crews should have spare SCBA cylinders and equipment tailored to assigned functions, with a focus on readiness for immediate support.
Medical teams supplementing existing groups are provided with medical equipment including AEDs and stretchers to ensure prompt medical aid.

Communication Protocols in High-Rise Fires

Communication effectiveness may decline within high-rise buildings; all units should operate in Duplex mode, reverting to Simplex only when necessary.
Fire Command centers must have back-up communication systems with telephone handsets accessible in stairwells and lobbies for reliable connectivity during emergencies.

Salvage and Overhaul Procedures

Inspect for fire extension in all directions, particularly hazardous conditions created by heavy water discharge and potential electrocution risks.
Excess water in upper floors necessitates immediate removal to prevent structural damage; strategies include water vacuums and coordination with property owners for salvage operations.
Ensure CO gas levels are measured in surrounding areas since high temperatures can drive gases into adjacent spaces.

Specific Hazards in Fire Situations

Trash Chute Fires: Typically start in dumpsters; firefighting efforts should focus on extinguishing the source while controlling smoke migration to upper floors.
Construction Fires: Under-construction buildings are vulnerable; firefighters must be cautious of limited fire protection systems, open vertical shafts, and collapse hazards. Safe access can be challenging, emphasizing pre-incident planning.
Parking Garage Fires: Similar to multi-level garages with added hazards due to vehicle types and configurations; crews must anticipate low visibility and toxic smoke while actively searching for trapped victims.

Tactical Approaches to Electrical Fires

Electrical fires require prioritizing the shutdown of power and confining the fire to limited areas. Multiple floors may need to be accessed if the fire extends through ducts.
Entry into electrical vaults should be avoided until confirmed safe by utility personnel to prevent injury from potential arc flashes.

Commercial High-Rise Fire Considerations

Large open spaces in commercial buildings contribute to rapid fire spread; unchecked fires necessitate the use of larger attack lines, indicating the need for strategic firefighting plans.

Summary of Equipment and Safety Protocols

Different crews have tailored equipment requirements based on tasks (Fire Attack, Search and Rescue, Overhaul, Staging, Medical), ensuring all operations are equipped for effectiveness and safety.
Establishing clear communication channels and emergency protocols is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and personnel safety in high-rise fire scenarios.### High-Rise Fire Safety Procedures
Fixed-pane windows typically do not provide ventilation unless broken.
Some commercial high-rises may have minimal windows or windows that can only be opened with specific tools from maintenance personnel.
In emergencies, request Technical Rescue Teams (TRT) to cut through laminated impact-resistant glass with battery-powered saws.

Fire Behavior and Firefighter Actions

In core-constructed high-rises, fires in the ceiling plenum can wrap around the center core; use a pike pole to check for fires overhead.
HVAC systems using a ceiling plenum for return air may need to be shut down or switched to non-recirculation mode to control smoke spread.

High-Pressure Pumping Safety

High-pressure pumping (>250 psi) poses hazards, such as burst hoses causing injuries or system failures.
Connect hoselines on the apparatus's right side or rear to ensure safety; use ropes or nylon webbing to secure lines.
Incident commanders may allow building fire pumps to develop system demand pressure while preparing to support with external apparatus.

Hose Pressure Limitations

Different hose types have varying service test pressures and burst ratings; for example, Key High-rise hoses can handle pressures up to 600 psi with a burst limit of 1800 psi.

Preventing Pump Overheating

Continuous flow of at least 100 gpm is required to prevent pump overheating during high-pressure operations.
Use a dump line to maintain flow and prevent failure; monitor pump temperatures constantly.

Tandem Pumping Operations

Single-stage pumps in MDFR equipment are less effective for high pressures; tandem pumping with two single-stage units can simulate a two-stage pump's capabilities.
Relief valves on appliances adjusted to 200 psi maximize efficiency when supplying an FDC.

Wind-Driven Fire Characteristics

Wind-driven fires occur from winds, open or broken windows, and open doors to a fire apartment.
These fires can intensify if firefighters inadvertently open doors or windows, creating blowtorch-like conditions.

Recognizing Wind-Driven Fire Risks

Signs of wind-driven conditions include heavy flames visible without smoke, wind at 10 mph+, or an extremely hot closed door to the fire apartment.
Firefighters should assess wind conditions and report to the Incident Commander (IC).

Alternative Tactics for Wind-Driven Fires

Direct suppression methods may be infeasible; consider exterior attacks through windows, using adjoining balconies, or breaching walls from adjacent apartments for fire control.
Alternative nozzles may be deployed from above or below the fire unit.

Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV)

PPV assists in managing smoke flow in high-rise fires and can replicate fixed pressurization systems.
Position PPV fans strategically for maximum effectiveness, using a “V” pattern for airflow.
Monitor CO levels in stairwells when using powered fans; they generally produce less CO than the fire itself.

Stairwell Management

Ensure stairwell doors remain open only as necessary to facilitate hose advancement while reducing smoke ingress.
Conduct CO monitoring in stairwells, especially during peak activities.

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Description

This quiz covers the recommended equipment for companies assigned to fire attack in high-rise fires. Participants will learn about essential tools including hoses, thermal imaging cameras, and search line bags crucial for effective response in high-rise emergencies.

I-B-04 High-Rise Fires 06/16/2022 - II