Ch 8 pg 220-224 HUD Sealed Buildings Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What distinguishes HUD sealed buildings from abandoned buildings?

They are always located in urban areas.

They are always owned by government entities.

They are permanently closed off to the public.

They have an owner attempting to preserve them. (correct)

Which method is commonly used to secure HUD windows against vandalism?

Plywood secured with 2x4 bracing on the inside. (correct)

Alarm systems monitoring the premises.

Metal grates installed on the exterior.

Tinted glass to obscure visibility.

What is a significant challenge presented by HUD sealed buildings during emergencies?

They have readily visible evacuation routes.

They pose difficult forcible-entry and ventilation challenges. (correct)

They can be easily accessed by emergency responders.

Their maintenance is often neglected.

Who primarily oversees the guidelines for securing HUD sealed buildings?

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Signup and view all the answers

Why are banks motivated to protect HUD sealed buildings?

To retain the value of properties post-foreclosure. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step recommended when attempting to force a HUD window from the interior?

Strike the ends of the bottom braces Signup and view all the answers

Which method for forcing a HUD window requires the use of bolt cutters?

Cutting through the 3/8" carriage bolts Signup and view all the answers

What might be encountered when conducting interior operations on a HUD window?

The interior is tightly sealed without fire indications Signup and view all the answers

Why is it necessary to have someone hold the window covering during the operation?

To prevent it from falling and injuring firefighters Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about the techniques for forcing HUD windows?

Both techniques assume you can stand and see well Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary hazard associated with removing HUD windows?

Injury from falling sheets of plywood Signup and view all the answers

What was the weight of the stucco-covered window that nearly injured the chief?

100 pounds Signup and view all the answers

What precaution should personnel take before removing HUD windows?

Remind personnel about the hazards of falling objects Signup and view all the answers

How did the chief react after being struck by the window?

He lost consciousness but regained it in the Stokes basket Signup and view all the answers

What specific incident was highlighted to illustrate the danger of removing HUD windows?

The chief was almost killed by falling windows Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern when cutting the bolts for HUD windows?

Preventing the covering from falling uncontrollably Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following platforms is NOT recommended for cutting HUD window bolts?

Portable ladder Signup and view all the answers

When using a circular saw to cut bolt heads, at what angle should the saw be positioned?

45 degrees Signup and view all the answers

After cutting the heads off the bolts, what tool is suggested for driving the remainder of the bolt through the brace?

Halligan tool Signup and view all the answers

How should a torch be utilized when cutting HUD window bolts?

To cut the bolt heads with similar effectiveness as a saw Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus when using a circular saw to remove a window covering?

Cutting surrounding wood around the bolt head Signup and view all the answers

Which method allows the window covering to fall free?

Pulling the covering outward if the inside brace is not nailed Signup and view all the answers

What safety caution should be taken when using a chainsaw?

Avoid striking metal bars or window framing Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if the covering does not come off easily?

Expand the cut into a rectangular hole Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of cutting through plywood with a chainsaw without caution?

There is a risk of kickback or injury from hitting metal Signup and view all the answers

What is the appropriate tool to initially split the wood around the bolts?

An adze Signup and view all the answers

Which method is suggested for removing the outer brace once the bolts are loosened?

Using a bolt cutter or pounding the bolt through Signup and view all the answers

What is essential to do before working on the bolts?

Get the wood between two bolts loose Signup and view all the answers

What type of hammer is mentioned as helpful during this process?

A sledgehammer (maul) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary disadvantage of using hand tools over power tools?

Hand tools mandate more physical effort Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary benefits of the coverings installed on vacant properties?

They provide adequate ventilation while preventing the growth of mould and mildew. Signup and view all the answers

Which method is NOT recommended for removing the property coverings?

Applying excessive force to pry the coverings from the wall. Signup and view all the answers

What ensures the security of vacant properties according to the installation process?

The tension cables, braces, and bolts utilized during installation. Signup and view all the answers

How much do the property coverings typically cost to rent each month?

$350 per month Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding the installation of property coverings?

Installation techniques are similar to those used in older HUD windows. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary concern when removing covers from HUD windows?

Potential injury to outside personnel Signup and view all the answers

What should the IC ensure during operations involving HUD window coverings?

Perimeter remains clear of operating personnel Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a disadvantage of using plywood for HUD window sealing?

It makes manipulation through the window challenging Signup and view all the answers

What can be a consequence of insufficient communication about cover removals in HUD buildings?

Higher risk of accidents and injuries Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential hazard associated with the removal of HUD window coverings?

Accidental dropping of covers on personnel Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of using sheet metal cladding on plywood?

It significantly prolongs the lifespan of the plywood. Signup and view all the answers

Which technique is most adversely affected by the application of sheet metal cladding?

Punching bolts through the material. Signup and view all the answers

What challenge does sheet metal cladding present when attempting to use a chainsaw?

It renders the chainsaw use too dangerous. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the application of sheet metal cladding not common despite its effectiveness?

It is a time-consuming and skill-demanding process. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a result of applying sheet metal cladding to plywood?

It creates a dual layer to cut through during forcible entry. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic makes stucco-covered HUD windows particularly dangerous for exterior forcible entry?

They are reinforced with materials that are nearly impossible to break. Signup and view all the answers

Which component is NOT part of the construction process for stucco-covered HUD windows?

A layer of glass Signup and view all the answers

Why is cutting a stucco-covered window with a chainsaw considered unsafe?

It is ineffective due to the reinforced construction. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the VPS system used with HUD windows?

To improve security against unauthorized access. Signup and view all the answers

In comparison to sheet metal cladding, what aspect makes stucco coverage worse for securing HUD windows?

The combination of wire mesh and cement creates a more difficult barrier. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

HUD Sealed Buildings Overview

Foreclosures have led to an increase in sealed vacant buildings, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
Unlike abandoned buildings, sealed buildings have owners (often banks or mortgage companies) aiming to protect their value.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) guides the protection measures for these buildings.
"HUD windows" refer to the specialized window coverings designed to deter vandalism.

Characteristics and Reinforcement

Basic HUD window coverings consist of plywood secured with 2x4 bracing on the inside, fastened with ⅜-inch bolts.
Reinforced HUD windows feature bolts through exterior and interior braces, making forcible entry challenging.
Extreme caution is necessary as removal efforts can lead to injuries from falling debris, with previous incidents involving severe injuries to firefighters.

Forcible Entry Techniques

Interior forcible entry involves targeting the 2x4 braces, ideally starting with the bottom before the top to prevent peeling.
A two-person operation is recommended for managing heavy window coverings during removal.
Alternatives include using bolt cutters on 3/8-inch bolts or employing heavy tools to strike the bracing.

Removal Methods for HUD Windows

Techniques for external removal require a stable platform, ensuring safety against falling debris.
Common tools include circular saws and torches for cutting bolts; however, cutting should avoid critical structural elements.
Manual removal can be more demanding, involving hand tools like Halligan tools and axes to free the coverings.

Challenges of Stucco-Covered HUD Windows

Stucco-covered windows present heightened dangers for exterior forcible entry due to their construction, including wire mesh and cement coating.
The complexity of cutting through stucco necessitates strong caution against injury and complications.
Interior access may offer a safer alternative for opening stucco-covered HUD windows.

Vacant Property Security (VPS) System

VPS installations utilize perforated steel coverings that allow light and ventilation, mitigating mold risks.
Coverings are tightened by tension cables or bolts and are safer to manage but heavier than previous types.
Removal involves cutting metal braces and ensuring safe handling due to the 40-pound weight of coverings.

Cost and Purpose of VPS

Coverage systems are typically installed on recently foreclosed properties to prevent theft and vandalism.
Monthly rental costs for VPS systems exceed $350, reflecting their effectiveness and robust construction.
The Incident Commander (IC) must ensure clear communication and safety protocols to protect personnel from falling coverings during operations.

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Description

Explore the challenges that firefighters face when dealing with sealed vacant buildings, particularly in the context of recent home foreclosures. Understand the distinction between sealed buildings and abandoned ones, and the role of organizations like the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).