I-B-11 Multi-Family Dwelling Fires 07/08/2020

Questions and Answers

What is the maximum height for structures included in this SOP?

Four stories

Five stories (correct)

Six stories under 50’ (correct)

Seven stories

Which method is least efficient for accessing upper floors above the third floor?

Portable Standpipe Evolution

Jumpline Extension Evolution

Flying Pike Pole Evolution (correct)

Auto-Exposure

What does the term 'Auto-Exposure' refer to in the context of structure fires?

Fire containment within the structure

Exposure of the apartment below to fire

Automatic fire suppression systems in buildings

Means of fire travel from one apartment or floor to another (correct)

Which evolution involves extending a pre-connected jumpline with additional hose?

Jumpline Extension Evolution Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Scrub Area in fire response?

Coverage area for aerial ladders without repositioning Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of multifamily dwellings regarding fire risk?

They often confine fires to the apartment of origin Signup and view all the answers

What does the Portable Standpipe Evolution involve?

Lowering or hoisting a 3” hose to the desired floor Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of the construction methods used in multifamily dwellings?

They help confine fires to the area of origin Signup and view all the answers

What is a Split Lay in water supply evolution?

Connecting two apparatus to form a single supply line. Signup and view all the answers

Which feature is commonly found in roof constructions of multi-family dwellings?

Lightweight wood or metal trusses. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key risk associated with overhanging roof facades?

They may collapse under fire conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What type of building construction features solid concrete exterior walls?

Tilt-up construction. Signup and view all the answers

How do open hallways benefit fire attacks in apartment fires?

They allow for faster occupant evacuation. Signup and view all the answers

Why can common attics in apartment buildings be a fire hazard?

Fire can spread quickly through the roof structure. Signup and view all the answers

What type of floor support systems are likely found in multi-family dwellings?

Metal or wood I beams and wood joists. Signup and view all the answers

What construction arrangement helps facilitate vertical fire and smoke spread?

Arranging kitchens and bathrooms in a straight column. Signup and view all the answers

Where are electrical meters typically located in apartment buildings?

On the exterior or in meter rooms. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of stairwell is characterized by changing direction at each floor?

Scissor stairs. Signup and view all the answers

What must be assumed about structures with mixed construction features until proven otherwise?

They may have the weakest characteristics. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential problem with stairwells that are not open or smoke-proof?

They can act as chimneys for heat and smoke. Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum number of floors that can be reached using a single 50’ length of hose with the Well Stretch method?

5 floors. Signup and view all the answers

What is crucial for coordinating speedy occupant evacuation during an emergency?

Designating stairs as attack, ventilation, and evacuation Signup and view all the answers

Which type of fire alarm system is often required in apartment buildings?

Fire alarm notification systems Signup and view all the answers

What requirement is usually not applicable for standpipe systems?

Structures less than 50 feet in height Signup and view all the answers

In the context of fire incidents, what kind of hazards must be identified and communicated?

Potential hazards to personnel Signup and view all the answers

Why must the first arriving rescue unit be prepared to engage in firefighting activities?

To be ready for immediate threats to life Signup and view all the answers

What should the first arriving suppression apparatus do upon arrival?

Begin size-up and establish command Signup and view all the answers

What happens when designating attack stairs for occupant evacuation?

It can create trip hazards with fire hoses Signup and view all the answers

What key action must be taken when it is necessary to silence the fire alarm system?

Silence it to improve communication Signup and view all the answers

In well-involved fires, what is a rare occurrence regarding structural hazards?

Complete collapse of the structure Signup and view all the answers

For the first arriving apparatus, what should be prioritized regarding the vehicle's placement?

To facilitate stretching hoselines Signup and view all the answers

Which procedure increases the chance of victim location during a search?

Using Vent, Enter, Search (VES) procedures Signup and view all the answers

When encountering potential fall-through hazards, what is a possible structural issue?

Weakened floors Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal when managing personnel hazards during fire incidents?

To ensure risks are properly identified and mitigated Signup and view all the answers

What is the first priority when searching a building with enclosed hallways after completing the search of the fire apartment?

Floor above the fire floor Signup and view all the answers

Why are enclosed hallways considered more hazardous during a fire compared to open hallways?

They do not allow smoke to vent directly to the outside. Signup and view all the answers

What should a search team be particularly cautious about when searching vacant structures?

Ignoring the possibility of vagrants inside. Signup and view all the answers

When deploying hoselines in a fire incident, what is a critical factor for determining the route taken?

Verifying the location of the fire apartment. Signup and view all the answers

What complication may arise when fighting fires in large structures?

Less apparent points of entry. Signup and view all the answers

What is essential for ensuring hoseline access to upper floors in a firefighting scenario?

Using a portable standpipe evolution. Signup and view all the answers

In a situation where several victims are present, what must be done to assist in their removal?

Utilize additional personnel and equipment. Signup and view all the answers

When conducting a search on a fire floor, which area is searched next?

Floor above the fire floor Signup and view all the answers

What is a common practice when fighting fires located on upper floors?

Extinguish any fire on floors below first. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major consideration when locating the fire apartment?

Understanding the layout of the floors below. Signup and view all the answers

What strategy should be used when a hoseline is deployed from an untenable hallway?

Charge hoseline from an open area. Signup and view all the answers

How far can attack hose lengths potentially exceed in certain firefighting scenarios?

200 feet Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with the fire apparatus when the location of the fire apartment is still uncertain?

Keep the apparatus uncommitted. Signup and view all the answers

What should take priority when an immediate need exists for the aerial piece?

Initial hoseline placement for fire attack Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken if there are no visible signs of fire upon arrival?

Enter the building with tools and hose to initiate a primary search and fire attack Signup and view all the answers

What is often considered the most important function of the crew on the fireground?

Placement of the initial hoseline to attack the fire Signup and view all the answers

What must the Officer-in-Charge decide when an imminent rescue need exists?

Whether to continue initial attack efforts Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical function that the second arriving suppression crew should accomplish?

Establish the initial hoseline and ensure it is operational Signup and view all the answers

What should the third arriving suppression unit prepare for?

Preparation for a supply evolution Signup and view all the answers

When can a request for an unsafe structure evaluation be made?

If structural integrity is in question Signup and view all the answers

What strategy is typically employed as the standard operating procedure when responding to multi-family dwelling fires?

Offensive strategy generally Signup and view all the answers

What must be done to protect occupants during a fire incident?

Determine the potential danger to occupants and take necessary steps Signup and view all the answers

What role does police play during a fire incident?

Control occupant re-entry and scene preservation Signup and view all the answers

What is an appropriate course of action if multiple casualties are anticipated at an incident?

Establish a Medical Branch for resource management Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of the fire crew after the hoseline has controlled the fire?

Conducting a primary search if it is not underway or complete Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the fourth arriving suppression unit?

Prepare to assume Rapid Intervention Crew functions if not assigned elsewhere Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of utilizing a well stretch when stretching hose?

It is faster than stretching hose around the stairs. Signup and view all the answers

Which area is essential to check for fire extension in attached exposures?

The attic and electrical chases in adjoining apartments. Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstance should a dedicated water supply be established?

If the fire is significant and spreading to exposures. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of placing ladders at multi-level structures?

To allow access for ventilation and rescue operations. Signup and view all the answers

Why is horizontal ventilation preferred during a fire attack?

It allows for quicker smoke removal. Signup and view all the answers

What should be prioritized when performing ventilation during a fire incident?

Area with known life hazards. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of cellulose insulation poses a risk during overhaul?

It can hide smoldering fires effectively. Signup and view all the answers

When breaking windows during an upper floor ventilation, which precaution should be taken?

Use forceful tools only after exhausting alternatives. Signup and view all the answers

What should a third arriving suppression unit do before proceeding to the scene?

Check for orders on water supply establishment. Signup and view all the answers

What type of building features are particularly concerning for fire travel?

Combustible shared surfaces and utility chases. Signup and view all the answers

Which action should be taken when establishing a water supply from a hydrant?

Utilize the D/O alone or with minimal assistance. Signup and view all the answers

What is the best way to improve horizontal ventilation when safely possible?

Use positive pressure ventilation fans. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a reason to consider vertical ventilation?

If there are high chances of severe fire spread in the attic. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical factor regarding the arrival of first suppression units at multi-family dwelling fires?

A crucial assessment of tank water must be made. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary concern when fire may have spread to areas remote from the charred area?

The possibility of rekindling fires Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a recommended action for removing excess water accumulation from upper floors?

Channeling water down elevator shafts Signup and view all the answers

When faced with a rapidly moving fire in an attic, what is the best initial strategy for crews?

Positioning hoselines to stop the spread Signup and view all the answers

Why is it dangerous to perform roof ventilation in the presence of an attic fire?

It risks structural collapse Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of scanning the ceiling below with a Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC)?

To detect smoldering fires that are hidden Signup and view all the answers

What hazard can arise from excess water accumulation on upper floors?

Potential for structural collapse Signup and view all the answers

When dealing with a trash chute fire, what must the first crew do if smoke is present on the first floor?

Locate and suppress the fire in the dumpster room Signup and view all the answers

What is an effective tactic when battling fires in mansard roofs?

Pull ceilings from inside the apartment for access Signup and view all the answers

How should crews respond if they encounter an obstruction in a trash chute causing smoke?

Stretch a hoseline to extinguish from above Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the first steps to take when managing attic or cockloft fires?

Advance ahead of the fire to pull ceilings Signup and view all the answers

When encountering fire near a dumpster, how should suppression efforts be coordinated?

Locate the dumpster room and pull it out for extinguishment Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should be avoided when attempting to remove materials from upper floors?

Entering an elevator with smoldering materials Signup and view all the answers

What should crews monitor for when there are well-involved fire conditions?

Presence of carbon monoxide in adjacent areas Signup and view all the answers

What can indicate the presence of a hidden fire that might rekindle?

Heat signatures detected during inspections Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Structure Fires in Miami-Dade County

Most structure fires are residential, particularly in multifamily dwellings (1-5 stories).
Some six-story buildings under 50 feet are also included; these structures have high occupant loads and rarely have standpipes.
Construction methods generally confine fires to the area of origin, aiding firefighting efforts.

Fire Spread and Tactics

Auto-exposure refers to fire spreading to adjacent apartments through windows via flame, radiant heat, or convected heat.
Flying Pike Pole technique is used to raise hoses to upper floors through open hallways but is limited above the third floor due to manpower needs.
Jumpline Extension is a method to extend a pre-connected jumpline with up to 400 feet of additional hose for swift handline deployment.
Portable Standpipe Evolution involves lowering a hose from the pump to a desired floor to supply attack lines.

Construction Features

Common wall and roof materials include concrete block and stucco, with various lightweight wood or metal trusses used for roof support.
Overhanging facades can contribute to fire spread and pose collapse hazards if not checked meticulously.
Tilt-up construction, consisting of solid concrete walls and lightweight roofs, is prevalent in commercial buildings but less so in residences.

Hazardous Conditions

Many apartment buildings have shared attics, leading to widespread fire spread if ignited.
Apartment construction may also feature mixed materials; assume the weakest construction characteristics in fire operations.
Hazards include confined spaces with high heat, potential BLEVEs, and issues such as structural collapse or weakened floors.

Fireground Operations

First responding units must assess the situation, report, and establish command while ensuring personnel safety and addressing any identified hazards.
The first arriving rescue should be ready for firefighting roles, and medical teams must be stationed efficiently.
Initial hoseline placement is crucial; extinguishing the fire takes precedence over rescue unless immediate danger to occupants exists.

Strategic Considerations

The Incident Commander (IC) must coordinate resources effectively, potentially establishing a medical group for managing casualties.
In cases of structural instability, a defensive strategy is preferred, particularly in vacant buildings or when severe hazards are present.
Primary searches should focus on areas of potential victim presence, particularly bedrooms and paths of egress, employing thermal imaging for efficiency.

Personnel Safety

Firefighters face risks from enclosed hallways, BLEVE dangers, structural collapses, and the presence of hazardous materials.
Effective communication about hazards is essential, including the necessity for tactical placements of personnel near dangerous areas.
Establishing designated attack and evacuation routes helps enhance safety and efficiency during operations in multifamily units.

Multi-Unit Incident Management

Multiple victim incidents may require deployment of a Medical Branch and support teams for effective resource management.
Law enforcement plays a vital role in maintaining scene security and can assist with occupant verification post-evacuation.
The IC should anticipate resource needs and request additional support early, particularly for larger or more complex fire situations.### Search and Rescue Protocols
Enclosed hallways trap smoke, necessitating a prioritized search: starting from the fire floor, to the floor above, and so on.
In buildings with open hallways, smoke vents outside; search should begin directly above the fire apartment.
Challenges in occupant removal arise with multiple or large victims, requiring additional personnel and equipment.
Vacant or abandoned structures need careful searching; vagrancy hazards demand adherence to Risk Management principles.

Fire Control Strategies

Verify the fire apartment location before deploying hoselines; utilize adequate hose packs (200’) for efficiency.
Complications in locating fire arise from limited access, smoldering fires, and intricate floor plans.
Direct hoselines deployment from the apparatus; potential methods include portable standpipe evolution and well or jumpline stretches.
Hoselines should originate from a tenable staircase for safety when advancing into smoke-filled hallways.
Confirm extinguishing lower floor fires before sending crews to upper floors to maintain safety.

Water Supply Considerations

Multi-family fires often manageable with tank water, but a dedicated water supply must be established under certain conditions, such as advanced fires or long attack lines.
Hydrant access should be prioritized for establishing a water supply; third arriving units confirm orders before proceeding.

Ladder Operations

Proper ladder placement is crucial for accessing victims and providing secondary egress options for crews.
Maximum effectiveness of aerial operations is achieved when rear-mounted apparatus is utilized.

Ventilation Techniques

Ventilation must coordinate with fire attack unless in life-threatening situations.
Horizontal ventilation is the quickest method for smoke removal; PPV fans may be employed to enhance effectiveness.
Assess for falling glass hazards when breaking windows on upper floors; implement safety measures.

Salvage and Overhaul Procedures

Care must be taken to inspect cellulose insulation for hidden smoldering fires; the area should be scanned with a Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC).
Excess water removal from upper floors is essential to prevent structural damage or collapse; methods include directing water into public halls or utilizing vacuums.
Conduct CO readings in six directions from the fire apartment to ensure safety throughout the structure.

Specific Fire Situations

Attic/Cockloft Fires

Rapidly spreading fires in attics require proactive measures to cut off the fire's path; simultaneous flanking may be necessary.
Utilize a combination of hoseline teams and pike poles for effective ceiling access and fire containment.

Trash Chute Fires

Trash chute fires typically originate at the bottom and cause smoke accumulation on upper floors; aggressive searching is not always warranted.
First response includes locating the dumpster room and suppressing the fire, especially if the sprinkler is functional.
Check for chute obstructions and spread; sometimes, a weight can be used to alleviate blockages.

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Description

This quiz covers the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) related to structure fires in residential areas of Miami-Dade County, emphasizing multifamily dwellings. Learn about the characteristics of apartment structures, fire safety measures, and the unique challenges posed by high occupant loads. Understand how construction methods play a role in fire confinement.