Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the maximum height for structures included in this SOP?
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?
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?
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?
Which evolution involves extending a pre-connected jumpline with additional hose?
What is the purpose of the Scrub Area in fire response?
What is the purpose of the Scrub Area in fire response?
What is a common feature of multifamily dwellings regarding fire risk?
What is a common feature of multifamily dwellings regarding fire risk?
What does the Portable Standpipe Evolution involve?
What does the Portable Standpipe Evolution involve?
What is the primary advantage of the construction methods used in multifamily dwellings?
What is the primary advantage of the construction methods used in multifamily dwellings?
What is a Split Lay in water supply evolution?
What is a Split Lay in water supply evolution?
Which feature is commonly found in roof constructions of multi-family dwellings?
Which feature is commonly found in roof constructions of multi-family dwellings?
What is a key risk associated with overhanging roof facades?
What is a key risk associated with overhanging roof facades?
What type of building construction features solid concrete exterior walls?
What type of building construction features solid concrete exterior walls?
How do open hallways benefit fire attacks in apartment fires?
How do open hallways benefit fire attacks in apartment fires?
Why can common attics in apartment buildings be a fire hazard?
Why can common attics in apartment buildings be a fire hazard?
What type of floor support systems are likely found in multi-family dwellings?
What type of floor support systems are likely found in multi-family dwellings?
What construction arrangement helps facilitate vertical fire and smoke spread?
What construction arrangement helps facilitate vertical fire and smoke spread?
Where are electrical meters typically located in apartment buildings?
Where are electrical meters typically located in apartment buildings?
Which type of stairwell is characterized by changing direction at each floor?
Which type of stairwell is characterized by changing direction at each floor?
What must be assumed about structures with mixed construction features until proven otherwise?
What must be assumed about structures with mixed construction features until proven otherwise?
What is a potential problem with stairwells that are not open or smoke-proof?
What is a potential problem with stairwells that are not open or smoke-proof?
What is the maximum number of floors that can be reached using a single 50’ length of hose with the Well Stretch method?
What is the maximum number of floors that can be reached using a single 50’ length of hose with the Well Stretch method?
What is crucial for coordinating speedy occupant evacuation during an emergency?
What is crucial for coordinating speedy occupant evacuation during an emergency?
Which type of fire alarm system is often required in apartment buildings?
Which type of fire alarm system is often required in apartment buildings?
What requirement is usually not applicable for standpipe systems?
What requirement is usually not applicable for standpipe systems?
In the context of fire incidents, what kind of hazards must be identified and communicated?
In the context of fire incidents, what kind of hazards must be identified and communicated?
Why must the first arriving rescue unit be prepared to engage in firefighting activities?
Why must the first arriving rescue unit be prepared to engage in firefighting activities?
What should the first arriving suppression apparatus do upon arrival?
What should the first arriving suppression apparatus do upon arrival?
What happens when designating attack stairs for occupant evacuation?
What happens when designating attack stairs for occupant evacuation?
What key action must be taken when it is necessary to silence the fire alarm system?
What key action must be taken when it is necessary to silence the fire alarm system?
In well-involved fires, what is a rare occurrence regarding structural hazards?
In well-involved fires, what is a rare occurrence regarding structural hazards?
For the first arriving apparatus, what should be prioritized regarding the vehicle's placement?
For the first arriving apparatus, what should be prioritized regarding the vehicle's placement?
Which procedure increases the chance of victim location during a search?
Which procedure increases the chance of victim location during a search?
When encountering potential fall-through hazards, what is a possible structural issue?
When encountering potential fall-through hazards, what is a possible structural issue?
What is the goal when managing personnel hazards during fire incidents?
What is the goal when managing personnel hazards during fire incidents?
What is the first priority when searching a building with enclosed hallways after completing the search of the fire apartment?
What is the first priority when searching a building with enclosed hallways after completing the search of the fire apartment?
Why are enclosed hallways considered more hazardous during a fire compared to open hallways?
Why are enclosed hallways considered more hazardous during a fire compared to open hallways?
What should a search team be particularly cautious about when searching vacant structures?
What should a search team be particularly cautious about when searching vacant structures?
When deploying hoselines in a fire incident, what is a critical factor for determining the route taken?
When deploying hoselines in a fire incident, what is a critical factor for determining the route taken?
What complication may arise when fighting fires in large structures?
What complication may arise when fighting fires in large structures?
What is essential for ensuring hoseline access to upper floors in a firefighting scenario?
What is essential for ensuring hoseline access to upper floors in a firefighting scenario?
In a situation where several victims are present, what must be done to assist in their removal?
In a situation where several victims are present, what must be done to assist in their removal?
When conducting a search on a fire floor, which area is searched next?
When conducting a search on a fire floor, which area is searched next?
What is a common practice when fighting fires located on upper floors?
What is a common practice when fighting fires located on upper floors?
What is a major consideration when locating the fire apartment?
What is a major consideration when locating the fire apartment?
What strategy should be used when a hoseline is deployed from an untenable hallway?
What strategy should be used when a hoseline is deployed from an untenable hallway?
How far can attack hose lengths potentially exceed in certain firefighting scenarios?
How far can attack hose lengths potentially exceed in certain firefighting scenarios?
What should be done with the fire apparatus when the location of the fire apartment is still uncertain?
What should be done with the fire apparatus when the location of the fire apartment is still uncertain?
What should take priority when an immediate need exists for the aerial piece?
What should take priority when an immediate need exists for the aerial piece?
What action should be taken if there are no visible signs of fire upon arrival?
What action should be taken if there are no visible signs of fire upon arrival?
What is often considered the most important function of the crew on the fireground?
What is often considered the most important function of the crew on the fireground?
What must the Officer-in-Charge decide when an imminent rescue need exists?
What must the Officer-in-Charge decide when an imminent rescue need exists?
What is a critical function that the second arriving suppression crew should accomplish?
What is a critical function that the second arriving suppression crew should accomplish?
What should the third arriving suppression unit prepare for?
What should the third arriving suppression unit prepare for?
When can a request for an unsafe structure evaluation be made?
When can a request for an unsafe structure evaluation be made?
What strategy is typically employed as the standard operating procedure when responding to multi-family dwelling fires?
What strategy is typically employed as the standard operating procedure when responding to multi-family dwelling fires?
What must be done to protect occupants during a fire incident?
What must be done to protect occupants during a fire incident?
What role does police play during a fire incident?
What role does police play during a fire incident?
What is an appropriate course of action if multiple casualties are anticipated at an incident?
What is an appropriate course of action if multiple casualties are anticipated at an incident?
What is the focus of the fire crew after the hoseline has controlled the fire?
What is the focus of the fire crew after the hoseline has controlled the fire?
What is the primary responsibility of the fourth arriving suppression unit?
What is the primary responsibility of the fourth arriving suppression unit?
What is the primary advantage of utilizing a well stretch when stretching hose?
What is the primary advantage of utilizing a well stretch when stretching hose?
Which area is essential to check for fire extension in attached exposures?
Which area is essential to check for fire extension in attached exposures?
Under what circumstance should a dedicated water supply be established?
Under what circumstance should a dedicated water supply be established?
What is the main function of placing ladders at multi-level structures?
What is the main function of placing ladders at multi-level structures?
Why is horizontal ventilation preferred during a fire attack?
Why is horizontal ventilation preferred during a fire attack?
What should be prioritized when performing ventilation during a fire incident?
What should be prioritized when performing ventilation during a fire incident?
What characteristic of cellulose insulation poses a risk during overhaul?
What characteristic of cellulose insulation poses a risk during overhaul?
When breaking windows during an upper floor ventilation, which precaution should be taken?
When breaking windows during an upper floor ventilation, which precaution should be taken?
What should a third arriving suppression unit do before proceeding to the scene?
What should a third arriving suppression unit do before proceeding to the scene?
What type of building features are particularly concerning for fire travel?
What type of building features are particularly concerning for fire travel?
Which action should be taken when establishing a water supply from a hydrant?
Which action should be taken when establishing a water supply from a hydrant?
What is the best way to improve horizontal ventilation when safely possible?
What is the best way to improve horizontal ventilation when safely possible?
Which of the following is a reason to consider vertical ventilation?
Which of the following is a reason to consider vertical ventilation?
What is a critical factor regarding the arrival of first suppression units at multi-family dwelling fires?
What is a critical factor regarding the arrival of first suppression units at multi-family dwelling fires?
What is a primary concern when fire may have spread to areas remote from the charred area?
What is a primary concern when fire may have spread to areas remote from the charred area?
Which of the following is NOT a recommended action for removing excess water accumulation from upper floors?
Which of the following is NOT a recommended action for removing excess water accumulation from upper floors?
When faced with a rapidly moving fire in an attic, what is the best initial strategy for crews?
When faced with a rapidly moving fire in an attic, what is the best initial strategy for crews?
Why is it dangerous to perform roof ventilation in the presence of an attic fire?
Why is it dangerous to perform roof ventilation in the presence of an attic fire?
What is the purpose of scanning the ceiling below with a Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC)?
What is the purpose of scanning the ceiling below with a Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC)?
What hazard can arise from excess water accumulation on upper floors?
What hazard can arise from excess water accumulation on upper floors?
When dealing with a trash chute fire, what must the first crew do if smoke is present on the first floor?
When dealing with a trash chute fire, what must the first crew do if smoke is present on the first floor?
What is an effective tactic when battling fires in mansard roofs?
What is an effective tactic when battling fires in mansard roofs?
How should crews respond if they encounter an obstruction in a trash chute causing smoke?
How should crews respond if they encounter an obstruction in a trash chute causing smoke?
What is one of the first steps to take when managing attic or cockloft fires?
What is one of the first steps to take when managing attic or cockloft fires?
When encountering fire near a dumpster, how should suppression efforts be coordinated?
When encountering fire near a dumpster, how should suppression efforts be coordinated?
Which of the following should be avoided when attempting to remove materials from upper floors?
Which of the following should be avoided when attempting to remove materials from upper floors?
What should crews monitor for when there are well-involved fire conditions?
What should crews monitor for when there are well-involved fire conditions?
What can indicate the presence of a hidden fire that might rekindle?
What can indicate the presence of a hidden fire that might rekindle?
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.
