EOG 300 pg 44-47- Elevator Operations

Elevators present hazards during fires, including malfunctioning and exposure to fire, smoke, or superheated gases. Specific safety protocols must be followed when using elevators at fires.

A key-operated box containing essential keys for accessing elevator control systems and building interiors.

This phase, activated by key or smoke detectors, secures the elevator by returning it to a pre-determined floor and locking it to prevent normal use during a fire.

Activated after Phase I, this phase allows elevator operation only from the car station.

Investigative teams may use elevators if the fire alarm system has no multiple trips and they are trained in elevator operations.

The Incident Commander (IC) can allow elevator use during working fires, subject to strict safety protocols.

Avoid upper floors and ensure the elevator shaft is clear of smoke and fire damage before using the elevator.

Verify the fire floor before using the elevator by observation or inquiry, and exit the elevator at least two floors below smoke reports.

If the fire is within five floors of the elevator lobby, walk up the stairs instead of using the elevator.

Before using the elevator, note the stairway location and distance, and limit use to six firefighters at a time.

Exit the elevator if an 'Under Control' signal has not been issued.

Lobby control should log all elevator usage details.

Firefighters must wear full PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) and have portable radios and forcible entry tools.

Only use elevators designated as 'Fire Service Feature' as they have features like the 'Call Cancel' button.

This button allows immediate stopping before reaching a selected floor, ensuring firefighters can react swiftly to changes in the situation.

In emergency situations, ensure you have forcible entry tools readily accessible.

Utilize emergency stop buttons and perform precautionary stops every five floors to verify elevator functionality and stairway locations.

Upon reaching the destination, be prepared to don your face piece and move towards the nearest stairway if smoke enters the elevator car.

Do not block the elevator doors. Use the hold function to secure the car while exiting.

Designate a firefighter to operate the elevator to maximize resource utilization by later arriving units.

Familiarize crew members with elevator operations and pre-incident planning.

Elevators should not be treated lightly; they present both advantages and risks, requiring careful planning and execution.

Familiarizing oneself with the capabilities and limitations of elevators is essential, considering factors like phase activation methods and safety protocols.

Elevator use during emergencies demands strict adherence to safety protocols and efficient decision-making by the Incident Commander (IC).

Ensure proper communication, coordinated team effort, and the use of specialized features to optimize safety and effectiveness.

Utilizing elevators safely and efficiently requires a combination of knowledge, preparedness, and adherence to established protocols.