EOG 300 pg 72-75 power lines

Questions and Answers

What is the primary goal in isolating an electrical problem in high rise buildings?

To maximize the efficiency of electrical distribution.

To ensure all electrical service is fully operational.

To prevent interruption of service to the entire building. (correct)

To locate the nearest power supply.

Which statement about UPS rooms is accurate?

They are designed to provide continuous power without interruption.

They must be situated on the highest floors of a building.

They are isolated from other electrical systems for safety.

They contain batteries delivering 500 volts of direct current for temporary power. (correct)

How should firefighters proceed if they detect an imminent life safety risk from energized electrical circuits?

Only report the situation to the IC.

Continue with fire suppression activities as usual.

Engage in property conservation measures cautiously.

Refrain from suppression activities until safety is ensured. (correct)

Which indicator suggests a potential electrical issue in a residential occupancy?

Flickering and dimming lights. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary concern when using thermal imaging cameras (TICs) in firefighting?

To locate potential fires inside walls. Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters do regarding ground ladders in the presence of high voltage lines?

Keep them away from electrical service entrances. Signup and view all the answers

When should electricity be shut off in residential fire scenarios?

As soon as possible upon the fire's indication. Signup and view all the answers

What potential hazard do batteries in UPS rooms present?

Risk of acid release. Signup and view all the answers

What action should the Incident Commander take during high call volume situations?

Listen to radio traffic for higher priority calls and consider leaving the scene of an electrical emergency if precautions are met. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following must occur before firefighters can engage in fighting a fire at an electrical substation?

An authorized representative from the electrical utility agency must be present at the scene. Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters avoid doing when an underground electrical equipment fire is present?

Directing water into manholes or above the equipment involved in the fire. Signup and view all the answers

In the case of an electrical emergency, when is it permissible for the Incident Commander to leave the scene?

When no fire is present and proper precautions have been taken. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of fuel classification applies once an energized piece of equipment is de-energized?

It is classified as a Class A or B fire. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Incident Commander (IC) do if there is arcing from a downed line?

Advise the owner to stay clear and cordon off the area. Signup and view all the answers

In what situation must the IC contact the assistant chief for a PSO response?

When a person is in contact with energized lines. Signup and view all the answers

What action should the IC take if there is no fire or arcing present in a dark area?

Cordon off the area and return to service. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended procedure if a vehicle is involved in an MVC with energized lines down?

The person should be instructed to remain in the vehicle until the electrical energy is eliminated by PSO. Signup and view all the answers

When should the IC switch to Subfleet B?

When asking FAO to relay a brief status report to the assistant chief. Signup and view all the answers

What is the priority if there is intermittent arcing from a downed line?

To protect the scene and keep residents informed. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if PSO is delayed on scene for more than an hour?

Contact the assistant chief for an expedited response. Signup and view all the answers

What should the IC advise homeowners if there is a downed line near their property?

To stay clear and remain indoors until help arrives. Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters do when encountering downed electrical lines?

Establish a guard and protect the public. Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes a 'Danger Zone' around damaged electrical lines?

Area that extends one full wire span beyond damaged poles. Signup and view all the answers

How should persons in energized vehicles be instructed?

Stay inside until electrical energy is eliminated. Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken for fires at or near the top of utility poles?

Leave the fire alone and keep persons away from the area. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical consideration when locating downed power lines?

Identifying where the electricity may enter a structure. Signup and view all the answers

What precautions should individuals take when dealing with downed wires in wet conditions?

Extend the danger zone due to wet ground. Signup and view all the answers

When should firefighters feel safe to attempt rescues near electrical hazards?

When the power is off and confirmed by PSO. Signup and view all the answers

What tool can be used safely to assess downed lines before entering a gate?

The TAC stick for checking the situation. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Commercial Occupancies

High-rise buildings often have electrical rooms located on each floor.
Isolating electrical issues to a single floor is crucial to maintain power to the entire building.
Commercial properties may include UPS rooms that provide over 500 volts of DC for temporary power, posing acid release hazards from batteries.

Residential Occupancies

Immediate disconnection of electricity during residential fires is important for safety.
Firefighters must not engage in operations if energized circuits create life safety risks.
Ground ladders should be handled with caution, avoiding electrical service areas and overhead wires.
Signs of electrical issues include flickering lights and appliances giving shocks; the presence of strong electrical odors may indicate overheating equipment.
Thermal Imaging Cameras (TICs) can identify hidden fires and overheating wires.

Response to Downed Lines

Locating downed lines is highly dangerous and can lead to fatalities.
Identify electrical entry points from a safe distance and locate both ends of the downed wire.
Establish a "Danger Zone," extending at least the distance of one wire span beyond the damage.
Persons in energized vehicles should remain inside until the electrical energy is eliminated.
In cases where imminent risks are present, occupants may need to jump clear of the vehicle.
Fires near utility poles should be left alone to avoid hazards related to overhead wires.

Night-Time and Limited Visibility Situations

Advise residents of potential downed lines during low visibility or snow, cordoning off affected areas with caution tape.
Remain on scene to monitor arcing from downed lines but return to service if no further hazards are present.
Notify homeowners of arcing situations, ensuring they stay clear.

Notification of the Assistant Chief

Certain conditions require alerting the Assistant Chief for expedited responses from PSO:
- Prolonged waiting for PSO assistance beyond one hour.
- When individuals are in contact with energized lines.
- Stalled operations due to electrical hazards.
- Vehicle incidents involving energized lines with occupants inside.
- Lines down on busy streets affecting traffic.
The IC should relay status updates to the Assistant Chief over Subfleet communication.

High Call Volume Management

During increased call volumes, prioritize emergency responses and allocate resources effectively.
Precautions must be taken before leaving the scene of an electrical emergency, including notifying homeowners and securing the area with caution tape.

Substation and Underground Vault Response

Firefighting at electric generating stations, substations, or vaults waits for utility agency representatives.
Avoid directing water into manholes or underground electrical fires until approved by authorized personnel.
Once de-energized, electrical equipment fires are treated as conventional Class A or B fuel fires.

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Description

This quiz covers the strategic and tactical considerations outlined in Section 300 of the Tulsa Fire Department's Emergency Operating Guidelines. Focused on commercial occupancies, it emphasizes the importance of electrical room locations and isolation of problems to maintain operational integrity. Test your knowledge on these critical guidelines for fire safety.