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The exception would be if a blind-shaft elevator were available to take them to the upper floors. When using stairs, hold the door to this ventilation stairway closed on the fire floor until the members are on the roof. If the door is opened, they will be severely exposed and may be overcome. They s...

The exception would be if a blind-shaft elevator were available to take them to the upper floors. When using stairs, hold the door to this ventilation stairway closed on the fire floor until the members are on the roof. If the door is opened, they will be severely exposed and may be overcome. They should clear this stair of any occupants on their way up, directing them to designated stairs for evacuation. In some cases, an alternative approach might be available, landing a team of firefighters directly on the roof by helicopter. This is very difficult during serious high-rise fires because of smoke obscuring the pilot's vision and thermal updrafts that make maneuvering the helicopter very difficult. Landing on a rooftop requires a flat roof structure clear of obstructions such as antennas, but should be investigated and practiced in advance (fig. 18-21).