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01-01-2010 Fire/Rescue Newsletter |
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Fire Rescue Newsletter - January '10
There are two general types of buildings that when on fire, need to be treated differently in order to successfully combat them. Open structures feature multiple entry and exit points, allowing firefighters greater maneuverability and versatility. Most single family homes are open, and most fires are in single family homes, so as a result most training is dedicated to open structures. This may well be a mistake.
Enclosed structure fires take place in buildings with limited entry and exit points, and are responsible for an increasing number of multiple-firefighter fatalities. A big part of the problem is the fact that firefighters aren’t prepared for this kind of fire – there is a lack of proper training, no specific guidelines exist, and most firefighters lack experience in these kinds of fires. Often firefighters get lost or disoriented in these types of fires, and when conditions deteriorate undetected, things can go south fast. Asphyxiation is the chief cause of death in these types of fires.
One of the problems with this situation is that most firefighters rely on their low air alarm - which goes off at 25% air pressure remaining - to know when it’s time to exit the building. In open structures when the firefighter knows their position, this is usually fine, but in large, enclosed structures, the limitations of this method become apparent. Conventional wisdom states that when the low air alarm goes off they have approximately five minutes of air remaining, but this is an estimation and varies based on a number of factors. In a crisis situation, Rapid Intervention Teams can assist, but often they either won’t make it in time or won’t be able to save the firefighters without backup.
A number of changes could be made to the air supply system itself but in the meantime, air management procedures should be enacted. One of the most obvious things is to simply keep an eye on your air supply at all times and be aware of your limitations. Consumption-rate testing for each firefighter will help to determine how fast each firefighter consumes their air supply so they can plan around that knowledge. Planning specifically for enclosed structures is important too – instead of exiting at 25%, give yourself twice as long to account for the situation. And if possible, consider the structure itself and access to it before entering and making an aggressive interior attack.
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