Fire Control

1. Fire Control Chapter 12 Essentials B1 Station 6 2002

2. Introduction • Fire Control is the practical and tactical aspect of approaching an emergency • You will learn what your role is, and the and the reasoning behind I.C.’s commands • Simple but swift actions dictate the outcome of the emergency B1 Station 6 2002

3. Agenda • Roles & Responsibilities • Fire Attacks • Suppressing Class A (Structural) Fires • Suppressing Class B Fires • Suppressing Class C Fires • Suppressing Class D Fires • Control of Gas Utilities B1 Station 6 2002

4. Agenda cont. • Fires Involving Bulk Transport and Passenger Vehicles • Fire Company Tactics B1 Station 6 2002

5. Overview • Fire Control is how we should approach an emergency and what safety concerns are present for each situation • Your actions will dictate the level of success B1 Station 6 2002

6. Company Officer Apparatus Driver/Operator Firefighters Direct Attack Indirect Attack Combination Attack B.L.E.V.E. High Voltage Installations Confined Enclosures Fuel Weather Topography Thermal Layering Slope aspect Head Finger Rear Flanks Perimeter Spot Fire Terms B1 Station 6 2002

7. Roles and Responsibilities • Company Officer • This is the leader of the group. The Company officer makes decisions for tactical deployment while assisting and supervising individual members of the company B1 Station 6 2002

8. Roles and Responsibilities • Apparatus Driver/Operator • The driver operator is responsible for the safe operation of the fire apparatus and the safe transportation of the crew to and from the scene. They are also the initial accountability officer, until a permanent person can be assigned accountability. B1 Station 6 2002

9. Roles and Responsibilities • Firefighters • Firefighter perform all the tasks necessary to control an emergency scene. These tasks include operating, hoselines; deploying ladders; and performing search and rescue, salvage and overhaul and many other functions. B1 Station 6 2002

10. Fire Attack • Direct Attack • When firefighter are able to enter the structure or fire area. • The most efficient use of water on free-burning fires is made by an attack on the base of the fire from a close position with a solid or straight stream, applied in short bursts, to avoid the disruption of the Thermal layering. B1 Station 6 2002

11. Fire Attack • Indirect attack • When firefighter are unable to enter the structure or fire area due to intense fire conditions • Not desirable where victims may yet be trapped or where the spread of fire to uninvolved areas cannot be contained. • Hose stream, straight, solid or a narrow fog, directed at the ceiling and swept back and forth, not to disturb the Thermal Layering, and produce steam. B1 Station 6 2002

12. Fire Attack • Combination Attack • Uses the steam generating technique of ceiling level attack combined with a direct attack on materials burning near the floor level. • Nozzle may be moved in a “T” “Z” or “O” pattern starting with a solid straight or penetrating fog stream directed into the heated gasses at the ceiling level then dropped down to attack combustibles burning near the floor level. B1 Station 6 2002

13. Fire Attack Hazards • Imminent building collapse • Fire behind, below or above attack team • Kinks or obstruction to the hoselines • Holes, weak stairs, or other fall hazards • Suspended loads on fire weakened supports • Hazardous or highly flammable commodities likely to spill • Backdraft or Flashover behavior • Electrical Shock hazards • Overexertion, confusion or panic by team members B1 Station 6 2002

14. SuppressingClass A (Structural) Fires • A fire attack must be coordinated to be successful. • Depending on the condition at the fire scene, the fire officer may choose to perform immediate rescue or to protect exposures, rather than attack the fire. • With the proper coordination of ventilation, the entry teams will substantially benefit, aiding with fire attack and rescue by increasing visibility and lessening temperatures. • Entry teams should carry equipment needed to force entry or to perform other tasks. (ie portable light, axe, prying tool, wedges… B1 Station 6 2002

15. SuppressingClass A (Structural) Fires • Before entry the nozzle pattern should be checked, and the air bled from the hoseline. • Any burning fascia, boxed cornices or other doorway overhangs should be extinguished prior to entry. • F/F’s waiting at the entrance should stay low, and out of the doorway until the order to advance is given. • The fire should be approached and attacked from the unburned side to reduce fire spread. • With adequate ventilation a 30° fog pattern can be used, allowing a place for the smoke heat and steam a place to go. If ventilation cannot be done then a straight or solid stream is desired. This will help maintain the thermal layering in the area. B1 Station 6 2002

16. SuppressingClass A (Structural) Fires • Remember not to block the doorways, stand to the side. • Do not open the nozzle until you encounter fire, unless it is used as a protective stream. Discharging water into smoke will decrease visibility and increase water damage. • Use common scene when attacking the fire, the amount of involvement will help you decide the type of attack, either direct, indirect or combination. • Rotation of the fire crews is imperative to F/F safety. • SCBA should be worn during the mop-up and overhaul phases, due to the presence of toxic gases. • Be cautious not to disturb evidence, notify your Captain. B1 Station 6 2002

17. The technique of water application is only successful if the amount of water applied is sufficient to cool the fuels burning. Hoseline selection should be dependant upon fire conditions and other factors such as the following       Volume of water needed for extinguishment Reach Needed Number of people available to handle hose line Mobility requirements Tactical requirements Speed of deployment Potential Fire spread Stream Selection B1 Station 6 2002

18. Suppressing Class B Fires • Class B fires involve flammable and combustible liquids and gases. • Flammable liquids are those that have flash points less than 38 °C (ie gasoline, acetone). • Combustible liquids are those that have flash points higher than 38 ° C (ie. kerosene, vegetable oil). • Flammable and combustible liquids can be further divided into hydrocarbons and polar solvents. Hydrocarbons will not mix with water, while polar solvent will. B1 Station 6 2002

19. Firefighters must exercise caution when attacking fires involving flammable and combustible liquids. They include the following. Avoid standing in pools of the fuel Do not extinguish fires around piping or relief valves unless the supply can be shut off Control all ignition sources Hearing protection may be required In vessels containing flammable liquids be aware of the threat of a B.L.E.V.E. Suppressing Class B Fires B1 Station 6 2002

20. B.L.E.V.E. • Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion • Is a rupture of the tank that results in the explosive release of vessel pressure, pieces of the tank and a characteristic fireball with radiant heat. • Water should be applied to the upper portion of the tank preferably by unmanned nozzles. • Commonly occur when flames contact the vapor space of the flammable liquid vessel and insufficient water is applied to keep the tank cool. B1 Station 6 2002

21. Many Uses of Water • Using water as a cooling agent • To prevent B.L.E.V.E. and to protect exposures • Using water as a mechanical tool • Using the hose stream to move the fuel to a place of safety • Using water as a substitute medium • By filing leaking vessels or pipes with water, run off is a major concern with this method • Using water as a protective cover • By using a fog stream to protect advancing teams to shut off fuel supplies B1 Station 6 2002

22. The techniques of extinguishment for fires in vehicles transporting flammable fuels are similar in many ways to fires in storage facilities. The possibility of vessel failure, and danger to exposures are similar with both, the differences include    Increased life safety to F/F’s from traffic Reduced water supply Difficulty in determining the products involved Difficulty in containing spills and runoff Tanks and piping weakened by the force of the collision Instability of vehicles The surroundings of the incident may poses additional concerns. Fires Involving Bulk TransportAnd Passenger Vehicles B1 Station 6 2002

23. Many problem exist with an incident involving a gas utility and some basic knowledge of these gas utilities is an asset to good fire control. Natural Gas is mostly methane with small quantities of ethane, propane , butane and pentane. Natural gas is non-toxic, but considered an asphyxiation. Natural gas is lighter than air, and has no odor of it’s own, mercaptan is added for the odor. Pressure in the distribution pipes range from 2 kPa to 7000 kPa, however pressure is usually below 350 kPa at the local distribution level. Explosive in a range from 5-15% Control of Gas Utilities B1 Station 6 2002

24. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) or bottled gas as it is sometimes know as. Is a fuel gas stored in a liquid state under pressure. Many of the same features as Natural gas. Heaver than air, generally seeks the lowest point. Explosive in a range between 1.5 to 10%. Fuel shipped in tanks. Containers have the potential for B.L.E.V.E. Approach from an upwind direction. Main concern would be evacuation and elimination of ignition sources. Do not extinguish the flame. Protect exposures Control of Gas Utilitiescont. B1 Station 6 2002

25. Suppressing Class C Fires • F/F’s must be able to control the flow of electricity into structures where emergency operations are being performed. • While high-voltage equipment is usually associated with sever shocks, conventional residential current is sufficiently powerful to deliver fatal shocks. • Controlling the electricity will prevent the risk of injury or fatal shock, reduce the danger of igniting combustibles or accidental equipment start-ups. • Consider all downed wires as live wires B1 Station 6 2002

26. Consequences of electrical shock Cardiac Arrest Ventricular fibrillation Respiratory arrest Involuntary muscle contractions Paralysis Surface or internal burns Damage to joint Ultraviolet are burns to the eyes Factors most affecting seriousness The path of electricity through the body The degree of skin resistance – wet = low, dry = high Length of exposure Available current – amperage Available voltage – force Frequency – AC or DC Suppressing Class C Fires B1 Station 6 2002

27. Suppressing Class C FiresUnderground Lines • Underground transmission systems consist of cable-ways and vaults beneath the surface • The most frequent hazard that these systems present is explosions that may blow manhole covers a considerable distance • F/F’s should not enter a manhole. • Discharge carbon dioxide or dry chemical into the manhole and replace the cover. A wet blanket over the cover will aid in excluding the oxygen and extinguishing the fire. • Commercial high-voltage installations have electrical equipment in excess of 600 volts, and are typically signed on the doors of vaults. B1 Station 6 2002

28. With downed wires a danger zone of one span in either direction Never look at arching electrical lines Wait for trained utility personnel Lockouts should be used working with electrical equipment Full protective equipment should be used Be aware of step potential Do not touch any vehicle or apparatus in contact with electrical wires All downed wires are to be considered live Be aware of conductors, such as a fence. Guidelines For Electrical Emergencies B1 Station 6 2002

29. Suppressing Class D Fires • Combustible metals present the dual problem of burning at extremely high temperatures and being reactive to water. • Water is only effective when it can be supplied in large quantities to cool the metal below is ignition temperature. • Usual method would be to protect exposures and allow the metal to burn itself out. • Combustible metal fires can be recognized by a brilliant white light given off by the fire. • Flames may be invisible once an ash layer is present, do not assume the fire has been extinguished. B1 Station 6 2002

30. Fire Company Tactics • Fire Departments have a predetermined set of plans for nearly every emergency, outlined in SOG’s and other various department policies. • These SOG’s are usually initiated by the first arriving company arriving at the scene. • The procedure is primarily a means to get the fire attack started, but should not replace a good size up, decisions based on professional judgment, evaluation or command. • The need to save lives that are in danger is always the first consideration, then controlling the fire, which includes protecting exposures as well. Lastly F/F’s should make all efforts possible to minimize damage to the structure. • The use of SOG’s reduces confusion and increases efficiency on the fire ground. B1 Station 6 2002

31. Tactics for Fires In Single-Family Dwellings • Fires in single-family dwellings are the most common structural fire scenario wee will face. The rescue, exposure protection, ventilation, confinement and extinguishment functions must be performed in a coordinated way for the operation to be successful. • Typical roles of the first-due engine • Initial report of the scene • Assume I.C. of the scene • Initiate the fire attack and or search and rescue • Possibly lay a supply line B1 Station 6 2002

32. Tactics for Fires In Single-Family Dwellings • Typical roles of the second-due engine company • Unless otherwise directed the second engine company must make sure adequate water supply is established. • Back up initial attack lines • Protect secondary means of egress • Prevent fire extension • Protect the most sever exposures • Assist in extinguishment • Role of the truck company • Responsible for forcible entry, search and rescue, ventilation and securing utilities. • Placement of ground ladders as directed by I.C. • Operation of an aerial master stream B1 Station 6 2002

33. Tactics for Fires In Single-Family Dwellings • Role of the Chief Officer • Upon arrival the chief officer may assume command at that time • He/She will coordinate the overall activities at the scene • Constantly reevaluate the situation and equipment utilized or available. • The need for additional resources should be constantly considered • Assign incoming companies tasks • Coordinate between other entities such as mutual aid units, EMS personnel, and the number of F/F’s at hand. • May assign other personnel as liaison between these other organizations B1 Station 6 2002

34. Tactics for Fires In Upper Levels Of Structures • Usually requires more than two engines and one truck used in the single family dwelling. • Extensive manpower may be required to transport equipment to the level of the building where required. • Elevators should not be relied upon to provide transportation to the fire level. • Fire attack will be coordinated from the floor below the fire, as well as hook up of hoselines to standpipes. • Floor above the fire should be checked for extension • Staging of equipment two floors below the fire • Caution of falling debris from stories above • A Minimum area cordoned off, approx 60 meters. B1 Station 6 2002

35. Tactics for Fire Below Grade In Structures • F/F’s exposed to extremely punishing conditions. • Stairwells have a chimney effect and are usually the only means for smoke and super heated gasses to escape. • Entry preferably after ventilation has been effected. • Once in the basement heat conditions similar to those in a standard structural fire. • Good ventilation techniques are extremely important. • Wide fog pattern may be used to descend the stairwell. • Important to not overlook the attic or highest floor of the building. B1 Station 6 2002

36. Tactics for Fires At Properties Protected By Fixed Fire Extinguishing Systems • F/F’s should be familiar with extinguishing systems in buildings protected by their department. • Support of the system must be established. • Initial attack companies must be immediately committed to victim search or evacuation. • Streams will be unable to reach areas in large undivided or high-rise occupancies. • Water is flowing due to sprinklers operation • Systems are dependant on fire department support for their ability to function. • Tactics require the use of standpipes that are not tied in to water supplies. • Standpipes are supplied by private water sources and pressure is provided by private pumps. B1 Station 6 2002

37. Tactics for Vehicle Fires • Fires should be treated with the same basic care that structural fires are treated with. • Full Protective clothing shall be worn in addition to SCBA. • Fire should be attacked from the uphill/upwind side when possible. • You should extinguish the ground fire around and under the vehicle first and then proceed to attack the remaining fire in the vehicle. • Avoid standing in front or behind vehicles equiped with shock absorbing bumpers. B1 Station 6 2002

38. Tactics for Vehicle Fires • Be aware of the possibility of combustible metals in vehicles. • The use of foam may be required if there is a large spill of fuel • Some vehicles are equipped with propane tanks, large saddle tanks, or carry explosive or hazardous materials. • Military vehicles often carry munitions or other hazardous cargoes. B1 Station 6 2002

39. Tactics for Trash or Dumpster Fires • The possibility of exposure to dangerous by-products of combustion should not be overlooked. • Full protective clothing including SCBA should be used attacking all rubbish fires. • Size of hoseline should be determined by the proximity to exposures. • If an exposure is involved do not overlook the possibility of extension into that structure, standard overhaul techniques can be used to accomplish this. B1 Station 6 2002

40. Tactics for Emergencies in Confined Enclosures • Examples of Confined enclosures include, basements, caves, sewers, storage tanks, and trenches. • Many of the same inherent hazards of confined spaces. • Oxygen deficiencies • Flammable gases or vapors • Toxic gases • Elevated temperatures • In addition physical hazard are present such as • Limited means of entrance and egress • Cave-ins or unstable support members • Deep standing water or other liquids • Utility hazards – electricity, gas, sewage. B1 Station 6 2002

41. Tactics for Emergencies in Confined Enclosures • A life line should be tied to each rescuer before entry. • This life line should be constantly monitored with adequate standby crew, equal in number to the rescuers working inside. • A system of communication should be prearranged as portable radios may prove unreliable. • One method of signaling is the acronym of OATH • O- 1 tug / OK • A- 2 tugs / Advance • T- 3 tugs / Take up • H- 4 tugs / HELP B1 Station 6 2002

42. Tactics for Emergencies in Confined Enclosures • Communication with plant or building supervisors will aid with valuable information, such as hazards present, number of victims and probable location. • The establishment of a command post and staging area is vital to the success of the operation. • A safety officer should be stationed at the entrance to track the entrance of personnel and equipment. Checks include • Members mission & name • Tank pressure • Estimated safe working time • The application of hose streams must be performed with prudent care because of the difficulty of venting generated steam. B1 Station 6 2002

43. Tactics for Emergencies in Confined Enclosures • Fires in confined spaces may also be attacked indirectly with piercing nozzles, cellar nozzles, distributors or high expansion foam. • Special attention to the vertical means of fire spread. • Due to the confinement of heat, firefighters may find they tire more quickly and use SCBA air supply faster. • Entry should be limited to the practical time allowing for the safe margin for retreating. B1 Station 6 2002

44. Wildland Fire Techniques • Wildland fires include fires in weeds, grass, field crops, brush, forest and similar vegetation. • Wildland fires have characteristics of their own that are not comparable to other forms of fire fighting. • Local topography • Fuel type • weather • Once a wildland fire starts, burning is generally continuous. B1 Station 6 2002

45. Wildland Fire Techniques • Fuels are generally classified by grouping together fuels with similar burning characteristics. • Ground fuels • Small twigs, leaves, and needles decomposing on the ground. • Surface fuels • Living surface vegetation includes grass, brush, and other low vegetation. Nonliving surface vegetation includes downed logs, heavy limbs etc…. • Crown fuels • Suspended or upright fuels physically separated from the ground fuels, that air can circulate freely around causing them to burn more readily. B1 Station 6 2002

46. Wildland Fire Techniques Several factors affect the burning characteristics of fuels such as: • Fuel size; Small or light fuels burn faster. • Compactness; Tightly compacted fuels, such as the ground surface type burn slower than the crown fuels. • Continuity; When fuels are close together the fire spreads faster because of heat transfer. • Volume; The amount of fuel present in a given area. Volume will determine the intensity. B1 Station 6 2002

47. Wildland Fire Techniques All aspects of the weather have some effects upon the behavior of a wildland fire. Some factors that influence wildland fire behavior are: • Wind – Fans the flames into greater intensity, medium or large fires may create their own winds. • Temperature – closely related to relative humidity; primarily affects the fuels as a long-term drying. • Relative humidity – The greatest impact is on dead fuels that no longer have any moisture content of their own. • Precipitation – Largely determines the moisture content of live fuels. B1 Station 6 2002

48. Wildland Fire Techniques Topography refers to the lay of the land and has a decided effect upon fire behavior. The steepness of the slope affect both the rate and direction of spread. • Slope aspect – The direction the slope faces, southern or northern exposures • Local terrain features – Obstructions such as ridges, trees and large rock outcroppings may alter air flow and cause turbulence. • Canyons – Result in increased wind velocity. Wind movement can be critical in chutes of steep “V” drainages. These terrain feature create updrafts causing a chimney effect. B1 Station 6 2002

49. Wildland Fire Techniques Parts of a wildland fire • Head – is the part that travels or spreads most rapidly. Usually the key to controlling the fire is to control the head and prevent the formation of a new head. • Finger – Are long narrow strips extending out from the main fire. • Rear – The rear or heel is opposite of the head. • Flanks – Are the sides of the wildland fire. From the flanks is where fingers are formed. A wind shift can change the flank to be the head. • Perimeter – The perimeter is the boundary of the fire. It is the total length of the outside edge of the burning or burnt area. • Spot Fire – Is a fire caused by sparks or embers landing outside the main fire. Spot fires must be extinguished quickly preventing a new head from being formed. B1 Station 6 2002

50. Wildland Fire Techniques Attacking the fire • The method used to attack wildland fires revolve around perimeter control. • Direct and indirect approaches are the two basic methods for attacking wildland fires. • Indirect attack is used at varying distances from the advancing fire to halt its progress. Generally used for fire too hot, too fast or too big • A direct attack is action taken against the flame and involves the physical involvement of trying to extinguish the fire. B1 Station 6 2002