Ch. 23 Early floor collapse

Question 1

Early floor collapse is sometimes old construction, other times bad renovations.
Most of the time early floor collapse is caused by what?

Answer 1

Rapid failure of pre-engineered floor construction or lightweight truss (Wood trusses and wood I-beams).

Question 2

At a cellar fire at a private dwelling what type of collapse does DUNN say occurs over & over again?

Answer 2

The 1st floor collapsing into the cellar

Question 3

In a finished basement with a ceiling, the ceiling barrier will give the floor supports how many minutes of fire protection?

Answer 3

20 minutes or more

Question 4

When a FF becomes trapped in the cellar of a PD after a 1st floor collapse the Rapid Intervention Team (FAST unit) should place a ground ladder down the collapsed floor opening. Divert a charged hose line and quickly direct it down through the collapsed floor opening. And possibly place a ground ladder over the opening to support rescuers approaching the collapse area. What can be simultaneously done in addition to rescue attempts from above?

Answer 4

Simultaneous rescue should be attempted from adjacent spaces such as adjoining bldg.’s, cellar rooms or any horizontal opening.

Question 5

Use caution after a floor collapse-if the deck around the floor collapse opening has sloped and tilted downward there could be what type of effect according to DUNN?

Answer 5

“Slide” effect

Question 6

For lightweight wood truss or wood I-beam structures when there is a content fire we will use our standard firefighting procedures. When the fire includes the actual structure what does DUNN say we should do?

Answer 6

Remove occupants and conduct exterior firefighting procedures