Commercial, Townhouse, Rowhouse

Question 1

How many floors does a townhouse typically have?

Answer 1

2 to 4

pg.2

“Townhouses range from two to four or more floors in height and may be different in height from front to rear (i.e., two floors on the front and three floors on the rear or vice versa)”

Question 2

Define a back to back townhouse?

Answer 2

a townhouse with 2 or more occupancies under 1 roof.

pg.3

“A “back-to-back” is a townhouse consisting of two or more occupancies under one roof connected by the Side Charlie wall.”

Question 3

Define a piggy back townhouse?

Answer 3

2 stacked dwellings (1 over the other) each with a seperate address and entrance.

pg.4

“A piggyback townhouse consists of two stacked dwellings (one over the other), each with a separate address and entrance. These occupancies share a common floor separated by a fire wall on that floor. The figure shows the piggyback townhouse from Side Alpha (left upper), Side Charlie (right upper) and a cross-section diagram (lower).”

Question 4

Define an over-under townhouse?

Answer 4

Two stacked dwellings

one over the other with entrances on opposite sides

Two level occupancies over one level occupancies

pg.5

”: An over-under is a townhouse consisting of two stacked dwellings (one over the other). These are usually two-level occupancies over one-level occupancies with entrances on opposite sides, but other floor plan variations may exist. The figure shows the over- under townhouse from Side Alpha (left upper), Side Charlie (right upper) and a cross- section diagram (lower).”

Question 5

Define a rowhouse?

Answer 5

Multi story dwelling attached to at least 2 other dwellings

May or may not be separated by firewalls

Common cockloft under a flat roof

pg.6

“A rowhouse is a multi-story dwelling attached to at least two other dwellings. These dwellings may or may not be separated by fire walls. Typically a rowhouse will have a common cockloft under a flat roof. The figure shows the rowhouse from Side Alpha (top), and Side Charlie (bottom).”

Question 6

Define a duplex?

Answer 6

Two dwellings under one roof sharing a common wall?

pg.7

“A duplex is two dwellings under one roof sharing a common wall. The figure shows the duplex from Side Alpha (top), and a cross section (bottom).”

Question 7

Define a quad?

Answer 7

4 dwellings together under one roof separate addresses

May have entrances on 4 different sides

pg.8

“A quad is four dwellings connected together, under one roof, with separate addresses. A quad may have entrances on four different sides.”

Question 8

A townhouse is typically what type of construction?

Answer 8

Light weight frame using platform frame method

Vertical fire extension limited due to platform frame and fire stopping

pg.10

“Townhouse construction is typically lightweight frame using the platform frame method. Vertical fire extension in the walls is limited due to the platform frame and fire stopping.”

Question 9

Define a hybrid?

Answer 9

Various types under one roof?

pg.9

“A hybrid is a building construction style that can be inclusive of various types of townhouse styles (piggyback, back-to-back, and over-under) under one roof. The figure shows the duplex from Side Charlie (top), and a diagram showing the five different occupancies (bottom).”

Question 10

What type homes are usually made of ordinary construction?

Answer 10

duplexes and rowhouses.

many old townhouses have ballon-frame construction.

pg.10

“Ordinary construction is usually found in duplexes and rowhouses. Many very old townhouses may have balloon-frame construction.”

Question 11

Roof frames are of what basic types?

Answer 11

Lightweight or wood frame

pg.10

“The roof frames are of two basic types: lightweight or wood frame.”

Question 12

Lightweight roof construction?

Answer 12

pg.10

“Lightweight – Triangular trusses that rest on the top floor load-bearing and non-load- bearing walls, or parallel chord trusses or plywood I-beams forming the peak from the front and rear load-bearing walls to a ridge pole.”

Question 13

Roof deck construction?

Answer 13

pg.10

“Over the trusses is usually 4’ x 8’ plywood sheathing or particleboard.”

Question 14

Noteworthy

Answer 14

pg.11

“On flat roof townhouses, may be a gypsum roof board that is integrated with fiberglass. (These types of boards are often referred to as Securock or DensDeck boards).”

Question 15

Noteworthy

Answer 15

pg.11

“Over sawn wood rafters is usually plywood sheathing or may occasionally be 1” x 4” or 1” x 6” boards nailed perpendicular to the rafters. The covering will usually be asphalt shingles, slate, and occasionally wood shingles are used.”

Question 16

Are FR (fire retardant) plywood roofs safe?

Answer 16

no.

pg.11

“The integrity of an FR plywood roof should be considered to be unsafe even before a fire occurs.”

Question 17

Townhouses constructed in the 80s typically had what type of roof deck?

Answer 17

Fire retardant plywood sheathing roof deck. Later determined defective due to early decomposition.

pg.11

“Many townhouses constructed during the 1980s have fire retardant (FR) plywood sheathing roof deck. Much of this FR plywood was later determined to be defective due to early decomposition. Some was replaced, but companies should suspect the presence of FR plywood and use caution during fireground operations”

Question 18

Townhouse roofs are typically what style?

Answer 18

Pitched and occasionally gabled.

Can also include flat or mansard.

pg.11

“Roof styles can include flat or mansard but typically they are pitched and occasionally gabled.”

Question 19

Safety requirements for rooftop ventilation

Answer 19

Must be supported by use of a roof ladder or aerial device.

pg.11

“The roof is usually steep enough to require working from a roof ladder or aerial device. Crews ordered to perform rooftop ventilation in lightweight construction must be independently supported by the use of a roof ladder or aerial device.”

Question 20

Does the presence of a dormer indicate a finished attic?

Answer 20

No.

pg.11

“The presence of a dormer does not always indicate a finished attic. The dormer may be false, only attached to the exterior roof surface and not connected to the attic.”

Question 21

How are attics accessed?

Answer 21

a scuttle or pull down stairs, may be inside a bathroom or closet

pg.11

“Attics, if present, are usually unfinished and may be used for storage by occupants. Access to this space may be through a scuttle or pull-down stairs located somewhere in the top floor ceiling, including inside a bathroom or a closet. This space may also be the location of water heaters and HVAC units. In some cases, the attic may serve as living space.”

Question 22

In lieu of an attic townhouses may have what instead?

Answer 22

top floor vaulted ceiling or loft.

pg.11

“In lieu of an attic, townhouses may have a top floor vaulted ceiling or a loft. There may be flooring in the attic that will make application of fire streams from the floor below difficult.”

Question 23

Are attics usually finished or unfinished?

Answer 23

unfinished

pg.11

“Attics, if present, are usually unfinished and may be used for storage by occupants.”

Question 24

Attic Space Use

Answer 24

storage, location of water heaters, HVAC units. May serve as living space

pg.11

“Attics, if present, are usually unfinished and may be used for storage by occupants. Access to this space may be through a scuttle or pull-down stairs located somewhere in the top floor ceiling, including inside a bathroom or a closet. This space may also be the location of water heaters and HVAC units. In some cases, the attic may serve as living space.”

Question 25

Are crews allowed to work on upper floors in presence of lightweight construction?

Answer 25

yes.

pg.11

“Because of interior compartmentalization, crews may work on upper floors in the presence of lightweight truss construction. Working from a hallway or bathroom provides greater safety than working from large open areas.”

Question 26

Wall Characteristics

Answer 26

• dimensional lumber
• 2 x 4 in size
• load bearing or non load bearing
• Occasional lightweight aluminum studs may be found in non-lead bearing walls
• interior walls usually covered w/gypsum or lath and plaster
• knee walls found in units w/ lofts and dormers will contain voids may serve as storade area
• knee walls may contain fire/check early fo extension

PG.11

”

Walls will be constructed of dimensional lumber, 2” x 4” in size, and may be load bearing or non-load bearing. Occasionally, lightweight aluminum studs may be found in non-load bearing walls.

All interior walls are typically covered with gypsum or lath and plaster.

Knee walls will be found in units with lofts and dormers and will contain voids or may serve as a storage area. Knee walls may contain hidden fire, and must be opened early to check for fire extension,”

Question 27

Foundation walls are of what construction?

Answer 27

either masonry block or poured reinforced concrete monolithic

pg.12

“Foundation walls are either masonry block or a poured reinforced concrete monolithic (cast-in- place) wall.”

Question 28

Wall characteristics

Answer 28

Exterior walls may be covered with brick veneer, wood, aluminum, or vinyl siding over a thin layer of insulating sheathing. In the case of aluminum or vinyl siding, it can be easily breached. Exterior walls may also be load bearing in ordinary construction.

Question 29

Insulation Characteristics

Answer 29

pg.12

“Insulation can be rolled fiberglass, blown-in rock wool, or blown-in cellulose. Insulation will be found in attics, exterior walls and, in some structures, the interior walls.”

Question 30

Firewalls

Answer 30

 Non-existent.
 Located between each address.
 Located between every other address.
 Between occupied livings spaces and does not extend into the attics or basements.

Question 31

Noteworthy

Answer 31

pg.13

“Masonry firewalls can be seen from the exterior if parapets extend through the roof or may stop at the underside of the roof deck. Rooflines may be offset at each address to accomplish separating the attic spaces. Familiarity of buildings in each respective response district, especially during construction, will provide knowledge of the type and location of firewalls. Firewalls might be penetrated to allow the running of utilities.”

Question 32

What are firewalls constructed of?

Answer 32

masonry or gypsum on both sidesof the wall studs

pg.12

Firewalls are constructed of two types:

Masonry or

Gypsum on both sides of the wall studs

Question 33

Floor deckings are usually made of what?

Answer 33

wood (boards) or wood composite (plywood or chipboard).

decking may be covered w/ carpet and pad, tile (masonry or vinyl), or wood.

pg.13

“Floor decking is usually wood (boards) or wood composite (plywood or chipboard). The decking may be covered with carpet and pad, tile (masonry or vinyl), or wood. The decking material will be laid on sawn wood joists, parallel chord trusses, or plywood I- beams. These joists, trusses, or beams will be spaced from 16 to 24 inches on center.”

Question 34

Floor joist can be in what direction?

Answer 34

side to side

or

front to rear

pg.13

“Floor joist direction can be side-to-side or front-to-rear. If front-to-rear, an unfinished basement may have an unprotected steel girder and Lolly columns supporting the floor above, which presents a collapse hazard when exposed to fire. If side-to-side, joists may be supported on the basement load-bearing walls.”

Question 35

Whats the most common style of window used in townhouses today?

Answer 35

double hung, sliding stash

pg.13

“The most common style of window used in townhouses today is a double-hung, sliding sash type. The glazing may be of single, double, or triple thickness. Other styles of windows may be found and should be noted during pre-planning and size-up opportunities.”

Question 36

What special hazard do casement windows make?

Answer 36

entrance and exit is physically blocked by steel frame set in concrete.

pg.13

“Casement windows create a special hazard. The windows have steel frames set in concrete or masonry. While breaking all the glass in the windows will ventilate the affected area, entrance and exit through the remaining window frame is physically blocked; the window must be opened by lifting a latch and rotating a crank. Removing the frame with force will be very difficult under adverse conditions and would require the use of heavy forcible entry tools. Firefighters should note these windows in their size-up upon arrival at a structure fire. Casement windows should be treated as if they were a barred window and must be completely removed.”

Question 37

Exterior doors on residential townhouses may made of what materials?

Answer 37

solid wood, composite, insulated metal, or wood panel.

pg.`13

“Exterior doors on residential townhouses may be solid wood, composite, insulated metal, or wood panel. In addition, you may find sliding glass or French doors in the rear. Commercial townhouses may have a tempered glass door in the front. Exterior doors are inward opening on residential and outward opening on commercial.”

Question 38

Inward opening swinging doors typically lead to what rooms?

Answer 38

bedrooms and bathrooms

pg.13

“Interior doors are commonly hollow-core wood doors. Inward opening doors are typically found leading to bedrooms and bathrooms. Outward opening doors usually lead to basement stairs or closets.”

Question 39

What are the 2 standard locks on exterior doors?

Answer 39

mortise and rim

pg.13

“There are two standard locks on exterior doors: mortise and rim.”

Question 40

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 40

STAIRS

• allow spread of products of fire/combustion to floors above
• may be steep,narrow or spiral and could inhibit hoseline advancement/rescue
• require hoseline protection, maintaining access/egress routes
• most are stacked.
• storage under basement stairs is common. Can lead to quick collapse
• in commerical townhouse the stairwell will be enclosed. door may or may not be at the top of basement stairs

pg.14

“One of the most notable construction features in residential townhouses is the open stairway. Open stairs allow quick spread of fire and products of combustion to floors above. Some townhouses have steep, narrow, or spiral stairways to other levels that may inhibit hoseline advancement and rescue operations. Stairs require hoseline protection to maintain access and egress routes. Firefighters should remember, in most cases, the stairways are stacked. Storage under basement stairs is common. These stairs can be unfinished on the underside. A fire originating in this storage area can quickly lead to the collapse of the stairs. In commercial townhouses the stairwell will be enclosed. A door may or may not be found at the top of the basement stairs. If present, this will slow the spread of fire and its products to upper floors.”

Question 41

Townhouse Fire Protection Features

Answer 41

sprinkler systems, fire department connections, alarm systems.

pg.14

“Townhouses can be found with fire protection features that could include sprinkler systems, fire department connections, and alarm systems.”

Question 42

Chimneys

Answer 42

”

Chimneys can be either masonry with a tile flue, or wood-framed with a metal flue. The metal flue, also known as a zero clearance or pre-fabricated chimney, is a galvanized metal pipe in a wood-framed chimney with siding on the exterior. The wood-framed chimney can be non-fire stopped and interconnected to adjoining floor/ceiling voids. FIRE SPREAD TO ATTACHED OCCUPANCIES IS LIKELY WHERE OCCUPANCIES USE A COMMON CHIMNEY (DUPLEXES, QUADS, PIGGYBACKS).”

Question 43

The area above the garage is normally what?

Answer 43

finished living space.

pg.14

“The interior walls of the garage that are attached to the living space of the townhouse must be rated including the door, doorframe, and hardware. The area above the garage is normally finished living space. A vehicle or contents fire in a garage will allow for rapid-fire extension to other areas of the structure. The presence of a finished living area over the garage presents a serious life hazard. The overhead entrance door to the garage and its mounting hardware will not be fire-rated. These types of doors are known to collapse when left open and exposed to fire.”

Question 44

What type of fire loading do these occupanices have?

Answer 44

a low fire rating. Fire flow estimates of 10 to 100 gpm per 100 sq feet of involved area.

pg.15

“The use of combustible interior finishes and the type of furnishings found within these structures, contributes to the fire loading. Generally, these types of occupancies are considered to have a relatively low fire loading. Fire flow estimates will be based on a flow rate of 10 gpm per 100 square feet of involved area. Therefore, attack lines should be 1 3⁄4 inches in size.”

Question 45

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 45

pg.15

“Vinyl and asphalt siding may contribute to vertical and horizontal fire spread and can create a severe exposure problem.”

Question 46

What type of material are most townhomes constructed of?

Answer 46

lightweight material

pg.15

“In general, most modern townhouses are constructed of lightweight materials and methods that do not withstand degradation from fire exposure for long periods of time.”

Question 47

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 47

PG.16

“A masonry veneer wall can fall outward the distance of the height of the wall.”

Question 48

Which has the highest potential for life lost residential occupancies or commercial occupancies?

Answer 48

residential occupancies

pg.17

“Life safety is the highest priority at all structure fires. However, the potential for life loss is most prominent in residential occupancies.”

Question 49

When is there a need for roof openings?

Answer 49

when fire’s in the attic or in vertical void space

pg.17

“The need for roof openings typically will only be required when the fire has entered the attic area or has gained access to vertical void spaces. Wood frame construction provides the needed support to accomplish rooftop ventilation.”

Question 50

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 50

PG.17

“Lightweight construction does not provide the support necessary and may result in early collapse. Crews ordered to perform rooftop ventilation in lightweight construction must be independently supported by the use of an aerial device or a roof ladder.”

Question 51

Cues for a 2nd alarm

Answer 51

pg.17

 Known rescues
 Fire in two separate occupancies
 Fire on more than one level of the townhouse

 Fire in attic space

Question 52

What’s a tanker task force and when do you need it?

Answer 52

a tanker task force is

3 tankers

1 engine

1 battalion chief

Needed when in an area without a hydrant

pg.18

The assigned resources for fires in townhouses in areas without hydrants should be modified to include a Tanker Task Force early into the incident:

3 Tankers
1 Engine Company

1 Battalion Chief

Question 53

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 53

pg.18

“When reports of occupants trapped are received, the assigned resources should be modified to include ALS units, if not already dispatched. When multiple victims are reported additional resources shall be considered.

Utility-fueled fires will require the assistance of the involved utility company and the IC should request these resources as early as possible when the need is determined.”

Question 54

Delays and changes in the arrival order should be communicated on what channel?

Answer 54

Tactical channel

pg.18

“Units encountering delays in responding should communicate this immediately, along with changes in arrival order that will affect assignments. This should be addressed on the tactical channel so incoming units can be made aware.”

Question 55

1st Engine positioning/tactics

Answer 55

• position allowing for rapid hoseline advancement
• leave priority to position for truck. may have to pull 2 addresses past involved unit
• if truck enters from opposite direction, the engine may have o stop 2 addresses short

pg.19

“First engine – After viewing as many sides as possible, the first engine company should park in a position to allow for rapid advancement of hoselines into the structure, leaving priority position for the truck company. In most cases this will mean the first engine pulls at least two addresses past the involved unit. If the truck is entering the block from the opposite direction, it is imperative that the engine stop at least two addresses short of the involved unit. The following shall be communicated via radio: on-scene report, layout, size-up, 360 ̊ lap, and situation report. Primary actions will be deployment of initial attack line, search as the line is advanced.”

Question 56

2nd engine responsibilities

Answer 56

• water supply
• first line assistance
• deploy 2nd line

pg.19

“Second engine – The second engine should ensure a water supply, ensure first line is operational, and deploy the second line.”

Question 57

3rd engine responsibilities

Answer 57

• position opposite the 1st engine
• secondary water supply
• side charlie inspection/report findings

pg.19

“Third engine – The third engine shall position to allow the crew rapid access to the structure while maintaining access and egress to the incident for additional resources. The engine should take a position to prepare for providing a secondary water supply and visual inspection of side Charlie and report findings to command, check for fire extension, and possible exposure line. If rear access is not available, the third-arriving engine should position at the end of the row closest to the involved unit to ensure hoselines can be placed to the rear. Allow space for the second-arriving truck if needed.”

Question 58

4th engine responsibilities

Answer 58

• position out the way
• dont block access/egress
• RIT
• may be assigned to water supply

pg.19

“Fourth engine – The fourth engine shall position out of the way, so as to not block access for incoming trucks and assume the position of RIT. If needed, the driver may be assigned to supply water to the third engine.”

Question 59

1st truck responsibilities

Answer 59

• position allowing for rapid ladder deployment/entry
• anticipate aerial use
• position turntable in front of unit or upwind from involved area
• force entry/ search/ coordinated ventilation

pg.19

“First truck – The first truck should position at the most strategic location that will allow for rapid placement of ladders and entry into the structure. Use of the aerial should also be anticipated, and the turntable positioned either directly in front of the involved unit or upwind from the involved area. Other duties will be to force entry, conduct a primary search, and coordinated ventilation.”

Question 60

2nd truck responsibilities

Answer 60

• position in rear
• when no rear access position side alpha in front of uncovered exposure
• ground ladders

pg.19

“Second truck – The second truck should position in the rear or in a position to cover the rear. When there is no access to the rear, the additional truck should position on Side Alpha in front of the uncovered exposure. Ground ladders and truck operations in the rear will remain a priority.”

Question 61

Rescue squad responsibilities

Answer 61

• position allowing for rapid access without blocking other units
• search/rescue
• may be need for forcing entry/coordinated ventialtion/ground laddering

pg.19

“Rescue squad – The rescue squad should position that affords rapid access to the structure, but does not block other companies. Primary responsibility is search and rescue, however if that task is being accomplished by another unit they may be needed for forcing entry, coordinated ventilation, or ground laddering.”

Question 62

Initial EMS crews duties

Answer 62

pg.20

”

The EMS crew should be assigned to initial EMS duties. The crew should assemble their EMS equipment onto a stretcher and proceed to an area that provides rapid access to potential civilian or uniformed members needing treatment. The crews should also canvas the crowd for injured victims. During townhouse fires, EMS apparatus should position down the street or on an adjacent street with a clear egress path should transport become necessary.

If the EMS unit is staffed with members trained as firefighters, the crew should have their protective clothing and SCBA with them.

A dedicated EMS unit should be considered for the treatment of responders early in the incident. This unit should be positioned in a manner that will provide access to equipment and emergency egress should transport become necessary.”

Question 63

1st chief officer and 2nd chief officer positioning

Answer 63

pg.20

“The first chief officer shall position the vehicle without blocking firefighting units, but in a position that will allow effective command of the incident.

The second chief officer should position the vehicle without blocking firefighting units in a position to support command and report to the Incident Commander with their full PPE including SCBA.”

Question 64

Water Supply

Answer 64

• 1st engine lay supply line
• when hydrant is in front of involved house use LDH

pg.21

“When dispatched for a fire in a townhouse, the first-arriving engine will lay adequate supply line(s) to establish the water supply for fire attack. The location and method of the hose lay should be communicated to the second-arriving engine company.

Often, the forward lay of a supply line is sufficient. If the street is wide enough, the officer shall ensure the line is laid on one side of the street to maintain apparatus access. Often, however, the line must be laid in the center of a narrow street, as is often found in townhouse complexes, so the truck company can straddle it while moving into position.”

When the hydrant is in front of the fire unit, using LDH (or two 3-inch supply lines) to connect directly to the hydrant allows the first due engine to position either two addresses past or two addresses short of the involved unit.

A common problem in townhouse complexes is the water supply engine blocking access to the street when spotting the hydrant. This can prevent other units from gaining access to the scene. When the second engine is connecting to the hydrant, consider the use of a section of LDH to connect to the hydrant (or two 3-inch supply lines).

Third- and fourth-due engine officers must be cognizant of the need for a secondary water supply and identify the location of additional hydrants and alternative sources of water.

Question 65

On-scene report

Answer 65

• location/side of building
• what’s evident
• occuapancy type/floors
• exposure concerns
• occupant status

pg.22

”

On-scene Report

The on-scene report gives the initial arriving company officer the opportunity to gather more detailed information. The on-scene report should paint an image of the building type and conditions upon arrival to other incoming units. The on-scene report should be concise, but provide sufficient information to incoming units to permit for proper apparatus placement and crew deployment. Information provided in the on-scene report should include: position of first- arriving apparatus (side of the building), what is evident upon arrival, occupancy type, and exposure concerns. (Refer to the Command Officer Operations Manual.)”

Question 66

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 66

pg.22

“interior tactics shall not commence until a report from Side Charlie is received.”

Question 67

What does CAN stand for?

Answer 67

Conditions, actions, needs.

pg.23

It is incumbent on the officers that are involved in an interior fire attack to keep the IC informed on the outcome of the fire attack. The IC needs to know the progression of fire extinguishment, number of victims and progress of removal, status of the building (holes in flooring, collapse potential, etc.), and the need for additional resources to mitigate the incident. Ongoing size-up will continue after the fire is knocked down with the intent of informing the IC of overhaul and salvage operations, CO levels in the structure, and any other pertinent issues that the IC may require.

An easy way to answer or transmit a progress report is the CAN report; CAN stands for Conditions, Actions, and Needs. By using this report model, the person giving the report easily identifies how well the team is doing, the conditions faced, and any support or resource needs.

C – Conditions A – Actions
N – Needs

Question 68

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 68

PG.23

 Construction type
o Fire Resistive allowing for limited fire spread
o Ordinary Construction, concerns for collapse potential
o Lightweight Construction, issue of rapid fire growth and increased collapse

potential

Question 69

360 lap

Answer 69

pg.23/24

o Elevation of structure (front vs. rear)

o Location and extent of fire(identify the lowest level of smoke and fire)

o Ventilation status
o Access and egress points
o Victim location

Question 70

Forcible entry is who’s responsibility?

Answer 70

1st due truck or rescue

pg.24

“The first-arriving engine will normally accomplish entry on its own. However, the forcible entry task, when needed, remains the responsibility of the first due truck or rescue.”

Question 71

What’s the purposeof a line above a fire?

Answer 71

Protect company doing primary research and to extinguish vertical extension.

pg.25

“Officers should consider an additional hoseline for operations above the fire. There are two purposes of the line above the fire. The first is to protect the company doing the primary search of the floor above and the second is to extinguish vertical extension.”

Question 72

Enclosed eaves are usually an extension of what?

Answer 72

The attic.

pg.25

“Eaves are a common structural feature of townhouses that extend the ends of rafters or trusses of a pitched roof over exterior walls. Eaves are often enclosed by nailing a fascia (board) to the ends of rafters or trusses and a soffit to the underside. Enclosed eaves are usually an extension of the attic, making it very vulnerable to auto exposure.”

Question 73

Noteworthy

Answer 73

pg.25

“Soffit vents provide a direct path for fire to enter the attic. Smoke pushing from soffit vents of an overhang is an indication that fire may have extended to or exist in the attic.

Wash the underside of the soffit by directing a straight stream close and parallel to the wall. This will provide maximum protection to soffits and prevent the stream from entering the window and striking the firefighters engaged in an interior attack. Directing a stream from this position will also protect soffits from a deck or rear porch fire. Additionally, water striking the underside of the overhang will cascade down the wall to extinguish burning exterior siding.

Put master stream devices at corners of the building and not directly at the building, utilizing a sweeping motion when flowing water.”

Question 74

How do you perform a soffit attack?

Answer 74

match your stream with the angle/pitch of the roof and flow under the gutter and through the soffit

pg.25

“Attic fires can be rapidly knocked down from the exterior upon arrival using the soffit attack, Figure 11. To employ this method, the engine company will match their stream with the angle/pitch of the roof and flow under the gutter and through the soffit. A 21⁄2-inch smoothbore provides an effective reach and penetration from the exterior of the structure. It may be necessary to use ground ladders to gain access to the soffit to provide a more effective means of extinguishment.”

Question 75

Deck Fire

Answer 75

pg.26

“In the event of a deck fire, the priority should be to get a hoseline on the deck side of the structure to extinguish the deck, the soffit, and eaves. If it is found that the deck is still structurally sound, the first engine may access the fire building through Side Charlie with the handline to check for extinguishment and fire extension investigation. It is okay to go from the burned portion of the structure to the unburned portion in this situation.”

Question 76

Mandatory actions for exterior fires extending into the dwelling:

Answer 76

• 1st line knocksdown exterior fire in sweeping fashion
• 2nd line to the interior
• once exterior is knocked redeploy line to interior

pg.27

“The first hoseline is deployed to the fire location on the exterior of the structure to perform a quick knockdown of the fire in a sweeping fashion. Crews must use caution not to flow water into windows or doors whenever hoselines are operated from the exterior. This tactic may force fire and the products of combustion into the dwelling toward the occupants.

Once the first hoseline is in place and operating effectively, the second line should be deployed to the interior of the dwelling. The crew must inspect the ceiling area and the floor condition at the point of entry. The use of a thermal imaging camera is highly recommended, Figure 12. This line will extinguish any fire within the dwelling and protect the occupants and the companies operating on the interior. In order to be successful more than one handline may be required.

Once fire is knocked down on the exterior of the dwelling, the hoseline may be re- deployed to the interior to assist the interior line or progress to upper floors to attack any fire.

The coordination of tactics and operations between the first engine and the special service units or additional engine companies must be completed before the special service units can enter the building.”

Question 77

How many lines does a basement fire require?

Answer 77

at least 2.

pg.28

“The objective is to prevent the fire from extending vertically through containment and extinguishment. This will require two lines. THE NEED FOR BOTH LINES TO BE COORDINATED AND RAPIDLY GET INTO POSITION IS OF UTMOST IMPORTANCE. Effective and coordinated ventilation of the basement and upper floors is necessary to support the fire attack.”

Question 78

Initial Basement Fire handline placement

Answer 78

rear/exterior

front door protecting interior stairs

pg.28

It is incumbent on the first arriving engine company officer to identify where the handline will be deployed in a manner that best addresses the immediate needs of the incident. The location of the initial handline may be:

To the rear/exterior basement access to commence fire attack, or

To the front door to protect the interior stairs and upper floor(s).

Question 79

On a basemen fire where is the preferred point of attack?

Answer 79

Exterior access point leading to the basement.

pg.28

“The decision of where to deploy this line must be communicated on the operations channel.

The preferred point of attack for the initial handline is an exterior access point that leads directly into the basement. This stream should be a straight or solid stream to avoid forcing heat, products of combustion, and steam up into the first floor.”

Question 80

Basement fire handline placements

Answer 80

• 2 lines on the fire
• a line covering the 1st floor and protecting interior stairs
• Do not operate above basement without a handline unless there is a confirmed life hazard.

pg.28

“The objective is to prevent the fire from extending vertically through containment and extinguishment. This will require two lines. The need for both lines to be coordinated and rapidly get into position is of utmost importance.

A line must be stretched to the front door to contain the fire and protect any occupants and searching firefighters. This line can cover the first floor and protect the interior stairs. Crews should not operate above the basement without the protection of this handline unless there is a confirmed life hazard, Figure 13.”

Question 81

If the integrity of the first floor is compromised, where should you’re line be positioned?

Answer 81

Position of safety close to entrance door.

pg.28

“If the integrity of the first floor is compromised, the line should be positioned in a position of safety close to the entrance door. This change in hoseline and crew position should be communicated to command.”

Question 82

If the basement door cannot be closed, is non-existent, or burned through how do you contain the fire?

Answer 82

Using a narrow fog pattern aimed to the ceiling over the stairway to contain the fire.

pg.29

“The door to the basement should be closed, if feasible. If the basement door cannot be closed, is non-existent, or burned through, use a narrow fog pattern aimed at the ceiling over the stairway to contain the fire. It is imperative that this narrow fog stream is NOT directed downward into the stairwell. The main objective of this line is to stop vertical fire extension.”

Question 83

When advanced fire conditions are encountered and an exterior entrance is not present, the fire should be knocked down from outside the basement. This can be accomplished by:

Answer 83

• Fire stream through basement window
• Remove the bank board and apply a straight or solid stream.
• Extend a window cut an additional foot or two
• Use a cellar nozzle

pg.29

 Applying a fire stream into the basement through a window opening, Figure 14.

 Removing the band board on the exterior. In most cases, this stream should be a straight or solid stream. The band board area is where the floor joists for the first floor meet the exterior wall. In the case of a well-involved basement, dark smoke may be pushing from this area. Opening this area in buildings of lightweight construction can normally be accomplished with hand tools or a chainsaw.

 Extend a window cut down an additional foot or two, the same band-board access point will be provided. This also creates another access/egress point which may be used later in the fire.

 Deploying a Bresnan Distributor Nozzle (may also be known as a cellar nozzle) from the exterior into the structure, placing the nozzle through a hole over the immediate fire area is preferred and most effective. Personnel must be proficient in the deployment and operation of this nozzle if it is used.

“Officers must ensure that no firefighters have entered the basement. The primary purpose of the steam generated through the aforementioned methods is to extinguish the fire. If extinguishment is not possible, the fire must be knocked down so entry can be made from the interior stairs.”

Question 84

If no exterior basement entrance or opening exists, and all other methods have been considered, where should you attack a basement fire?

Answer 84

The interior basement stairs maybe the only option.

pg.30

“If no exterior basement entrance or opening exists, and all other methods have been considered, an attack via the interior basement stairs may be the only option. Again, if the basement is well involved, every effort should be made to knock down the fire. Under these circumstances, the officer will need to determine if it is safe to attempt going down the basement stairs for a direct attack on the fire. The officer must carefully evaluate the structural stability, life hazard, and the fire and heat conditions at the top of the stairs. Good judgment must be exercised in deciding if it is safe to proceed down the stairs. In this case, a second handline must be in place and ready before fire attack, Figure 15.”

Question 85

noteworthy

Answer 85

pg.31

“When attempting to access the basement stairs in some townhouses the proximity of the basement door and the rear door can prove to be a hindrance. When the rear door is opened it swings towards the interior basement door. Conversely, if the basement door is opened first and companies attempt to enter the rear door their access will be blocked, Figure 16. Personnel should remove one of the doors to aid in the movement of the hoselines.”

Question 86

Fire in ballom frame construction cosiderations:

Answer 86

• Check for early vertical extension.
• Expect fire to extend to all floors and attic.
• Removal of siding, deploy handlines upper floors

pg.32

“Should the fire building be of balloon-frame construction, early attention should be given to checking for vertical extension through the stud bays in the exterior walls. Fire should be expected to extend to all floors and the attic. Early attention should be given to the removal of siding as well as deployment of additional hand lines to upper floors to check for vertical extension.”

Question 87

Do water streams push fire your through a building?

Answer 87

No.

pg.32

Garage Fires

“Knock down visible fire from the exterior and a coordinated interior attack may be initiated to extinguish the fire and any extension. Water streams do not push fire through a building, a misconception that has been disproven by national scientific studies.”

Question 88

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 88

pg.32

“When the initial line is advanced through the overhead door, the status of the door leading to the living area must be known. This door must be closed and protected to prevent the spread of fire and/or smoke to the interior of the house. A hoseline must also be advanced through the house to the interior garage door to prevent extension. The fire attack through the overhead door must utilize a straight or solid stream to lessen the products of combustion from being driven into the main portion of the house.”

Question 89

How do you access the garage overhead door manual release?

Answer 89

Breach overhead door in the center about three quarters of the way up from the bottom.

pg.32

“Breaching the overhead door in the center about three quarters of the way up from the bottom, can, at times, provide access to the overhead door manual release. If the manual pull cord is still intact, it may be within reach of the opening made in the door. Pull the cord to disengage the door from the motor, allowing the door to then be raised.”

Question 90

What are attics?

Answer 90

Space under a gable roof.

pg.32

“Attics are considered the space under the gabled roof.”

Question 91

What are cocklofts?

Answer 91

Space under a flat roof.

pg.32

“Cocklofts are considered the space under a flat roof.”

Question 92

Attic Fires

Answer 92

pg.33/34

”

1. Gaining access and placing a hose line at the level of the fire into the attic, Figure 18. This option is usually the most effective. An attic ladder needs to get to the top floor early when the officer has suspicion that fire has entered the attic space. When time is critical, consideration should be given to using available means/options of access to the attic until a ladder is available (use of a kitchen counter, dresser, bed, etc.)

To assist in containing the fire and slow the lateral spread, early roof ventilation should be considered. The location and extent of fire, along with construction type, must be considered. Truck positioning and the ability to vent from the aerial device or tower bucket are also factors for consideration, especially in lightweight wood frame construction.

Deployment of resources is going to be dictated by the type of construction and the degree of fire involvement. Several methods have proven successful:

• Gaining access and placing a hose line at the level of the fire into the attic, Figure 18. This option is usually the most effective. An attic ladder needs to get to the top floor early when the officer has suspicion that fire has entered the attic space. When time is critical, consideration should be given to using available means/options of access to the attic until a ladder is available (use of a kitchen counter, dresser, bed, etc.)
• Hooking the ceiling and directing the stream from below into the attic area. This method is not as efficient as the previous method of placing the hose stream at the level of the fire.
• Placing a wide fog stream into an access hole is an effective method when the fire has not self-vented and the roof does not have a ridge vent. (Mass steam production.)
• Access to the attic area by cutting an access through the gable end.
• Distributor/cellar nozzle deployed through a hole cut in the roof while member is independently supported on a ladder or tower.

Question 93

If there is active fire in the attic, how many lines are preferred?

Answer 93

multiple.

pg.35

“If there is active fire in the attic, multiple lines are preferred. Multiple companies will be needed to gain access to the attic area. The location of the access to the attic area must be appropriate to the situation regarding the percentage of fire involvement and structural integrity of the roof.”

Question 94

noteworthy

Answer 94

pg.35

“The standard gable roof has been the stage for many spectacular fires, Figure 20. In general, if not quickly extinguished, this roof design tends to “burn away.” It represents a relatively low catastrophic collapse hazard. Companies should consider operating in areas of the structure without large dead loads above such as hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms because the interior walls will give some protection of falling ceiling materials. Units should avoid working under open areas such as foyers due to the long, unsupported span of the truss.”

Question 95

noteworthy

Answer 95

pg.35

“Another hazard associated with the well-involved attic fire is the collapse of the overhang (soffit), Figure 21. The exterior wall acts as a fulcrum. As the majority of the roof burns away,the remaining overhang may collapse downward to the balconies or ground. Firefighters must be aware of the risk when operating on balconies, Towers, ladders or the ground below this collapse hazard area.”

Question 96

How many lines are usually needed to handle a cockloft fire?

Answer 96

1

pg.37

“One attack line on the top floor is usually sufficient to handle a cockloft fire. The exception is when there is a significant void of several feet. Tactics for pitched roofs would apply in those cases.”

Question 97

noteworthy

Answer 97

pg.38

“A 2-inch smooth bore with a nozzle pressure of 80 PSI has very strong penetration ability. Remember if you do not need reach or penetration use a narrow fog master stream nozzle because it will extinguish fire more rapidly than a smooth bore nozzle.”

Question 98

Most wind driven fires occur where?

Answer 98

Upper stories of high-rises.

pg.39

“Most wind- driven fires occur in the upper stories of high-rises, but have also been documented in lower levels down to the third floor or in residential structures. Additionally, these hazardous conditions can exist with exterior winds as low as 10-20 mph.”

Question 99

When should horizontal ventilation be performed, if it’s a wind driven fire?

Answer 99

After being directed by command.

pg.40

“If wind-driven fire conditions are present, no horizontal ventilation should be performed until directed by Command.”

Question 100

Exposure areas to be checked?

Answer 100

all floors to include the attic and basement.

pg.41

“The purpose of the exposure line(s) is to prevent or extinguish fire spread into any attached exposure.

Areas to be checked are all floors to include the attic and basement. Any separate unit attached to the occupancy of fire origin must be checked, any indication of fire spread, advance a hoseline.”

Question 101

Turntable placement at townhouse fires

Answer 101

• Contents + plus aggressive interior attack, place turntable in front of involved unit.
• If an attic fire, place turntable Infront of upwind exposure.
• Heavily involved fired that may reuire elevated streams, place turntable of first truck in front of most threatened exposure. 2nd truck infront of next most exposed unit.

pg.42

“There are three general locations for turntable placement at townhouse fires. These are determined by degree of fire extension and location.

 If it is a contents fire with an aggressive interior attack, place the turntable in front of the involved unit. This will facilitate the best placement of the aerial to windows, if needed. The aerial will be able to be raised to the roof of the involved unit or to either exposure easily from this position.

 If there is an attic fire, place the turntable in front of the upwind exposure.

 For a heavily involved situation that may require the use of elevated streams, the turntable of the first truck should be in front of the most threatened exposure. The second truck should be in front of the next most severely exposed unit. If possible, both turntables should be able to rotate back to the original fire occupancy to assist with the completion of extinguishing the main body of fire.”

Question 102

Size of factors that may call for ventilation prior to entry:

Answer 102

• Untenable conditions
• Signs of Backdraft
• Smoldering stage

pg.42

“Certain size-up factors (untenable conditions, signs of a backdraft, or smoldering stage, etc.) may indicate the need for ventilation prior to entry into the structure. In most cases, ventilation should occur from the top down using the removal of windows as the avenue for hot gases to escape.”

Question 103

Rescue and Primary Search

Which areas are considered to be the two most dangerous search areas?

Answer 103

The area close to the fire on the fire floor and the area directly above the fire.

pg.43

“The area closest to the fire on the fire floor and the area directly above the fire, are considered to be the two most dangerous areas. Means of egress and sleeping areas are generally considered to be the most critical areas to search. The objective in a primary search will be to check these areas first.”

Question 104

If the tactic of Vent, Enter and Search is being used, who should be notified to avoid duplication of effort?

Answer 104

Incident commander.

PG.43

“Should the tactic of Vent Enter Search (VES) be used, the IC must be notified to avoid duplication of effort.”

Question 105

When should the roof be ventilated?

Answer 105

• Fire in the attic area.
• Extended into structure walls.
• Considerable hold of the top floor.

pg.44

“The roof will not need to be ventilated unless the fire has entered the attic area, extended into the structure walls, or has considerable hold of the top floor”

Question 106

noteworthy

Answer 106

“Crews ordered to perform rooftop ventilation in lightweight construction must be independently supported by the use of an aerial device or a roof ladder. A viable and safer option is to vent the ends of a gable roof.”

Question 107

Is PPV allowed to be used in balloon-frame construction?

Answer 107

no.

pg.44

“Mechanical and positive pressure ventilation (PPV) works well for smoke removal in these types of structures. PPV shall NOT be used in balloon-frame construction.”

Question 108

The majority of townhouse roofs in Northern Virginia are all what construction?

Answer 108

Truss construction.

pg.45

“The majority of townhouse roofs in Northern Virginia are of truss construction. Take appropriate safety precautions. Crews ordered to perform rooftop ventilation in lightweight construction must be independently supported by the use of an aerial device or a roof ladder.”

Question 109

If no rear access where should the 2nd truck position?

Answer 109

when no rear access position side alpha in front of uncovered exposure

pg.19

“The second truck should position in the rear or in a position to cover the rear. When there is no access to the rear, the additional truck should position on Side Alpha in front of the uncovered exposure. Ground ladders and truck operations in the rear will remain a priority.”