High Rise

Question 1

Fire Sector or Branch-Defined as the fire floor and the floor above.

• Forward Staging Area-An area established on a floor below the Fire Sector/Branch to provide logistical support to the Fire Sector/Branch.
• Search and Evacuation Group or Branch-A position established above the Fire Sector/Branch to control and coordinate all search and evacuation operations in that area.

Answer 1

HVAC STRATEGIC OPERATING PLAN
3.3.1 Determine the status of all HVAC systems in the building. Any systems that have not been automatically shut down shall be manually shut down. This shall include both the supply and return fans.
Note: In some systems, the smoke detectors only shut down the supply fans and allow the return air fans to remain operating. The return fans will have to be shut down manually.
3.3.2 Before any further action can be taken with the HVAC system, the fire floor must be accurately determined.
3.3.3 All the HVAC systems shall be placed in the non-circulating mode by:
A. Opening all outside air supply dampers.
B. Closing all mixing dampers.
C. Opening all exhaust dampers. (Figure 2)
E-open-exhaust
M-close-mixer
S-open-supply
3.3.4 After the fire floor has been adequately determined, all HVAC zones that do not include the fire area shall have their supply fans activated. This will supply fresh outside air to these zones, pressurizing these zones and limiting the spread of smoke. It will also supply fresh outside air to any occupants on the floors in these zones.
3.3.5 Whenever the HVAC systems are reactivated, all units operating in the building shall be alerted to report any adverse effects.
*fire dampers restrict passage of HEAT not SMOKE

Question 2

3.4.1 Automatic closure of the fire dampers is usually effected upon operation of an approved fusible link or other approved heat activated device located where they would be readily effected by an abnormal rise in temperature in the duct. Fusible links should have a temperature rating approximately 50o F above the maximum temperature that would normally be encountered with the system in operation or shut down.
A. Once a fire damper has closed it must be manually opened before air can pass though the opening it is protecting.
-Local Law No. 5 of 1973 requires an approved product of combustion ionization detecting device or a combination of an approved smoke detecting device and an approved fixed temperature thermostatic device. These devices shall be located at the air return shaft at each floor in order to monitor each inlet to the return airshaft.
A. Activation of any of the detectors installed in an HVAC system shall stop the air supply into and the air return from the affected floor. The air supply and the air return are stopped by the activation of an approved remote controlled reversible fire shutter or by automatically shutting down the air supply fans and the air return fans serving the floor where activated.
B. The fans cannot be reactivated until the smoke detector has been cleared or the smoke detector relay has been electrically bypassed. This can be difficult and time consuming.

Answer 2

Temperature variations that occur in the periphery of the building, due to weather changes and movement of the sun, require supplementary treatment of the air. This is accomplished by the following:
A. Air supply may be from the main air supply shaft or from a separate periphery air supply shaft.
B. The air supply is ducted through the plenum on the floor below to the periphery of the building.
C. Flexible connectors are used between the ducts and the periphery air treatment equipment on the floor above.
1. Fire experience has shown that fire entering the plenum can extend from one floor to another when these flexible connectors fail.
D. The air is then passed through the air treatment equipment to meet the demands of the periphery. Piping containing heated or chilled water is used to condition the air. The air then is discharged into the periphery of the building.
E. The air is returned through the normal air return system.

Question 3

3.4.4. The Incident Commander shall contact the building engineer and obtain the following information concerning the HVAC system:
A. Location of the MER floors and the zones they supply.
B. Special HVAC zones in the building (e.g., theaters, restaurants, computer rooms, stores)
C. Central control of the HVAC systems and their location.
D. Number of return airshafts and their location.
E. If return airshafts are common to more than one HVAC supply system.
F. If supply and return dampers on each floor are controllable from a central location.
G. If there is a periphery air supply system.
3.4.5 Due to variations found, Chief Officers shall consult building engineers to become familiar with HVAC systems in their district.

Answer 3

A. The purpose of this section is to familiarize members with manually operated fire pumps.
B. The 1968 Building code requires a manual fire pump to supplement the standpipe system in buildings over 300 feet high. The 1938 Building Code requires a manual fire pump in buildings over 250 high.
C. Many times there are manual fire pumps in other than high-rise buildings. The same guidelines should be used in all buildings where building fire pumps exist.
D. It always has been the responsibility of building engineers to start the building fire pumps and this section does not releases them from this assignment. In the past, however, some engineers have been assigned to other duties when a fire starts. There is also the possibility that the building engineer might not be on duty at the time of the fire.

Question 4

5. OPERATIONS OF FIRST ALARM BATTALION CHIEF
   5.1 STRATEGIC OPERATING PLAN
   5.1.1 The first alarm Battalion Chief will assume the position of Incident Commander. The following is a basic strategic operating plan for use at major high-rise fires. (Listed in order of importance)
   A. Determine specific fire floor (if possible) or the floors on which smoke is reported from any information that is available to you in the building lobby.
6. Frequently, especially during off business hours, specific fire floor information will not be available other than a report of smoke on numerous floors (e.g., 20th to 35th floors).
   B. Verify fire floor. Review information received from responsible occupant/building management personnel and/or first arriving ladder company.
7. Determine the fire floor location as rapidly as possible. All future actions hinge on this vital piece of information.
   C. Simultaneously, or as soon as possible, begin the process of controlling evacuation.
8. Occupants of numerous floors may have self-initiated evacuation causing near panic in stair shafts or building lobby. These stairways must be searched and controlled during all phases of fire operations.
9. Due to large floor areas or maze like corridors, occupants on the fire floor may be unaware of the fire until it is too late to evacuate. Search of large areas will be required.
10. Search and evacuation of the floor above the fire will also be required as soon as possible.
    D. Gain control of the building systems.
11. Elevators.
12. HV AC.
13. Communications.
14. Fire pumps.
    E. Confine and extinguish the fire.
15. Experience indicates any serious fire will require a large commitment of units and equipment because of extensive logistic problems and a need for frequent relief of members.
    F. Battalion Chief assignments and duties at high-rise fires are pre-determined only for the Incident Commander and Fire Sector Supervisor or Branch Director if a Fire Branch is activated. Battalion Chief assignments after these positions are filled shall be determined by the Incident Commander. The Search and Evacuation Group, Forward Staging Area, and other Sector or Group assignments shall be assigned as conditions dictate.

Answer 4

STRATEGIC OPERATING PLAN  cont:
dave pace ceba
D-Determine specific fire floor
a- XXX
V- Verify fire floor
E- evacuation.
        Gain control of the building systems
.P- pump fire
A- ac  hvac
C-communications
E-elevators control

C-confine fire
E-extingusi fire
B-batt
A-assignments

Question 5

Under the direct control of an alert and knowledgeable Battalion Chief, the position of the IC in the lobby is of prime importance. To provide continuity of operations, it is essential that the first arriving Battalion Chief remain at the ICP after the arrival of the Deputy Chief. When command is transferred to the Deputy Chief, the Battalion Chief transferring command will remain at the ICP filling the position of the Planning Section Chief until the arrival of the Type 3 All Hazard Planning Section Chief who is assigned on the 3rd alarm. After briefing the All Hazard Planning Chief, the first due Battalion Chief shall be assigned other duties as per the IC. The IC shall remain at the ICP. If a Staff Chief assumes command, the first arriving Deputy Chief will then become the Operations Section Chief.

Answer 5

The first arriving Battalion Chief as initial IC will be required to make an initial size-
up to determine the adequacy of the response and the need for additional response.
A. A 10-76 signal shall be transmitted when a report of fire is confirmed. Any fire in a high-rise office building which requires the stretching and operating of one hoseline will necessitate the use of “All Hands.”
B. A second alarm is warranted for any visible fire or smoke emanating through the exterior skin of the building or when a serious fire has been verified.
C. Because of the large number of occupants in high-rise office buildings, even fires of a minor nature may require additional units to prevent unnecessary evacuation and panic.
D. When a Second Alarm is transmitted for a fire in a High-Rise building prior to the transmission of a 10-76, the Incident Commander will receive the balance of the 10-76 assignment in addition to the Second Alarm assignment.

**CR MD says only fire showing from exterior.

Question 6

The first arriving Battalion Chief as initial IC shall establish contact with the fire safety director if present or his/her surrogate to determine the following:
A. Has the fire floor definitely been determined.
B. What is the extent of the evacuation that has been implemented.
C. Have there been any reports of severe life hazards.
D. What is the status of the elevators and the HVAC system.
E. Are there any access stairs in the vicinity of the reported fire floor.
F. What communications have been established between the fire floor and the fire command station.
G.What communications have been established between the fire command station and the occupants of the building.
H.What is the condition in the stairways. Is there smoke or heat present. Are the occupants of the building self-evacuating.
I.Obtain the Building Information Card (BIC) from the Fire Command station

Answer 6

TACTICAL PLAN
5.3.1 To achieve the basic strategic plan, the first arriving Battalion Chief as initial IC shall take the following actions:
A. Contact any units that are on the scene before his/her arrival, to ascertain their location, fire conditions, and the operations they have implemented. This information may be obtained from the Fire Department member who is staffing the ICP pending the arrival of the Battalion Chief.
B. The placement of the 10-76 assignment shall be as follows:
1. The first and second arriving engine companies shall be teamed to stretch and operate the first line.
2. The third and fourth arriving engine companies shall be used to stretch and operate the second line.
3. The CFR engine company, with all CFR-D equipment and forcible entry tools, shall be assigned to the Fire Sector Supervisor/Branch Director.
4. The first arriving ladder company shall be assigned to search and evacuate the fire floor.
5. The second arriving ladder company shall be assigned to augment the search and evacuation of the fire floor.
6. The third arriving ladder company shall be assigned to search and evacuate the floor above the fire.
7. The fourth arriving ladder company shall be assigned similarly, to operate on the upper floors and to initiate the search of the attack stairway.

Question 7

TACTICAL PLAN CONT:
8. 9.
10. 11.
FIREFIGHTING PROCEDURES HIGH-RISE OFFICE BUILDINGS
The FAST unit shall be assigned to the Fire Sector Supervisor/Branch Director.
The rescue and assigned squad company shall be used to perform special tasks as determined by the IC.
The second arriving Battalion Chief shall be assigned to establish and assume the position as Fire Sector Supervisor/Branch Director.
The fire floor and floor above shall be considered the Fire Sector/Branch. A rapidly expanding incident often presents span of control issues. These types of incidents require increasing numbers of units to be assigned. A Fire Branch may be implemented to address these span of control issues. Generally a Branch would be activated on the 2nd alarm.


Answer 7

A prime decision that the IC must make is the placement of the first line. The following conditions must be considered:
A. To evaluate information received from operating units as to the location of the fire in relation to the stairways and the standpipe system and to select the stairway from which to operate the first line (attack stairway).
B. The number of stairways serving the fire floor.
C. The stair or stairways being used by the occupants evacuating the building.
1. A hoseline shall not be operated from a stairway until it has been cleared of building occupants.
2. A stairway shall be selected for evacuation of building occupants (evacuation stairway) preferably a fire tower if available.
3. The Fire Sector (fire floor and the floor above) are initially all that are required to be evacuated. However, occupants of many other floors may self-initiate evacuation, utilizing any or all stairways until instructed otherwise. This mandates that all stairways are searched, especially the attack stairway before and during fire operations.

Question 8

Considering all the above items, the placement of the second line may be used to:
A. Reinforce the position of the first line.
B. Protect the position of the first line.
C. Protect the search and evacuation of the fire floor.
D. Contain and confine fire spread and/or prevent fire from wrapping around the core and endangering operation of the first line.
P-protection
C-confinment/contain
R-reinforce

*IN FPHR All horizontal ventilation tactics shall be controlled, communicated and coordinated by the IC.

Answer 8

Fire Sector / Fire Branch
5.5.1 ThesecondarrivingBattalionChiefshallbeassignedastheFireSectorSupervisor or Fire Branch Director. Initially, the Fire Sector/Branch is defined as the fire floor and the floor above.
5.5.2 Establishment of the Fire Sector or Branch
A. The Fire Sector Supervisor or Fire Branch Director shall take a position on the FIRST FLOOR BELOW THE FIRE, WHERE CONDITIONS PERMIT.
B. The location of the Fire Sector or Branch Supervisor shall ensure reliable communications with the operating units and the ICP.
C. The Fire Sector or Branch shall be equipped with the following:
1. SCBA for all personnel required for the operations of this sector/branch.
2. Copy of the floor plan.
3. Fire Sector/Branch log. (Figure 14)
4. Post Radio
r-raido post
o-operation log
s-scba
t-two ht
plan- plan floor

Question 9

5.5.3
FIREFIGHTING PROCEDURES HIGH-RISE OFFICE BUILDINGS
The Fire Sector Supervisor or Branch Director shall be responsible for:
A. Control and coordination of the units operating on the fire floor and the floor above.
B. All communications between the Fire Sector/Branch and the units operating within the sector/ branch. (CH1)
C. All communications between the Fire Sector/Branch and the ICP.(CH2)
D. The implementation of any changes the IC or Operations Section Chief has made to the plan.
E. Advising the IC of conditions, problems and the need for additional units.
F. Consulting with the IC as to any possible change of tactics or strategy that may be required.
G. Communications with the Forward Staging Area Manager once it has been staffed.
H. Keeping in reserve an adequate number of units assigned to the Fire Sector/Branch for the orderly relief of units when required.

Answer 9

When conditions require, the third or fourth arriving Battalion Chiefs may be assigned to operate under the direction of the Fire Sector Supervisor or Fire Branch Director. These Battalion Chiefs may be assigned as Attack Leader if operating under the command of the Fire Sector Supervisor, or as Attack Group/Sector Supervisor if operating under the command of the Fire Branch Director.
ICS Note: Leaders operate under Supervisors and Supervisors operate under Directors.

L-leaders
S-supervisors
D-directors

Question 10

The ICP will be the center of all communications, and shall establish the following communications network:
1. Department radio and hard wire with the Fire Department dispatcher.
2. A command channel shall be established using the following:
a. Post Radio
b. Cross Band Repeater
c. Handie-Talkie
The command channel shall be used between the Fire Sector/Branch, Forward Staging Area, Forward Triage Area, and Search and Evacuation Group. Hard wire communications shall also be established.
3. The Incident Commander shall operate on the command channel. The aide shall operate on and monitor the primary tactical channel.

Answer 10

The Fire Sector Supervisor or Fire Branch Director shall establish the following communications network:

1. HT communications on the primary tactical channel with the units under his or her command. When the Fire Sector/Branch is established, units under its command shall not communicate with the ICP unless urgent.
2. HT communications with the ICP on the command channel. Hard wire communications shall also be established.
3. HT communication between the Fire Sector/Branch and the Forward Staging Area shall be conducted on the command channel.
4. The Fire Sector Supervisor or Fire Branch Director shall operate on the primary tactical channel. His/her aide shall operate on the command channel.

Question 11

The Search and Evacuation Group Supervisor (SAE) shall establish the following communications network:

1. HT communication with the units under his/her command on the secondary tactical channel. When the SAE Group is established, units assigned to the SAE Group shall switch to secondary tactical channel and shall not communicate with the ICP unless urgent.
2. HT communications with the IC on the command channel. Hard wire communication shall also be established.
3. The Search and Evacuation Group Supervisor shall operate on the secondary tactical channel. His/her aide shall monitor and operate on the command channel.

Answer 11

The Forward Staging Area Manager shall establish the following communications network:

1. HT communications with the ICP and the Fire Sector or Branch on the command channel. Hard wire communications shall also be established with the ICP.
2. The Forward Staging Area Manager shall operate on the command channel. His/her aide shall monitor the primary tactical channel.

Question 12

When directing communications to the ICP, the Fire Sector or Fire Branch, the Search and Evacuation Group and the Forward Staging Area, designated locations shall be used rather than the unit designation. Examples:
A. "Fire Sector to Command"
B. "Ladder 8 to Fire Sector"
C. "SAE Group to Command"
D. "Command to Forward Staging"


Answer 12

INCIDENT COMMAND POST (ICP)
6.3.1 The early establishment of an ICP in the lobby will enable the IC to exert central control over:
A. Evacuation.
B. Building systems.
C. The Fire Department units being deployed to locate, confine and extinguish the fire.
6.3.2 High-rise fires present significant management, logistical and safety problems. As a result, the Incident Command System allows several special ICS positions and modification of others. The IC may find it necessary to establish subordinate levels of supervision as follows:
A. Operations Section Chief
 Implementing strategy and tactics.
 Management of all tactical resources.
B. Fire Sector or Fire Branch
 Geographical division of the fire area.
C. Search and Evacuation Group (or Branch if conditions warrant).  Functional support for searches above the fire sector/branch.
D. Planning Section Chief
 Supervision of Resources Unit Leader.
 Responsible for Status Check-in and Demobilization.
 Responsible for situation reports to IC or Operations.
 Responsible for documentation.
 Responsible for any technical specialist required on scene.  Responsible for Incident Action Plan if required.

Question 13

Logistics Section Chief
 Supervision of the Lobby Control Unit.
 Supervision of the Communications Unit.
 Supervision of the High-Rise Support Unit.
 Supervision of the Systems Control Unit.
 Supervision of the Rehabilitation Unit.
 Responsible for all activities supporting the incident.
–Forward Staging Area.
 A designated location on an upper floor where personnel and equipment
are maintained in a state of readiness for tactical deployment.
 Provides logistical support to all the resources assigned to Fire
Sector/Branch and/or the SAE Group.
—Lobby Control Unit (L)
 Recall, control, and operate elevators. Recall and search all elevator
cars terminating at the lobby.
 Establish and control all building access points and direct personnel to
correct stair/elevator or route.
 Direct building occupants and exiting personnel to proper ground level
safe areas or routes.
–System Control Unit (Y)
 Monitor and control the Class E communications system; the heating,
ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system and any other building systems as directed by the Incident Commander.
 Evaluate communications systems for functionality and operability. This includes the use of HTs, hardwire phones, cellular phones, post radios, cross-band repeaters and building repeaters.
–High Rise Support Unit (H)
 Utilized to transport equipment via elevator to the Forward Staging
Area. If the elevators cannot be used, manage the transportation of equipment and supplies to the upper floors via the stairways.
—Medical Branch
 The triage, treatment and transportation of those injured at the
incident.
 Triage locations may be internal or external to the building depending
on the incident conditions.
—Staging Area
 Provides an assembly and deployment point from which large quantities
of personnel and equipment are distributed.
 Serves as the primary point outside the structure to which responding
resources will report and receive their initial assignments.
 Located away from buildings to provide personnel safety from falling
glass and debris.
-Forward Triage Area
 Responsible for the prompt response to injured civilians and members.
 ESTABLISHED IN AN ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE LOCATION ON A FLOOR BELOW THE
FORWARD STAGING AREA.

Answer 13

Staffing of the Incident Command Post.

A. The first arriving officer shall establish the ICP. In the event that he or she leaves the ICP before the arrival of a Chief Officer, he or she shall designate a member to staff the ICP, preferably the chauffeur of the first arriving ladder company. This member shall then note the units entering and leaving the lobby and their destination.
B. The first arriving Battalion Chief shall assume command as the IC. When command is transferred to the arriving Deputy Chief, he or she shall remain at the ICP and be assigned the position of the Planning Section Chief.

Question 14

Operations of the Incident Command Post.
A. The initial operations performed by the first arriving Battalion Chief as the IC are outlined in section 5. To continue the initial operation and to meet the demands of an expanding fire situation, the following shall be necessary:
1. Determine the need for additional evacuation and develop a plan for its implementation.
a. If necessary, establish a Search and Evacuation Group (SAE). If the span of control becomes an issue, then a SAE Branch can be established with Groups operating under that Branch.
2. Complete the Incident Command Post checklist.
3. Determine the need for additional assistance.
4. Implement a plan for the use of the HVAC system.
5. Supply additional units as required to the Forward Staging Area.
6. Provide additional SCBA cylinders to the Forward Staging Area.
7. Account for elevators in all banks.
8. Using the floor plan for the fire floor and/or the BIC, plot the location of the fire, the stairway or stairways being used for the attack, the stairway or stairways being used for evacuation and the location of the elevators in relation to the fire.
9. Determine the safety of the service elevator for Fire Department use.
10. Provide Fire Department personnel to staff and operate all elevators being used.
11. Determine the need for and if necessary, establish a Forward Staging Area or Staging Area.
12. Establish a communications network.
Note: The above twelve items will require time, a systematic approach and the assistance of one or more additional Chief Officers to assure each item is checked and updated as conditions change.

Answer 14

The IC has the responsibility of supplying logistical support to the Fire Sector/Branch, SAE Group and the Forward Staging Area. This support shall consist of additional staffing and equipment. To accomplish this, he or she shall do the following:
A. If necessary, activate a Logistics Section Chief or High-Rise Support Unit.
B. Supply sufficient resources to the Forward Staging Area to enable it to meet the resource needs of the tactical assignments established in the building (Fire Sector/Branch, SAE Group, and others).
C. At high-rise fires, consideration of resource availability and response time are important. At least three engines and two ladder companies shall be at the Forward Staging Area for immediate support of the Fire Sector/Branch. The SAE Group will require at least one unit for every five floors to be covered.
D. Supply sufficient spare SCBA cylinders to the Forward Staging Area to support operations. A supply of at least 20 spare SCBA cylinders shall be maintained at the Forward Staging Area.

*fow staging area:
3 -engs
2-ladders
20 spare scba

s and e group least one unit for every 5 fls be covered

Question 15

E. Engine companies reporting to the Forward Staging Area shall bring with them the following equipment unless otherwise directed:
1. A SCBA for each member.
2. A standpipe kit and a nozzle.
3. A length of hose per firefighter.
4. A spare SCBA cylinder for each member.
SHEK
S-scba each
H-hose length each
E-etra scba
K-kit standpipe

Answer 15

F. Ladder companies reporting to the Forward Staging Area shall bring with them the following equipment, unless otherwise directed:
1. A SCBA for each member.
2. Two sets of forcible entry tools and six-foot hooks.
3. Search and utility ropes.
4. A spare SCBA cylinder for each member.
SHES FUCK U
S-scba each
H-hooks 6 ft
E-extra scba
S-search ropes

FUCK- f/e tools
U-utility rope

Question 16

G. The High-Rise Support Unit shall be used by the IC, or Logistics Section Chief if staffed, to supply the following:

1. Spare SCBA cylinders to the Forward Staging Area or other areas of the building where required.
2. Special tools and equipment to areas of the building as directed by the IC.

Answer 16

A pre-designated unit that has been trained and equipped to operate as a Lobby Control Unit shall be used by the IC or Logistics Section Chief if staffed. Its duties shall be as follows:
A. Control building access points.
B. Control the operations of all elevators.
C. Ensure the proper staffing of all elevators.
D. Direct personnel to the correct elevator or stairs.
E. Direct civilians from the lobby to the proper building exit.
F. Any other duties as deemed necessary by the IC, or Logistics Section Chief when staffed.

*LCU (L) under logistics

Question 17

Smoke control in high- rise office buildings shall be implemented when authorized by the Incident Commander. The IC shall attempt to control the movement of smoke within the building by the following means:
A. The use of HV AC systems.
B. Some buildings have fixed stairwell pressurization systems. When a fixed stairwell pressurization system in a building is activated, it will cause positive pressurization of stairwells in the building. When operating in a building that has a fixed stairwell pressurization system that is activated, the IC shall continue operations with the system on. The IC shall continually evaluate the effects of the fixed stairwell pressurization system. The fixed system should not be augmented by FDNY Positive Pressure Ventilation Fans. Augmentation can cause leakage which will reduce pressure in the stair shaft.
Note: Buildings that have a fixed stairwell pressurization system shall be entered into CIDS.

Answer 17

FDNY Positive Pressure Ventilation Fans can be used when the building does not have a fixed stairwell pressurization system, or the system is out of service for any reason. The use of FDNY Positive Pressure Ventilation Fans shall not be initiated until authorized by the IC. FDNY Positive Pressure Ventilation Fans can be used to pressurize the attack and evacuation stairwells to either keep heat and smoke from entering stairwells or to sequentially ventilate floors of a building. Due to the greater square footage of floor areas and the volume of stair shafts in high- rise office buildings, more fans may be needed to accomplish this than would be used in Fire Proof Multiple Dwellings. The IC should consider special calling an additional ventilation support group(s).

Question 18

Natural vertical ventilation (ventilation without the use of fans), is also an option. This is accomplished by opening the doors at the top and bottom of the stairway once the fire is extinguished. This will increase the stack effect and assist in the removal of smoke via the stairway.
Natural vertical ventilation is venting the top and bottom of vertical shafts to the outer air. Natural vertical ventilation is influenced by the stack effect as follows:
1. Its effect becomes noticeable in buildings over 60 feet, and increases as the building’s height increases.
2. Its effect can be either positive or negative.
a. The positive stack effect is the upward movement of air in a vertical shaft.
b. The negative stack effect is the downward movement of air in a vertical shaft.
3. Positive stack effect increases as the outside air temperature decreases in relation to the temperature inside the building.
4. Negative stack effect may occur when the outside temperature is greater than the temperature inside the building. Its possibility is greatest when the outside air temperature is above 90o F.
5. Its effect, both positive and negative, may be intensified by the speed and direction of the wind.
6. To obtain the greatest benefit from the stack effect, the doors at the top and bottom of the stairway must be opened when a stairway is used for smoke removal. The street floor near this stairway must also be vented to the outer air.
Fire towers are not recommended for use as fire attack stairs because they may draw the heat and smoke of the higher pressure area near the fire, towards the possible lower pressure area of the stairway.

Answer 18

Horizontal ventilation by the removal or opening of windows; safety precautions shall be taken in the area that will be affected by falling glass shards.

1. Horizontal ventilation should be the last consideration as its effects are least likely to be beneficial.
   a. The stack effect of vertical shafts could cause the movement of air into the building and not allow the smoke to escape to the exterior.

Question 19

FIRE SECTOR or BRANCH
6.4.1 The Fire Sector or Fire Branch falls within the Operations Section. The Fire Sector/Branch is defined as the fire floor and the floor above. The position of Fire Sector Supervisor/Branch Director will be assigned to the second arriving Battalion Chief. The Fire Sector Supervisor/Branch Director is responsible for control and coordination of all operations conducted within the Fire Sector/Branch Following ICS principles, a Fire Sector would normally be established first and as the incident expands, this would change to a Branch to address span of control issues.
6.4.2 The Fire Sector Supervisor/Branch Director shall direct units from a location that provides:
A. Proximity to the units operating within the Fire Sector/Branch, usually the floor below the fire.
B. Hard wire communications to the ICP (building internal phone system or FDNY Sound Powered Phone System).
C. Reliable HT communications with the units operating under their command on the primary tactical channel.
D. Communication with the ICP on the command channel using the Post Radio.
E. Maintaining communications with the Forward Staging Area Manager and SAE Group Supervisor on the command channel.
F Adequate space for units being held in reserve.
G. Accessibility to units reporting to the Fire Sector/Branch.

Answer 19

The Fire Sector Supervisor or Branch Director shall be equipped with:
A. At least two HTs.
B. SCBA for all members assigned to the Fire Sector/Branch.
C. A copy of the floor plan.
D. The Fire Sector/Branch log. (Figure 14)
E. Post radio

RSOT  PLAN
R- radio post
S-scba each
O-operation log 
T- two HTs

PLAN- plan floor

Question 20

The Fire Sector/Branch shall be staffed as follows:
A. Prior to the arrival of the second Battalion Chief, the IC shall designate the company officer of one of the first arriving units to act as the Fire Sector Supervisor and coordinate the operations on the fire floor and the floor above.
B. The IC shall assign the second arriving Battalion Chief as Fire Sector Supervisor/Branch Director, assisted by his/her aide.
C. The second arriving Battalion Chief shall remain as the Fire Sector Supervisor/Branch Director until a transfer of command is conducted with the Deputy Chief responding on the transmission of a 2nd alarm. Once the transfer of command is complete, consideration should be given to establish a Fire Branch reassigning the 2nd arriving Battalion and/or other Chief Officers to subordinate positions within the Fire Branch.
D. Fire Sector Supervisor may use other chiefs as Leaders to supervise units or if established, the Branch Director may establish sectors and/or groups supervised by later arriving Battalion Chiefs to coordinate and control units operating on the fire floor and the floor above.
* units relieved from fire operations shall report to fire sector/branch (figure 14)

Answer 20

The duties of the Fire Sector Supervisor or Fire Branch Director are outlined in Section 6.4. In addition, he/she shall:
A. Ensure that the attack stairway has been cleared of building occupants for at least five floors above the fire.
B. Ensure that the evacuation stairway is maintained safe for any required evacuation and for use by Fire Department personnel.
C. Review the operations of the first arriving units to determine the need for changes in tactics or procedures.
D. Advise the IC as to the need for and the placement of the second line.
E. Prior to the establishment of the Forward Staging Area, advise the Incident Commander of the need for:
1. Additional units.
2. An adequate supply of SCBA cylinders.
3. Any additional equipment that may be needed.
F. After the establishment of the Forward Staging Area, obtain the items listed in “E” from the Forward Staging Area Manager.
G. Advise the IC of the need for additional evacuation of the floors above the Fire Sector/Branch.

Question 21

SEARCH AND EVACUATION GROUP (SAE)
6.5.1 The SAE Group is responsible for the search and examination of areas in the building above the Fire Sector/Branch. The SAE Group Supervisor is responsible for the supervision of the units operating above the Fire Sector/Branch. The Fire Sector/Branch is defined as the fire floor and one floor above. As determined by the IC, the position of SAE Group Supervisor may be staffed by the third or fourth arriving Battalion Chief. If conditions dictate, an SAE Branch may be established and Groups can be formed and assigned specific floors to address span of control issues.
ICS Note: Branches are formed to address span of control issues. A Group Supervisor can supervise 3-7 units. If more units are used, a Branch should be established, and groups or sectors assigned to that Branch.

Answer 21

The criteria for the location of the SAE Group Supervisor shall be dependent on the following:
A. B. C.
Example #1
Example #2
Example #3
Fire location and severity
HT effectiveness
If possible, the SAE Group Supervisor shall choose a location on a floor which is not serviced by the same bank of elevators as the fire floor and at least five floors above the fire floor. (Figure 18)
For a fire on a floor serviced by a low-rise bank of elevators:
1. If the fire were on the 4th floor, the SAE Group Supervisor would be located on the 17th floor or above.
2. If the fire were on the 14th floor, the SAE Group Supervisor would be located on the 19th floor or above.
For a fire on a floor serviced by an intermediate rise bank of elevators:
1. If the fire were on the 20th floor, the SAE Group Supervisor would be located on the 31st floor or above.
2. If the fire were on the 28th floor, the SAE Group Supervisor would be located on the 33rd floor or above.
For a fire on a floor serviced by a high-rise bank of elevators, the SAE Group Supervisor would be located at least five floors above the fire floor.

Question 22

The SAE Group Supervisor shall be equipped as follows:
At least 2 HTs.
Post Radio.
3. SCBA for all members assigned to the SAE Group.
4. A spare SCBA cylinder for each member assigned to the SAE Group.
5. Floor diagram, pad and pen.
POST PEST
POST-post radio
P-Plan floor
E-extra scba
S-scab each
T-two hts
—An additional CFR engine company may be assigned to the SAE Group Supervisor if necessary.

Answer 22

The SAE Group Supervisor shall be responsible for the following:
A. The control and coordination of all units operating above the Fire Sector/Branch.
B. Communication with the ICP on the command channel using the Post Radio.
C. Maintaining communications with the Fire Sector Supervisor/Branch Director and Forward Staging Area Manager on the command channel.
D. Obtaining from the IC, or the Forward Staging Area when established, sufficient units for the operations within the SAE Group. If conditions dictate, an additional Forward Staging Area may be assigned to the SAE Group. All units assigned to the SAE Group shall bring a spare SCBA cylinder for each member.
E. Preventing unnecessary evacuation and avoiding panic.
F. Controlling necessary evacuation.
1. By the use of the evacuation stairs.
2. By the use of smoke-free blind shaft elevators staffed by Fire Department personnel.
G. Preventing the use of the attack stairs for evacuation.
H. Ensure that all floors above the Fire Sector/Branch have been searched.
I. Ensure that all stairways have been searched.
J. Establish the required communications.
K. Advising the IC of conditions and problems encountered on the upper floors.

Question 23

FORWARD STAGING AREA
6.6.1 The Forward Staging Area is staffed by a Battalion Chief assigned as the Forward Staging Area Manager. Its purpose is to provide logistical support to the Fire Sector/Branch and the SAE Group.
6.6.2 The Forward Staging Area shall be established two floors below the original fire floor, when the following conditions permit:
A. Where there is adequate space to hold units and equipment in reserve.
B. Where the units have ready access to the Fire Sector/Branch and attack stairway(s).
C. That provides hard wire communications to the ICP.
D. That provides reliable HT communications between the Forward Staging Area and the Fire Sector/Branch, SAE Group and the ICP.
E. That is accessible to units reporting to it.
F. Area is a non-IDLH environment.

• bc comm w icp on ch2 post radio
• bc com w/ S&E and fire sec/branch on ch2

Answer 23

The Forward Staging Area Manager shall be equipped as follows:
A. At least two HTs.
B. Post Radio.
C. Forward Staging Area log. (Figure 17)
6.6.4 The Forward Staging Area shall be staffed by a Battalion Chief and his/her aide.

LT POST
L-log
T-two HTS
POST -post radio

Question 24

The Forward Staging Area Manager shall be responsible for the following:
A. Control of all units being held in reserve and those units on R & R.
B. Obtaining from the IC, or Operations Section Chief when staffed, sufficient units to adequately meet the demands of the Fire Sector/Branch and the SAE Group. At least three engine and two ladder companies shall be maintained in reserve at the Forward Staging Area.
C. Communication with the ICP on the command channel using the Post Radio.
D Maintaining communications with the Fire Sector Supervisor/Branch Director and SAE Group Supervisor on the command channel.
E. Maintaining at least 20 spare SCBA cylinders.
F. Provide for the transportation of injured members or building occupants to the Forward Triage Area or to the lobby.

Answer 24

FORWARD TRIAGE AREA

6. 7.1 The Forward Triage Area (FTA) is established within the building by the Incident Commander or Operations Section Chief when staffed. It is supervised by a Forward Triage Area Manager.
7. 7.2 Its purpose is to ensure the prompt response to injured civilians and members.
8. 7.3 The FTA shall be established in an environmentally safe location on a floor below the Forward Staging Area. If conditions deteriorate on this floor, EMS personnel shall change locations. The IC shall be advised.
9. 7.4 The IC or Operations Section Chief when staffed, shall determine, in consultation with the Medical Group Supervisor, if conditions dictate the establishment of a Medical Branch.
10. 7.5 The Forward Triage Area Manager, or Medical Group Supervisor/Branch Director if established, shall monitor the Command Channel.

Question 25

Class “E” communications systems shall consist of:
A. The fire command station located in the lobby of the building near the elevator control panel.
B. Loudspeakers operated from the fire command station, which are located on all floors, in all elevators and in all stairway enclosures.
C. Floor warden stations on each floor which provide two-way communications with the fire command station.
D. Manual fire alarm sending stations on each floor.
E. Associated systems:
1. Smoke detection systems.
2. Sprinkler water flow alarms.
3. Thermostatic alarms.
4. Locked door fail safe system.

Answer 25

Two-way communications between the fire command station and the following:
1. Floor warden stations.
2. Mechanical control center.
3. Elevators.
4. Air handling control rooms.
5. Elevator machinery rooms.
D. A
selectively or collectively.
public address system to all floors, elevators and stairways either
E. The capability to transmit an alarm from the fire command station to the Fire Department via a central station.

WAMEE
W-warden station
A-air handling room
M-mechanical control center
E-elevators
E-elevator machinery room

Question 26

floor warden station shall be located on each floor between the required exits
IT shall be provided with:
A.A telephone type handset.
B.Capability to activate a visual and audible signal at the fire command station.
C.Two-way voice communications with the fire command station.
D.Provisions for making announcements over the loudspeaker system on the floor where it is located.
E.A handset, housing and door painted red and lettered “Fire Emergency- Open Door to Operate.”

Answer 26

7.2.4
At least one manual fire alarm sending station shall be located in each path of escape in each story of a building. Additional stations shall be installed so that no point on any floor shall be more than 200 feet from the nearest station. The activation shall cause:
A. Automatic transmission to the Fire Department via a central station.
B. A visual and audible signal at the fire command station, mechanical control center and the regularly assigned location of the fire safety director.
C. Sounding of the alarm on the fire floor and the floor above.*CHANGE?????

Question 27

7.2.5 An approved combustion ionization detection device or a combination of an approved smoke detecting device and an approved fixed temperature thermostatic device shall be installed:
A. At each elevator landing, the activation of this device shall:
1. Recall the elevators.
2. Sound the fire alarm signal on the fire floor and the floor above.
3. Cause a fire alarm signal to be transmitted to the Fire Department via a central station.
4. Cause a fire alarm signal to be sounded at the fire command station, the mechanical control center and the regularly assigned location of the fire safety director.
5. Stop the air supply into and the return air from the floor where activated.
6. Activate the air exhaust fans and dampers in the smoke shaft or the pressurizing fans in the stair enclosure.
7. Unlock the doors on the locked fail safe system.
-The activation of a sprinkler water flow alarm shall accomplish all of the actions listed in Section 7.2.5A.

-Within the HVAC system, the activation of this device shall accomplish all of the actions listed in 7.2.5A with the exception of recalling the elevators.

Answer 27

UTILIZATION OF THE CLASS “E” SYSTEM
7.3.1 Taking a position in the building lobby will afford the Incident Commander the ability to obtain the following information from the fire command station:
A. The location and time of activation of the: 1. Manual pull stations.
2. Smoke detecting devices.
3. Thermostatic detecting devices. 4. Sprinkler water flow alarms.
B. Status of the HV AC system.
C. Status of the elevators.
7.3.2 The communication features of the class “E” system can be used as follows:
A. The public address system:
1. To communicate with the building occupants.
2. To control evacuation.
3. To communicate with Fire Department personnel.
B. The warden telephone system:
1. To communicate with the floor wardens.
2. To establish hardwire communications between the ICP in the lobby and Fire Department personnel at the:
a. Fire Sector/Branch.
b. SAE Group.
c. Forward Staging Area.
d. Forward Triage Area.
e. Other locations.
C. Two-way
1. Elevators.
communications with:
2. Fire Pump room.
3. Mechanical control center.
4. Air handling control center.

Question 28

third ladder co.
-3. Determine which stairway is the best stairway to be used by the occupants for evacuation and advise the ICP.
4. Examine the floor above the fire and report to the ICP the following:
a. The heat and smoke conditions.
b. The status of the evacuation.
c. Any extension of the fire.
d. Presence of Access Stairs - down to fire floor or upward to floor above.
CASE
C-conditions heat/smole
A-access stairs to fire fl or fl above
S-status evauation
E- extension fire

Answer 28

If difficulty is encountered in clearing the attack stairway of occupants, the officer shall advise the first arriving ladder company or the Fire Sector Supervisor or Fire Branch Director if established, to withhold the attack until the occupants have been safely removed.

-When operations are completed on the floor above the fire, the officer shall report to the Fire Sector Supervisor/Branch Director either physically or via HT.
Notification to the IC or the Fire Sector/Branch of missions NOT accomplished can be more important than assignments accomplished.

Question 29

4th due ladder co. Upon arrival at the roof area, the officer shall:report following conditions to IC.
-Smoke and heat conditions in the area and in the stairways.
The presence of any building occupants.
All means available for roof ventilation, especially over stairways and elevator shafts.
Any unusual conditions.
Fire or occupants at windows visible from roof.

COVE
C-conditions heat/smoke
O-occupantants visiable
V-ventiliation roof avail
E-exterior examination fire/occupants
---not undertake roof ventilation unless ordered by the Incident Commander.

Answer 29

4th due ladder cont:
D. Determine the identification of all stairways and elevator shafts so that when ordered, the correct ventilation can be carried out.
E. Conduct a primary search of the top five floors.
F. Remove any occupants to a safe area or assure the occupants that they are safe to remain where they are.
G. Remain in the roof area to monitor and report any changing condition until otherwise ordered by the IC.
H. A logical assignment after roof operations would be the upper floors of elevator bank serving the fire floor.
I. Operate under the control of the IC until the SAE Group is established. They shall then operate under the command of the SAE Group Supervisor.

Question 30

8.7 Greater alarm or special called ladder companies after the fourth arriving ladder company shall report to the ICP in the lobby or if staffed, the Lobby Control Unit. Upon the establishment of a Staging Area outside the building, units will report into the Staging Area. The Staging Area Manager will relay information on the units available in Staging to the IC, or when staffed, the Operations Section Chief or Lobby Control Unit.

Answer 30

The third and fourth arriving engine companies shall:
A. Report to the IC.
B. Operate in a manner similar to the first and second engine companies to stretch the second hoseline.
C. Stretch and operate the second hoseline as directed by the Fire Sector Supervisor or Fire Branch Director or the IC if the Fire Sector/Branch has not been established. This hoseline may be used to:
1. Reinforce the position of the first line.
2. Protect the position of the first line.
3. Protect the search and evacuation of the fire floor.
4. Contain and confine fire spread and/or prevent fire wrapping around the core and endangering operation of the first line.

Question 31

GREATER ALARM ENGINE COMPANIES
9.6.1 Greater alarm or special called engine companies shall report to the ICP in the lobby or if staffed, the Lobby Control Unit. Upon the establishment of a Staging Area outside the building, units will report into the Staging Area. The Staging Area Manager will relay information on the units available in Staging to the IC or when staffed, the Operations Section Chief or the Lobby Control Unit. Units may be assigned to:
A. Relieve any of the first alarm units.
B. Stretch additional hoseline on the fire floor or the floors above.
C. Assist in the search and evacuation of upper floors.
D. Transport special tools and equipment to the Forward Staging Area.

Answer 31

9.6.2 Units without specific orders to the contrary shall bring SCBAs, rolled up lengths and spare SCBA cylinders to lobby area. If not required for their specific use, such equipment will be added to Forward Staging Area supply for future use by units engaged in actual firefighting operations.

Question 32

Rule RCNY 6-02 was promulgated as a result of LL 26/2004 and applies to Class “E” office buildings. This Local Law mandates the adoption of standards including procedures and requirements for the protection of occupants of certain office buildings in response to non-fire emergencies caused by explosion, biological, chemical, radiological, nuclear, natural disaster, or the threat thereof, or declaration of emergency by lawful authority.
1.2 Local Law 26 expanded the role of the Fire Safety Director to an Emergency Action Plan Director (FS/EAPD) who is responsible for managing non-fire emergencies in Class “E” office buildings.

Answer 32

First arriving units should be met at the Fire Command Station by one of the following:
 Fire Safety/Emergency Action Plan Director (FS/EAPD)
 Deputy Fire Safety/Emergency Action Plan Director (DFS/EAPD)
 Fire Safety/Emergency Action Plan Building Evacuation Supervisor(FS/EAPBES)
—The following items are maintained at the Fire Command Station:  Building Information Card (BIC)
 A list of special needs occupants and their location in the building, who have requested assistance in the event the EAP is implemented.
Note: The BIC can provide valuable information to the IC in the event of a fire as well as non- fire emergencies. It can be used in developing strategies and making tactical decisions.

Question 33

There are four different procedures that a FS/EAPD can implement to safeguard occupants in the event of an emergency.

1. Shelter in Place
2. In-Building Relocation
3. Partial Building Evacuation
4. Full Building Evacuation

FULL  SIP
FULL- full evacuation
S-shelther in place
I-in building relocation
P-partial evacuation

–The FS/EAPD is responsible for communicating with building occupants during emergencies utilizing the building’s Fire Alarm Communications System. Announcements should be made on a regular basis to keep occupants up to date on the progress of the incident. The Incident Commander can also direct the FS/EAPD to make announcements as necessary.

Answer 33

The first arriving units should request a briefing on any and all actions taken prior to their arrival. Units should be aware that the FS/EAPD is authorized to implement the EAP and take actions to ensure occupant safety. These actions may include: elevator recall, public announcements and evacuations.
Note: The use of elevators by building personnel to facilitate the movement of occupants is permissible and should be anticipated under the EAP.
(under non fire emergencies)