pump ops Chap 4 Flashcards
What determines an ARFF airport index?
The length of aircraft and average number of daily departures of those aircraft.
What is the ‘inside/outside method’ for positioning pumpers and aerials on a building less than 5 stories?
Attack pumper(s) on same side as building, aerial apparatus placed outside (outboard) of the pumper(s).
What is the ‘inside/outside method’ for buildings over 5 stories?
Attack pumper(s) positioned outside, aerial apparatus closer to the building for maximum reach.
Why must a pumper avoid blocking access for aerial devices?
Blocking access can jeopardize the incident outcome and aerial device placement is critical for reach.
When is Level I Staging used?
For multi-unit responses. First-arriving units proceed, others stage 1–2 blocks away until ordered.
What is Level II Staging?
Used for large-scale incidents; apparatus go to a remote location designated by Operations Section Officer.
Why should pumpers not park under overhead utility lines?
It is especially dangerous during fire or severe weather as lines may fall.
What does tandem pumping provide that standard pumping may not?
Higher pressures required than one pumper can supply.
What is the preferred position of a pumper during a hazardous materials incident?
Well short of the scene, approaching from upwind and uphill until hazard is confirmed.
Define ‘Hot Zone’ during hazmat incidents.
The area closest to the release with hazardous exposure; technician-level personnel only.
What is the ‘Cold Zone’ during a hazmat incident?
Safe area with command post, staging, triage; no special PPE required.
What’s the recommended collapse zone distance for a 20’ building?
At least 30 feet (1.5 times the building height).
What is the purpose of preincident planning for collapse?
To identify buildings at high risk of collapse even before an incident occurs.
What is the driver/operator’s responsibility when aerials are present?
Seek the best position for their pumper and avoid blocking aerial access.
What should driver/operators consider with wind direction during positioning?
Position apparatus upwind of the incident to avoid exposure.
How far should apparatus park from high-rise structures during fire?
At least 200 feet (60 m) to avoid falling glass and debris.
Where should driver/operators position for structural collapse potential?
Outside the collapse zone; corners of the building are safest.
What must the first-arriving driver/operator do when fire conditions are evident?
Place the apparatus in a safe position that offers the best tactical advantage and allows for withdrawal if necessary.
Why should a pumper pull past the front of the building in investigation mode?
Allows personnel to view three sides of the building.
Why is it important to lay supply lines in accessible areas?
To allow later-arriving units to access the scene without obstruction.
When should onboard tank water be used?
Only after a proper size-up confirms the fire location and extent.
What is the primary concern for the driver/operator and company officer on arrival?
Establishing a water supply.
What should a driver/operator consider in limited access areas?
First-arriving pumper should lay its own supply line.
What is a major benefit of positioning upwind of the incident?
Reduces the need for SCBA and lowers apparatus exposure risk.
Where should apparatus be parked for wildland fires?
Downhill of the main fire body, as wildland fires move uphill faster.
Why park on hard surfaces when possible?
To avoid ice, snow, or unstable ground which could cause apparatus instability.
Why should you avoid soft banks at drafting sites?
They can collapse, injure firefighters, or tip the apparatus.
What are structural collapse indicators?
Bulging walls, falling bricks, traveling cracks, ornamental stars or bolts.
Why should apparatus be placed at corners of buildings?
They are considered safer if a collapse occurs.
Why maintain a collapse zone?
To protect personnel and apparatus from falling debris during structural failure.
Why must hard intake hose connected to hydrants be pressure-rated?
Because hard intake hose is typically not designed for positive pressure.
Why place gate valves on hydrants?
Allows connection of additional hoselines without shutting down the hydrant.
What’s the preferred hose type for hydrant connection?
Large diameter intake hose (LDH).
What is the optimal distance from curb to hydrant for side intake connections?
A few feet short of alignment to prevent kinks and ensure proper hose twist.
What is dual pumping?
A strong hydrant supplies two pumpers positioned close together.
When is tandem pumping used?
When higher pressures are needed than one pumper can provide, such as high-rises.
What is the maximum recommended spacing for tandem pumping?
Up to 300 feet (90 m).
What is the risk of tandem pumping?
Exceeding hose pressure limits.
What is a dry hydrant?
A permanent pipe installation at a static water source with a shore-side connection.
Why are boat ramps ideal drafting locations?
They’re accessible, hard-surfaced, and minimize lift distance.
What is the standard connection distance for drafting?
15 inches (375 mm).
What is the purpose of preplanning draft sites?
Identify access points, volume, and location before emergencies.
Why keep windows and doors closed in wildland fire apparatus?
To prevent heat and ember intrusion.
Why use anchor points in wildland fire attack?
To reduce risk and maintain safe working zones.
What is mop-up?
Extinguishing or removing burning materials after initial fire attack.
Where should Level I staging units stop?
Approximately one block from the scene in their direction of travel.
Who becomes the initial Staging Area Manager in Level II staging?
The Company Officer of the first unit to arrive at staging.
What are the staging area requirements?
Large, secure area free of civilian traffic, like a parking lot or field.
Where should EMS apparatus park at incidents?
Off the road, with space for ambulance access and lights off when possible.
What control zone contains the decontamination corridor?
Warm Zone.
What PPE is required in the Cold Zone during hazmat response?
None.
Where is the apparatus placed in hazardous materials incidents?
Uphill, upwind, and well short of the scene until hazards are confirmed.
What’s a safe apparatus clearance near rail tracks?
At least 30 feet (9 meters).
What should be done before laying hose across railroad tracks?
Confirm rail traffic is halted with the railroad company.
How should pumpers approach bridge incidents?
Use aerial devices or ladder for hose lays if over/underpass is inaccessible.
Why should you not park under overhead wires?
They may fall during fire or storm, posing serious risks.
Why back into position at wildland incidents?
So the apparatus faces the escape route.
Why must driver/operators know local light/siren policies?
To comply with DOT MUTCD guidelines and coordinate safely with law enforcement.
