Questions Flashcards
List some of the hazards encountered during basement fires.
• Metabolic heat stress
• High temperatures/arduous conditions
• Presence of a heat barrier
• limited ventilation leading to rapid fire growth /
flashover / backdraught
• Uncontrolled ventilation elsewhere in building
• Ducting / voids leading to unchecked spread
• Complex layout,may extend beyond building
footprint
• Lack of landmarks, poor light, cramped spaces
• Poor housekeeping,poor storage/high fireloading
• Access/Egress, long travel distance, congestion
• Utility intakes
• Comms difficulties
What equipment can assist crews information gathering when entering a basement?
TIC
Why must crews ensure access routes are clear before commencing firefighting?
Expansion of steam may cause conditions to worsen at the access / egress points.
Should HVAC systems be operated by crews to improve conditions?
ONLY on advice from a senior fire safety officer / IC. Unauthorised use may lead to unchecked fire spread.
What action can improve conditions for teams prior to entry, and what safe systems of work must be in place?
Ventilation prior to entry. This can only be on the IC orders. All personnel must be withdrawn and charged covering jets must be in place before ventilation takes place.
Where can you find information on a buildings basement?
- Plans
- LFB Box
- ORD / MDT
- Local Knowledge
What fixed Installations can you expect?
Who can advise on the use of certain installations?
- AFA
- Falling main
- Foam inlet
- Sprinklers
- protected shaft / fire lobby / fire lift
- HVAC System / smoke extraction
- Gas suppression
Advice can be sought from a senior fire safety officer (SFSO)
Should a covering jet ever be discharged through a ventilation opening?
No- this will push products of combustion back through the opening, as well as entraining air. It may also strike crews inside.
Can wearers be re-committed at a basement fire?
Where possible no, due to the arduous conditions often found at basement fires.
What access / egress methods or openings may you find in a basement?
- Staircase
- Jacobs ladder
- Chute
- Cellar Hatch / Trap door
- Pavement lights
- Stallboard lights
- Smoke vents
What considerations should you make in pub / restaurant cellars / basements
- Utility supplies / intakes ( gas for kitchens)
- Cylinders
- Gas charging system
- Poor housekeeping
- Extract Ducting
What considerations should you make for commercial premises basements?
- Utility intakes ( high voltage LX )
- Plant / machinery rooms
- Gas suppression
- Poor housekeeping
