Actions to Limit the Spread of a Structure Fire

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Table of Contents

Introduction
Discussion
Conclusion
References

Introduction

This paper aims to outline the key to preventing actions against the spread of a structure fire. In addition, it is important to understand which mistakes of fire companies may worsen the situation. In the formal sense, structure fire means a fire involving residential, industrial, and commercial buildings and causing damage to the material of the constructed area (MacIntyre, 2021). Different techniques and types of equipment may protect buildings from the rapid spread of flames, so the aim is to briefly show how line choice, ventilation, and water flow rate may increase safety.

Discussion

Firstly, it is important to select a hose line of appropriate size because taking a small size line to a big fire may cause bad consequences. In general, there are three common sizes of hose lines: 1½, 1¾, and 2½ inches (van der Feyst, 2022). The larger the fire line, the more intense the water will move to the place of ignition. Although it seems important to have a larger line, in reality, hoses are extremely heavy and difficult to maneuver (Scangas et al., 2017). For example, the operation of 2½ inch line requires three to four firefighters, while 1¾ one is manageable with two to three people (Scangas et al., 2017). Therefore, fire companies should understand the essence of a fire in advance in order to choose the appropriate size of hose line.

Secondly, the proper functioning of ventilation may greatly contribute to successfully extinguishing a fire. The basic feature of fire ventilation is that it changes the conditions in a burning building in a controlled way with the intention of releasing heat and fire gases out of the building (Svensson, 2020). It improves the working conditions for firefighters by reducing the effect of smoke and heat on firefighters and trapped people (Svensson, 2020). In addition, as research by the UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute shows, the access of oxygen to the building substantially increases the time from ignition to the start of suppression. Therefore, fire companies should collaborate with companies responsible for licensing ventilation and determining the quality of their work.

Thirdly, modern technologies provide more water at a greater gallon per minute (GPM) rate than before. Higher GPM flow rates are needed when the high temperature (more than 1,200 degrees F) creates the necessary conditions for flashover (Knowles, 2021). Therefore, the high GPM rate is essential for fire companies because it allows them to immediately flow their handline as soon as the door to the compartment is opened (Knowles, 2021). Such an increase in efficiency should encourage companies to modernize their equipment for satisfactory GPM.

Finally, companies should develop guidelines to help firefighters distinguish between defensive and offensive attack situations. The difference is that an offensive attack means controlling the building immediately by entering it and moving ‘aggressively’. In contrast, a defensive attack refers to a safe approach when the fire is out of control (Smith, 2021). Fire agencies should decrease the number of defensive strategies when a lack of water supply or the absence of equipment causes them. Nevertheless, it is important to protect the well-being of firefighters and not expose them to unnecessary death or injury threats.

Conclusion

To conclude, this paper discussed three different spheres fire companies should address in their strive for better quality of operation. The selection of hose lines should be properly administered because heavy lines may create barriers for firefighters. Ventilation should also be verified and checked for quality because it is an important factor during extinguishing. Also, companies should modernize equipment for a higher GPM rate because it greatly increases the chances of preventing flashovers.

References

Knowles, J. (2021). Engine essentials: Initial handline considerations for commercial fires. Fire Line Newsletter. Web.

MacIntyre, J. D., Abu, A. K., Moss, P. J., Nilsson, D., & Wade, C. A. (2022). A review of methods for determining structural fire severity—Part I: A historical perspective. Fire and materials, 46(1), 153-167. Web.

Madrzykowski, D., & Weinschenk, C. (2019). Impact of fixed ventilation on fire damage patterns in full-scale structures. National Criminal Justice Reference Service. Web.

Scangas, C. A., Murphy, J. J., Donovan, J. T., & Gates, P. C. (2017). An analysis of modern day fire attack hose.Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Web.

Smith, J. P. (2021). Fire studies: Defensive and transitional modes of fire attack. Firehouse. Web.

Svensson, S. (2020). Fire ventilation. Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency.Web.

van der Feyst, M., Wehrle, M., & Wiggins, R. (2022). The Tactical Firefighter. Fire Engineering Books.

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Actions to Limit the Spread of a Structure Fire

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