FDNY Final Study Guide
SCBA
CBRN – Chemical
Biological
Radiation
Nuclear
Confined Spaces – defined as any space not designed for continual habitation, limited mean for
entry and exit, large enough so a person can enter and work. eg basements, Sub basements,
crawl spaces, cocklofts, ship holds etc.
Limits of protection
Anywhere the mask is not covering, example ruptured eardrum; it’s not a hazmat suit.
Do Not use underwater
Actual Working time will vary from person to person – if out of air member should remove the
regulator from the facepiece.
Carbon Monoxide
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Odorless / colorless
Tasteless
Cumulative
Explosive
Non-irritanting, Toxic Gas
Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) – 12.5% PPM
Upper Explosive Limit (UEL) – 74% PPM
1128F – ignition Temperature
Hemoglobin in the blood is 210 times more attracted to CO than Oxygen
CO poisoning is Cumulative
Parts of the SCBA
Backframe and Harness Assembly
Check welds and straps during inspection
Breathing Air cylinder
Holds Purified breathing air
4500PSI
Service Life – 15 years
Hyrdostatic tested every 5 years
SOC escape cylinders need to be tested every 3 years
30 min cylinder = ~1200 liters
45min cylinder = ~1800 liters
60min cylinder =~2400 liters
End of service time indicator (EOSTI) alarms (Vibalert and Hud) when 25% air is
remaining.
Working time varies by physical condition, physical activity, atmospheric pressure,
degree of
training, fear, excitement, improperly fitted facepiece
Training Cyclinders have a blue top and are NOT to be used in the field.
High Pressure Hose and Coupling
Never tighten with a wrench
UAC (Universal Air Connection)
Permits emercency air replenishment
Do not use to Charge Cylinder
PRA (Pressure Reducer Assembly)
Steps pressure to 100PSI for Primary, 150PSI for Secondary, and if both fail will dump
pressure until 185PSI
Low Pressure Hose
Regulator Assembly
Positive Demand Regulator
HUD( Heads up display)
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4 lights on the HUD for volume
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1 light for battery (all the way to the right)
 1 red light – 25% full
 1 yellow light – 50% full
 1 green light – 75% full
 2 green lights = Full
Spraybar – 9 holes
Vibalert Alarm
Activates during the following:
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25% Left in the cylinder
PRA failure
Initially when the cylinder is opened.
Remote Console with PAK Alert SE7 ( PASS Alarm )
Pre Alarm – motionless for 20 seconds / Clear by hitting the yellow reset button or
moving.
Full Alarm – 12 seconds after 20 seconds of prealarm (32 seconds) or you hit the red
button / clear by hitting the yellow reset button TWICE
Turn off by – hitting reset Twice with no Alarm and no air in the system
Inspection of SCBA
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At 0900 and 1800 hour roll call
After Each Use
Before the start of a Multi-Unit drill
Procedure
Check Backframe
Harness Assembly
Facepiece Seals, rubber, voicemitter, 5 Screws Present
Cylinder inspection
High Pressure Hand Coupling and RIC UAC
PRA
Low Pressure Hose
Regulator Assembly
Operation and inspection of PAK Alert
Battery Test
Full Alarm Test Manual Button
Open Cylinder – Check HUD has five lights lit up for 20 seconds then look for full cylinder
2 lights
Check PreAlarm
Check Pre Alarm Reset
Check Full Alarm and Reset
Turn off cylinder – use purge valve to release air
Turn off PAK Alert
Do Personal Adjustments
Cleaning
¼ cup bleach to every 1 gallon of water
SCBA Emergency Procedures
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When trapped or entangled, give Mayday command first, prior to freeing yourself.
Cancel Mayday if you become free and safe
Quick Release Escape (If entangled in the rear)
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Leave facepiece ON if operating in contaminated area
Squeeze alligator clips and fully extend both shoulder straps
With the left hands grasp left shoulder strap as high as possible
Slip right arm through right strap unbuckle waist belt
As left hand continues to grasp shoulder strap member should turn to the their left 180
degrees to face the entangled SCBA
With free right hand sweep entire SCBA to locate obstruction
Free SCBA, if needed use cutting tool kept in right pocket of bunker coat
Place both hands on should straps and back from obstruction
Redon SCBA – Waist buckle then shoulders
Cancel Mayday when member becomes safe
Low Profile Maneuver
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Leave facepiece ON if operating in contaminated area
Squeeze alligator clips and fully extend both shoulder straps
With the left hands grasp left shoulder strap as high as possible
Slip right arm through right strap unbuckle waist belt
As left hand continues to grasp shoulder strap allow SCBA to swing lover left shouldrer
to front of body
Lay SCBA down on cylinder (cylinder down/bumper facing away from you), push in front
of you
Once overhead construction in cleared Redon SCBA
Reduced Profile Maneuver
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Leave facepiece ON if operating in contaminated area
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Squeeze alligator clips and fully extend both shoulder straps
Slip the right arm through the right shoulder strap and grasp waist belt without
unbuckling
While right hand grasps waist belt buckle and left hand grasp cylinder at the rubber
bumper, twist the entire SCBA assembly as far left as you can to clear obstacle
Use right hand to guide though obstacle
After passing obstacle, redon SCBA
SWIM Move
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Place right knee, right shoulder, and head through studs (place left shoulder though first
may cause low pressure hose to get pinched on the object you are trying to pass, cutting
off air)
Bring left arm over left should in swimming motion
Once though continue search for means of egress
Damaged Face Piece
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Leave Face piece ON to provide respiratory protection
Conserve as much Air as possible by covering damaged area with one hand
If leak is more than can be controlled with one hand
• Continue to cover
• Press the manual shutoff switch after each breath to further limit the loss of
air
• If damage is too large use purge valve in an ON and Off motion for each
Breath
Notify Officer and leave contaminated Area – MUST be Accompanied to a safe area by
another member donning SCBA
Face Piece Sharing
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SHARING FACE PIECE WITH OTHER MEMBERS OR CIVILIANS IS PROHIBITED!
Remove member from Area immediately if not possible then
For trapped members utilize nearest available Fast Pak
For civilians utilize Fast Pak other than the one assigned to the the FAST unit.
Utilize a spare SCBA to provide air strictly to the trapped member or civilian
Communication
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PLACE the MICROPHONE DIRECTLY ON THE VOICEMITTTER
Emergency Touch Signals
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When a member strikes another member with 4 distinct blows on the shoulder then
pulls that member in a specific direction, he knows of an emergency
Emergency Distress
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Distressed Members should press Pak Alert – they MUST notify their officer and be
accompanied to a safe area by another member using SCBA
Emergency HT Communications MAYDAYS and URGENTS
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Whenever emergency button has been pressed or Mayday or urgent are transmitted all
HT communications are to stop except person and incident commander
Press emergency alert button (EAB) button to boost power from 2W to 5W – 3 Mayday
or Urgents
Resume normal HT comms after emergency message
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Anytime and building is evacuated units shall account for all members in preparation for
a roll call by Incident Commander.
Mayday Transmissions
MAYDAY TRANSMISSIONS TAKE PRECEDENCE OVER URGENT
When a mayday or urgent is transmitted, all HT traffic ceases except for member transmitting
and IC
Mayday Transmissions (I, O, U, My, Life)
• Imminent collapse
• Collapse has occurred
• Unconscious member
• Missing member
• Lost or trapped member
Missing Member Mayday Information (LUNAR)
• Last known location
• Unit assignment if a detailed member
• Name of member
• Assignment of member
• Resources needed
Member Trapped or Lost
• Number/identity of members involved
• Location or last reference point
• Imminent conditions which may impact trapped member
Urgent Transmissions (DCWIFE70)
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Discontinue interior attack, begin exterior attack
Change in conditions that could affect operations
Water Loss (burst length etc.)
Injury to member (non life threatening requiring medical attention)
Fear of collapse
Exposure (fire entering an exposure)
10-70 (cannot find a positive water source)
Feedback Assisted Rescue: One member place two radios together and keys mike to create
feedback. All other switch channels during operation so that only the endanger members radio
sounds the feedback
Unconscious FF Removal
Webbing is only used for dragging victims, No vertical Lifts
Webbing specs – 1” Nylon 20ft in length, breaking strength = 4,000 lbs, Knotted breaking
strength = 3,000lbs. Should be inspected monthly and after each use.
Transmit Mayday / Urgent, LUNAR, Update IC, get identification of the member to the IC,
Secure the Removal Route.
Once Member is Located – Follow FAIR – Fire/environment / AIR / Immediate Medical Care /
Removal
Fast Pak Should be requested to resupply air to member two ways – high pressure or low pressure.
High Pressure is done though the UAC, if SCBA is in doubt DO NOT USE High pressure
System.
Low Pressure is done via – Fast Pak regulator with member's face piece, Hansen fitting, Fast Pak
facepiece and regulator.
IF NO FAST PAK start Removal procedure. Member in distress should not remove their
facepiece. If no air, remove regulator.
Removal – two types – horizontal and vertical.
Identification
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Conscious member – Name, Unit working in that tour, assignment.
Unconscious member – Activate EAB, position on right side, name on bunker coat,
PRA identification number, helmet front piece, engraved Id on handie talkie.
Packaging of a member – SCBA straps and personal harness, nylon tubular webbing, stokes
basket, SKED stretcher.
Fast Board – portable workstation shows members HT ID when communication.
Activation of a member’s EAB will Identify them on the EFAS (Electronic Fire-ground
Accountability System). Key the mic if you cannot activate EAB to identify them via EFAS.
Methods of packaging an unconscious FF are:
• Use of SCBA straps and personal harness
• Nylon Tubular Webbing
• Stokes Basket/Backboard
• SKED Stretcher
Prior to starting the removal procedure – face the members head toward the exit.
ROPES
Life Saving Rope
Material
Nylon
Breaking Strength
9000lbs
WorkLoad
600lbs
Length
150ft – Shrinkage of 8
– 10 feet overtime
Inspection/repacking - Engine companies = Every Tuesday 9X6. All other companies
inspect/repack on Mondays 9X6
When soaked for 24 hours rope looses 10 – 15 % of its strength.
Place Out of Service When
Deputy
Doubt
Tony
Two – weight of 2 people
Hit
Heat – 300 degrees looses
strength; 482 melts
A
Abrasions
Home
Hockle - one hockle reduces
strength by 40-50%
Run
Rust persistent wash first soap
and water
Far
Frozen
Away
Acid or Acid Fumes
Knots and Hitches
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Hitch – Temporary method of securing an object; easly undone
Bend – tying of two ends together Eg Becket Bend
Knot – tying parts of one of more ropes so they will not slip ie Bowline
Bight – formed by making a loop in the rope
Working End – part of the rope which is used to tie the knot
Standing end – long unused port of the rope
Binder – Secure a knot
Three measured knots include:
Bowline and a Bight
1.5 Arm length
Rolling Hitch
1.5 Arm Length
Bowline
1.5 Arm length with a 12"
tail
Usage of the Knots:
Half Hitch – hoisting and lowering tools and equipment and a binder to secure knots
Clove Hitch – hoisting and lowering tools, equipment and hoses. ALWAYS use Binder.
Slipover Clove Hitch –hoisting hook, halligan, tools, extinguisher
Bowline knot – hoisting ladders UP and IN DOWN and OUT
Becket Bend – hoisting portable deluge nozzles over 60 feet
Rolling Hitch – secure hose lines that were hoisted outside of the building.
Hand Cuff Knot – drag a victim out by either wrists of ankles (Capt Fowler Knot)
Bowline on a Bight – Lower FF to rescue people
Slippery Hitch – Used in conjunction with Bowline on a bight to lower FF off buildings
Clove Hitch and a binder on the Taught Part of the rope or Substantial Object Knot – used to
tie off as an anchor point when lowering a member.
Figure 8 Knot – tied at the end of a rope and keeps the rope from slipping out.
Butterfly Knot – Make a loop in the middle of a rope / used as a tie off point or three
dimensional pull
Water knot with 1” Nylon - Assist in the removal of an unconscious member / Only be used for
DRAGGING victims NO vertical lifts
Nylon Specs
1” Nylong tubular webbing Length =
20’
Breaking Strength = 4000 lbs
Knotted breaking Strength = 3000 lbs
Personal Harness
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Members MUST attaché the harness snap hook to the waistband “D” ring EVERYTIME
they don their bunker pants
Personal harness has a minimum breaking strength of 6000 pounds
Rappel hook has a triple action lock
Belly Strap slide buckle is used only to ensure the proper position of the harness handle
and rappel hook. The red waistband slide buckle is used to insure a snug fit.
In a situation that dictates the use of the personal safety system only the handle support
strap should be released.
Snap hook and waistband D ring will be on the left side of the body.
Inspection of Harness
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Start of each Tour and after Each use
Look for cuts, abrasions, discoloration damaged stitching, operation of rappel hook gate
If any abnormalities exit place out of service
If persistent or unknown stains place out of service
Do not Repair or modify
If grossly contaminated place out of service
Maintenance
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IF wet lay out to air dry – DO NOT lay in sunlight
When dry re-inspect harness
LSR Packing
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Coil entire rope in a 4 foot diameter CLOCKWISE circle
Place hook of LSR in Left Front Corner of bag
Make 2 circles and coil in a COUNTERCLOCKWISE motion
Remove 3ft of rope place antichaffing device on this section
Tie a bowline on a bight
Fold Antichaffing device and bowline on a bight and put it the rear of the bag
Pass hook though top of bag and place in the pocket on top of the flap
Care and maintenance
• Clean bag with mild soap and water make sure it's dry
• Each time rope is repacked pack shall be checked for dryness and cleanness.
Anti-Chaffing device - 3-ply canvas – 5” x 24” inch long
PSS System
PSS system is a one time use system.
PSS Inspection – at the start of each tour and after every structural fire
REPACKED - semi-annually.
Carbineer to the BOTTOM on the D-Ring
Figure 8 stopper knot is used at the end of the 50ft PSS rope.
8” inches of rope must remain between the eye of the hook and EXO
18” inches of rope between the eye of the hook and bag
***MAYDAY must be transmitted prior to deploying PSS****
If conditions permit tying off to a substantial object is preferred.
Hook load capacity – 5K at the Tip, 10K at the saddle
Rope Type – Kernmantle – material = Technora sheath / core
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Rope Diameter – 7.5mm
Rope Length – 50ft
Rope Tensile Strength – 3034 pounds
Working Load – 300lbs
Anchor to a substatianal object if you can, use a 2 half hitches.
Exit window – EXO must be brought to a point beyond the outermost edge of the windowsill.
Leading with your right hand will be the most effective way to exit room.
The forward roll eliminated the need to straddle the window and keep member in lower
portion of the window below high heat.
Left hand MUST maintain its grasp on the interior wall until the body is in an upright position.
If conditions permit, member shall descend to ground level.
High Rise Rescue pickup
LSR bag is midway between the substantial object and the roof edge; Snaps facing the substantial
object. Use a clove hitch and a binder on the taut part of the rope to secure the LSR to the
substantial object. LSR MUST BE PLACED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE WINDOW when doing
a high rise rescue pickup. The FIRST stop is at the top of the window - Tell the victim to stay
put. The SECOND stop is when the member becomes eye-level with the victim
Search Rope
White nylon – Snap hooks at both ends
Diameter – 5/16 inches or 7.5mm kermantle, Length = 200 feet (175' with all knots tied)
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Rope is packed in a yellow carrying case marked with the unit’s number
Rope is used to search large or maze like areas
Not an LSR
If more than 200 feet is needed a second rope can be snapped to the first
One end of the rope is attached to a substantial object – Case is put over shoulder and
deployed as you search
• Rope may be short 25ft overtime due to shrinkage
• The first 25ft distance knot will not have a direction knot, because it’s closer to the tie
off.
• Directional knots are within 18” of the distance knot.
• Distance knots 6” from each other.
• Officer plays out the rope.
Maintenance:
• Inspect after each use
• Store in a dry compartment on the apparatus
• Repack quarterly from the opposite end
Dump bag make 4 foot counterclockwise circle with the entire rope. Snap hook to the bottom
of bag. Make clockwise circles into the bag until the bag is packed. Pass hook through covers
and snap to ring on the top of bag.
Chemistry of Fire
Fire Tetrahedron
1) Oxygen
2) Fuel
3) Heat
4) Self Sustaining Chemical Reaction
Fuel – may be found as a Solid, Liquid or Gas. ONLY GASES BURN.
***Pyrolysis – a state change from a solid to a gas due to the addition of heat. ***
Vaporization – a state change from a liquid to a gas due to the addition of heat.
Gaseous fuels are the most dangerous, they are already ready for iginition.
Products of Combustion – Heat, Light (flame), Smoke (unburned fuel).
Types of Fire Transfer
Conduction – heat from on body to another by direct contact. Think – fire in one room heat
pipes up and causes a fire in another part of the building.
Convection – transfer of heat by movement of air or liquid. Heated air in building will rise; fire
spread is mostly in an upward direction. Fire spread though hallways, corridors, shafts in mostly
convection. Direct flame contact
Radiation – heat transfer by the air. Think - infra-red or the sun.
*Heat is ALWAYS transferred from a high heat/high pressure area to a low heat/low pressure
area.
The Hotter the Smoke the Faster it will Travel
Pressure
Fire in a confined space will create a smoke flow from a high to a low
Factors Affecting Fire Development
Combustible content – Fuel load
Oxygen Supply – Ventilation opening
Size of Room
Insulation of Room
Phases of fire
Incipient phase
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Earliest phase of the fire – actual ignition
Flame temperature above 1,000F
Rollover / Flameover
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Free burning fire
Smoke and superheated gases collect at ceiling
Superheated vapors ignite
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Flame rolls across ceiling
Only gases are burned
Last warning before a flashover
Steady State Burning Phase
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High Oxygen
Full fire involvement
Thermally balanced
Flashover
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Simultaneous ignition of all combustibles in room
Ceiling/ walls stops absorbing heat
Smoke and gases reach ignition temp 900 – 1300
FF Must be within 5 feet of an exit
Hot Smoldering Phase
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Oxygen Below 15%
Temperature throughout is high
CO and carbon may cause backdraft
Backdraft
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Air admitted into a superheated room
Low Oxygen
High Heat
Smoldering fire
High Fuel Vapor concentrations
Fire Extinguishment theory
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Temperature Reduction
Fuel Removal
Oxygen Dilution
Chemical Flame Inhibition
Ladder Company Tools
Hooks – 2 types
Wood – pike end – non conductive
Halligan hook – shaft metal or fiberglass
Sizes – 6ft, 10ft, 12ft, 15ft, 20ft ----- 6ft is the most common
Uses – Pulling ceiling, releasing drop ladders, venting windows
Can – 100psi 2.5 gallons of water
Axe – 2 types
Flathead – used for forcible entry, carried with halligan known as a “set of irons”
Pikehead – used by ladder chauffer
Uses – cut floor and or roof at a 60 deg angle
Halligan Tool – Carried by Forcible Entry or the roof and outside vent FF
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Pike
Adz
Fork End
Rabbit Tool -
1) Forcible Entry – hydraulic hand pump
2) 25lbs
3) 4 tons (8,000lbs) opening force
4) Uses – Elevator doors and inward doors only NO AUTOS
HydraRam -
1) Forcible Entry tool – hydraulic
2) Weight 12 lbs
3) 5 tons ( 10,000lbs) opening force
4) Jaws open ¾” to 4”
5) Inward and Outward door, trunks hoods etc
K-Tool – Remove and or pull out lock cylinders
Bolt Cutters – SHOULD not be used to cut though case hardened steel
Duck Bill – forcing Padlocks Off
Torch – Oxygen and MAPP gas
Hydrant main shut off – 17 turns shuts off a hydrant - Aerial Ladders carry it
Rungs – 14 inches apart
Leg Lock – 2 rungs above the position where the member is standing
Tormentors – hydraulic supports direct frame attachement
Rear mount (100ft ladder) – 2 tormentors adjacent to turntable
Tiller (100ft Ladder) – 2 tormentors adjacent to turntable
Tower ladder( 75ft, 95ft) – supported at 6 points; each corner and two outriggers.
Aerial Ladder USE
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L – Ladder pipe operations
O- Observation post to assess conditions
V –Ventilation
E – Entry
R -Rescue
S – Search
Aerial Ladder Placement
Underside of the beam 2” – 6” inches from objective
Roof – at LEAST 5 ft above where ladder comes in contact with the building
Window – LESS Than 6” over the sill – recommended distance of the tip from the objective is 2”
to 6” – Rescue should use 2” positioning.
Alongside Fire Escape – Tip should be 1 -3 ft above balcony railing, against the building (2” out)
Aerial Stretch
Hose on the left of the aerial ladder.
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Officer – climbs ladder first enters windows, orders line, and water once enough hose is
stretched.
Nozzle FF – climbs aerial with nozzle under left arm over right shoulder. Enters window
Backup FF – climbs ladder to the top rung of aerial and clips in. secure the hose with a
hose strap.
Doorman FF – middle of Aerial and snaps life belt hook on rung. Secure the hose with a
hose strap.
Control FF – positions to feed hose up ladder.
FAST TEAMS
1 ENGINE CO (4FF)
1 ENGINE CO (5 FF)
1 LADDER CO (4FF)
1 LADDER CO (5FF)
1 ENGINE AND 1 LADDER
(4FF)
1 ENGINE AND 1 LADDER
(5FF)
2 ENGINE COMPANIES
FAST UNIT O/S
2 FF’S DESIGNATED BY OFFICER
CONTROL AND DOOR FF’S
LCC & Outside FF designated by the officer
LCC & OV
CONTROL AND LCC
CONTROL AND OV
Backup and Control FF of 2nd Arriving Engine
ENTIRE UNIT ASSUMES DUTIES OF THE
SAFETY TEAM
Ladder Company Operations
First Due Ladder to arrive responsibilities
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Ladder company operations on fire floor
Determine life hazard and rescue as required
Roof ventilation and a visual check of rear and side from this level.
Laddering as needed
If second Ladder Company will not arrive within a reasonable time, make interior search
and removal of endangered occupants above the fire.
Second ladder Company to Arrive
 All Floors above the fire floor for search removal ventilation and to check for fire
extension.
 Confirm roof ventilation.
 Check rear and sides of buildings
 Reinforce laddering and removal operations when necessary.
Ladder Company Operations Size up ("COAL WAS WEALTH")
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Time – governs life hazard
Life – Most severe factor to life
Area – building or occupancy area
Height – govern use of aerial,TL or Portable Ladder
Construction – Energy Efficient Winodws, non-fireproof contains vertical voids that
allow for extension. Fire escapes present?
Occupancy – Determines the severity of the life hazard
Location and Exterior of Fire – Fire in cellar, shaft or apt determine areas to be searched.
Water Supply – hydrant availability
Street Conditions – effective apparatus placement.
Auxiliary Appliances – Standpipe / sprinklers location of outlets
Weather – wind, snow, freezing.
Apparatus and Equipment – Be aware of the units on the scene units assigned to the
alarm.
Exposures – maybe adjoining building or areas within fire building itself (auto exposure).
Tenements – No Front Fire Escape – Fire in the Cellar, 1st and or 2nd floor ladder adjacent to and
above the fire area.
Tenements – Front Fire Escape – Raise ladder to first balcony opposite drop ladder, if more
relieve is needed raise to second balcony.
Tenements and MD’s with Rear Fire Escapes – relieve overcrowding with a gooseneck ladder to
the roof. If Party wall Balcony present and adjoining building is on fire then bring ladders though
the 1st floor to rear yard. Utilize 12’ hook ladder to gain access to various balconies.
BrownStones – Typically no Fire Escapes – Laddering Front – Ladder should NOT be placed over
front stoop, but to the adjoining window of it.
Brownstones – Laddering the Rear – Ladder though the second floor of an adjoining
brownstone butts facing rear of building. RowFrame transporting typically easier.
4th floor – 35’ extension ladder
3rd floor – 25’ or 35’ extension ladder
2nd floor – 16’ or 25’ extension ladder or 10’ -14’ “A” Frame
Place Ladders upwind when Venting a window – placement of tip should be slightly above or
level with the top of the window.
Fire Proof Multiple Dwellings Tactics / Wind Driven
When the Fire Apt door has been left open and the windows fail the Public Hall becomes
part of the fire area.
When moving down a public hallway of a Fireproof multiple dwelling hallways 2 2.5”
hoselines may be needed when wind is opposing the hoseline advance. All efforts should
initially be made from one stairway.
Variables that affect smoke movement are – Height of building, stack effect, construction,
surrounding structures, HVAC and WIND.
Generally have 2 fireproof stairways, if smaller (4 – 6 stories) will have 1 fireproof stairway.
With two stairways only the attack stairway will be the primary means for vertical
ventilation.
Only the Ladder Officer shall initiate a request to vent.
All members must access the fire floor from the same stairway until the attack stairway has
been determined. Flow path of fire will flow toward the stairwell.
Height and Area: 4 – 40 or higher stories. Possibly an irregular shape, Double H, Star,
Semicircular may have elevators compactors standpipes and sprinklers.
First Floor – large stores, supermarkets, day care centers.
Cellars and Basements – parking garages, laundry rooms, meeting rooms stock area, compactors,
and incinerators.
Elevators – only to be used when the fire is on the eighth floor or above. One elevator on standby
in the lobby the other two floor below the fire. Take Elevators to at least two floors below the fire
apt.
Forcible Entry – adjoining apts may be forced for sufficient reasons such has high carbon
monoxide reading. Must be on the same side as the fire Apt. Do not chock the door open until a
charged hose line is moving into the apt.
KO Curtain and WCD (Wind Control Devices) -Immediate reduction in heat and fire intensity.
Reduction of visibility, possible autoexposure to floor above, advancing hoseline in fire apt
POSITIONS and TOOL ASSIGNMENTS
Non-Fireproof MD Positions
Position
1st due Can
Tools
6ft hook and water
extinguisher
2nd due Can
Same as 1st except for top
floor fire take 2 6ft hooks
1st due Irons
Axe and halligan or Maul
and hydraRam (rabbit tool)
2nd due Irons
Same as 1st due Irons
1st due OV
6ft hook and halligan.
Variations: Top floor fire –
go to roof with saw and
halligan. If company is a
TL with no fire escapes
operate as basket FF for
vent. Store fire – vent the
rear of store from exterior.
6ft hook and halligan; does
not take Saw to roof
2nd due OV
1st due Roof
6ft Halligan Hook, Halligan
and LSR
2nd due Roof
6ft Halligan Hook,
Halligan; Top floor Fires –
saw and the halligan hook
are taken.
Whatever they want.
1st due Chauffer
Duties
Door to the fire area via
interior stairs, forcible entry,
locate fire, search and
removal of victims
Door directly above fire
area via interior stairs, top
floor go to adjacent apt.
adjacent apt to the one
above may be more severely
exposed due to OLT
Construction.
Door to the fire area via
interior stairs, forcible entry,
locate fire, search and
removal of victims
Door directly above fire
area via interior stairs, top
floor go to adjacent apt.
adjacent apt to the one
above may be more severely
exposed due to OLT
Construction.
Assist chauffer, exterior of
fire area for horizontal
ventilation after given
permission. VEIS fire apt
Assist chauffer, exterior of
fire area for horizontal
ventilation after given
permission. VEIS fire apt
Adjoining Building, Aerial
Ladder, Rear fire Escape.
Vent and probe Bulkhead,
find way off roof, visually
look for fire conditions.
Front of building to raise
and use aerial or portable
2nd due Chauffer
Whatever they want,
flashlight. ETC
ladders for either rescue or
roof access.
Front of fire building, if not
needed team up with 2nd due
OV. Assist laddering with
1st to arrive ladder or vent
and search if with 2nd due
OV.
Brownstone and RowFrame Positions
Roof (1st due )
Roof (2nd due )
LSR, Halligan and Halligan
Hook
Halligan hook, Top Floor
Fire: Saw and Halligan hook
OV ( 1st due)
6ft hook and halligan
OV ( 2nd due)
6ft hook and halligan
Aerial, Aerial, Adjoining but
not immediate for row frame.
Roof of fire building, contact
1st due to determine method of
access. Assist and confirm all
duties.
Assist LCC with laddering
provide lateral ventilation for
exterior of fire area after
permission. VEIS fire Apt. if
Basket used wait for
completion of roof size up
reposition basket to fire floor
for vent.
Same as first due except
position is floor above and do
not take saw to roof.
Private Dwelling Positions
Roof ( 1st due )
Halligan hook, halligan and
LSR
Roof (2nd due )
OV (1st due )
Halligan Hook and Saw
VEIS area most likely
occupied when teamed up
OV (2nd due)
Survey sides and rear.
Roof of fire builing, vertical
ventilation survey sides and
rea
Assist 1st due roof
Assist the chauffer with any
laddering needed vent the fire
area when ordered
Assist the chauffer with any
laddering needed VEIS when
teamed up
TaxPayer Positions
Roof (1st due )
Roof ( 2st due )
OV ( 1st due)
6ft hook and halligan – above
cellar take saw and hook
Saw and either an axe or
halligan
Maul and Halligan
Vertical Ventilation
communicate conditions found
Assist and confirm all duties
of first to arrive roof.
Check rear and side provide
OV (2nd due )
Maul and Halligan
ventilation at rear enter and
search when teameup with
another member
Assist the 1st arrive OV if not
needed proceed to the roof or
otherwise directed.
FireProof MD Positions
Officer ( 1st due)
Search rope, CO
monitor and TIC
Can ( 1st due)
6ft hook and water
extinguisher
Irons ( 1st due)
Axe and Halligan or
Maul and Halligan &
Rabbit Tool
Halligan & 6ft hook or
Axe
OV ( 1st due)
Roof ( 1st due)
KO Curtain, Halligan
and Rabbit Tool
Chauffeur ( 1st due)
Halligan and an axe
Officer (2nd Due )
Search rope, CO
monitor and TIC
Can (2nd Due )
6ft hook and water
extinguisher
Irons (2nd Due )
Axe and Halligan or
Maul and Halligan &
Rabbit Tool
OV (2nd Due )
Halligan and a 6ft hook
or Axe
Fire Apt, Search and removal of victims. If
wind fire remain in the stairway and follow
wind impacted fire procedures.
Fire Apt, Search and removal of victims. If
wind fire remain in the stairway and follow
wind impacted fire procedures.
Fire Apt, Search and removal of victims. If
wind fire remain in the stairway and follow
wind impacted fire procedures.
Conduct an outside survey with chauffeur
including lettering in your report. If no outside
operations take control of an elevator. If no
elevator proceed to fire floor to assist inside
team.
Apt Directly above fire via attack stairway.
Make sure stairway door is closed on the floor
above. Gain entry into apt above. Check for
victims showing at windows on fire floor.
Notify officer of apt layout, conditions and
wind.
Outside survey, then to roof for search and
ventilation with 2nd due chauffeur via
evacuation stairway.
Hallway on the fire Floor, confirm the attack
and evacuation stairways, search hallways for
five floors above the fire assist 1st due with
WCD if needed.
Hallway on the fire Floor, confirm the attack
and evacuation stairways, search hallways for
five floors above the fire assist 1st due with
WCD if needed.
Hallway on the fire Floor, confirm the attack
and evacuation stairways, search hallways for
five floors above the fire assist 1st due with
WCD if needed.
Contact 1st OV/Chauffer via HT, if outside
operations in progress team up with 2nd
chauffer if no take control of a different
elevator if non go to fire floor.
Roof (2nd Due )
Forcible Entry Tools,
LSR, Life Belt
Chauffeur (2nd Due )
Apt Directly above fire via attack stairway.
Make sure stairway door is closed on the floor
above. Gain entry into apt above. Check for
victims showing at windows on fire floor.
Notify officer of apt layout, conditions and
wind.
Assist and confirm all duties of the 1st chauffer
if outside operations are in progress team up
with 2nd OV.
Wind Impacted Fires in Fireproof Multiple Dwellings
Directly attack these fires with 1 or 2 2.5” hoselines.
Five conditions must be present for a wind impacted fire to occur 1) wind 2) fire in an apt 3)
failed or open window in the fire room 4) fire apt leading to the public hall left open or not fully
closed 5) an area of low pressure such as an opened stairwell door. Air movement is known as
flow path.
Prior to advancing to the reported fire floor – all member must access the fire floor from the
same stairway until the attach stairway has be determined. Flow of any fire will be towards the
stairwell; control of the door is critical.
High Rise nozzles greatly improve conditions in a wind driven fire.
Flanking Strategy – application of water from inside the fire building to control the main body of
the fire via a non frontal attack. Enter an adjoining apt breach a wall and apply the stream to
the fire apt.
Adjoining apt door must remain closed once operation has started.
KO Curtain would normally be the first tactic used due to it’s availability and time it takes to
deploy.
Door to fire Area must remain closed until a charged hoseline arrives unless know life hazard
exists.
High Rise Office Fires
Command Post – Typically in the lobby – enables the chief in charge of the fire control over
evacuation, building systems and units.
Fire operations – defined as the fire floor and one floor above
Staging area – logistical support o and locate the floors below the operations posts.
Search and evacuation post – enables a chief control of all operations above fire operations
located if possible on a floor which is not service by the same bank elevators as the fire floor and
at least 5 floors above fire operations.
1st Ladder Company to Arrive – Fire Floor to Entry, locate fire search for victims, obtain floor
plan, keys evacuation so far.
Chauffer and OV – conduct outside operations if fire in on lower floor. Chauffer may also have
to remain in the lobby to establish the command post until relieved by the 1st arriving battalion
chief. One member to operate the fireman service elevator.
2nd ladder to arrive – augment the first ladder company on the fire floor.
3rd ladder company to arrive – floor above the fire to search for victims. Determine best
stairway to be used by occupants for evacuations to lobby command post.
4th ladder to arrive – the roof to determine vertical ventilation points, do not undertake roof
ventilation unless ordered to by chief.
High Rise Nozzle
High rise nozzle to be used in wind driven attacks when interior handlines attacks are not
possible (determined by the IC), when fire apartment is not accessible with outside streams
( Tower Ladder, ladder pipes, multiverse, or handlines from windows. )
Specs
1.5inch diameter - 8ft pipe with 68 degree bend and 2ft additional after bend.
Supplied with a 2.5” hoseline
Shut-off is permentantly attached
Tip is 1 1/8 MST – should be checked weekly and during MUD and BEFORE use
Will flow 200 – 225GPM at 50psi at the nozzle with standard 2.5” hose and pressure (3L = 70psi:
4L = 80psi)
A shutoff should be placed one length back from the nozzle
Every 10-77 that is placed should have at least 1 high rise equipped engine assigned
4th due engine is responsible to bring the HRN, Officer will have the engine company bring HRN,
each FF grabs a length of 2.5” hose, the standpipe kit and the controlling nozzle and reports to
the IC at the lobby command post.
Putting the HRN into place will require 2 engine companies and forcible entry tools and a rabbit
tool.
A spotter on the outside equipped with binoculars, HT and will deliver how effective the HRN is
to the IC and members operating.
Companies will need to gain access to the fire apt below the fire apt. window bars and child
gates should be removed, however it is not necessary to remove the window. Supply line to be
attached before the nozzle is slip out the window. The supervising officer will maintain HT
communication with the spotter to make sure the nozzle is being operated effectively.
Lightweight Standpipe Hose
The green 2” hose is only to be used for residential high rise fires and must be the lead length.
With a 1” tip (green), may be used with the high rise nozzle. 200 – 210 Gpm at the nozzle
Lightweight 2.5” hose is white with a double red stripe - uses a 1 1/8” tip– used with subway
standpipe and commercial high rise operations. FDNY threads – you can use normal 2.5” hose to
fill in if you do not have enough 2.5” light weight hose.

When using the lightweight 2.5” hose, use conventional standpipe pressures (70 psi -3
lengths & 80 psi – 4 lengths)
When using the 2” lead lengths utilize the following pressures.


80 psi – for 3 lengths
90 psi – for 4 lengths
Engine pressure for 110 psi + 5 psi for every floor above ground level.
Basic Construction Tactics
Old Law tenements
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Built before 4/12/1901
Class 3 non-fireproof – brick walls wood floors
3 -7 stories
Area = width ( 20 – 25ft) x Depth (50 – 85ft)
Apts per floor = 2 to 4
Cellar entrance = combustible stairway to cellar is located inside the building beneath
interior stairs.
Secondary means of Egress – fire escape or party wall balcony
Some have 4 apts on a floor – fire escapes on both front and rear
New Law Tenements
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Class 3 – non fireproof wood, masonry, steel
1901 – 1916 – Steel I beams used to carry floor joists
1916 – 1929 – unprotected steel beams used to support wood floor joists; supported by
vertical steel columns.
•
•
Floor areas broken up to into units 2500 SQFT of less some have fireproof partitions.
After 1929 – cocklofts were downsized
H Type Multiple Dwelling
•
Non fireproof subdivided above the first floor
Year
Area
1901 – 1916
35 – 50 wide x 85 deep
1916 to 1929
150 x 200
Apts
5–6
Vary – long interior
hallways “L” or “T” shape
After 1929
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Extraordinary dimensions
though every 3000 sq ft was
required to be enclosed by
firewalls.
Cellars – exterior entrance only – first floor cellar ceiling is fireproof
Secondary means of egress – fire escapes 1 or 2 or all sides
Stairways – near the front entrance other will be some distance away.
Fire Proof Multiple Dwellings
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Concrete floors cinder blocks or gypsum block walls
Fires in buildings can be very hot – difficult to extinguish
Two – 2.5” lines may be required to move down a public hallway to fire apt is open and
wind and building air flow are opposing hose line advance all extinguishment efforts
shall proceed initially from one attack stairway.
4 – 40 or higher stories
Irregular shape clusters of buildings
Secondary means of egress – two fireproof stairways Smaller building will have 1
First floor may contain – large stores – supermarkets clinics, daycares, offices
Life hazard – no severe of fire apt when door to apt is closed. Rapid fire development
potential
Ventilation – prominent variables that affect smoke movement are
• Height of building
• Stack effect temp differential from outside to inside
• Construction and configuration
• Surrounding structures
• Mechanical ventilation
• WIND
• When the fire apt door has been left open and the windows fail the public
hall becomes part of the fire areas
Ventilation procedure
•
•
Ladder Officer in fire apt is the only one to initiate the request for additional ventilation
Stairways other than the evacuation stair may be used for venting the fire floor, only 2
stairways attack stairway will be the primary means for vertical ventilation.
Elevators
•
•
Stairs to be used when fire is below the 7th floor
Maintain 1 elevator on standby in the lobby and 1-2 floors below the fire to transport
injured.
Special considerations
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Cellar areas used as living quarters with no secondary means of egress
Lack of secondary means of egress from upper floor – Control and management of the
interior stairs is critical to a successful operation.
Stairs to attic found behind small door looks like a closet
Fires involving electrical service may energize aluminum siding
Central air systems may spread smoke / gas
Look under windows closely
Three Boards of TaxPayers
Older Type – built
until 1920’s
1 -2 stores
Wood masonry or
just wood frame.
Decorative metal
cornices or small
signs sometimes
provide access to
cockloft
Built from 1920 to
1960
Larger in area – 1
tenant occupied
supermarkets bowling
alley
Firewalls may be
present: 2nd floor
with separate
occupants large
meeting halls
Removing cornice or
sign will NOT provide
access into cockloft
area
Built since 1960’s
Combustible
construction removed
Steel bar joists to
support the floor and
roof instead of wood
Floor and roof may be
concrete poured on
top of metal decking.
Marquees
•
Hollow boxes which fill up with water – 12x24x4 deep can hold 35 tons of water
Access to cellar areas
•
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Outside cellars are usually found in read of taxpayers
Windows are normally below grade
Cocklofts
•
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Usually in common area extending over all the sores in the structure
Can vary in height from 4 inches to more than 6 feet
Columns
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Made from wood,cast iron, lally columns, masonary
Cast iron columns are unpredictable and fail on the average of 30 minutes
Collapse
•
•
Backdraft blowing out walls or floors
Weakened for burned structural support
•
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Heating unprotected steel
Large amounts of water on floor or ceiling
Impact load
Water ice or snow on the roof
Vibrations in or near structure
Warning signs of collapse
• Cracks, movement, rumbling noises, presence of heavy equipment, spongy floor
• Sagging or bilging walls, heavy body of fire burning more than 20 min
New type of constructions
• Better than traditional or older type from a fire protection standpoint
Exit Facilities
• Older and new taxpayer exit facilities are poor
Fire Extension
Horizontal spread
• Common cockloft
• Flimsy partitions
• Between the beams in ceiling
• Via hanging ceiling
• Via AC/ Heating ducts
• Butted joists
• Common ceiling
• I Beams
• Party Walls
Vertical Spread
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Via Ducts
Pipe Recesses
Through ceilings
Via concealed spaces between furred plaster and brick walls
Via voids
Via open stair or trap door
Convection
Shafts light ventilation shafts from interior offices or bathrooms
Stock conveyer belts or chutes
High rise Office
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75 feet or more
Area = 2k to over 300k sqft
Class 1 – non combustable
Class E when used for transcating business – office space
Heavy Weight –
built before 1945
Medium Weight
20 – 23 pounds per
cubic feet;
structural steel
encased in
concrete
10-20 pounds per
Floor were constructed
of reinformed concrete
Plenum type ceiling are
generally not found
Fire towers in all of
Normally steam
heated no
centrally aired
Exterior windows
were open-able
between 1945 1968
Light Weight
cubic floor f
these building
8 – 10 pounds per
cubic foot
Lack of
compartmentalization
structural steel usually
protected by
fireproofing
Extensive plenum
ceiling: have HVAC
PORTABLE LADDERS
•
Sizes and types of Portable Ladders in use
Extension Ladders
Closed Length
Weight
Capacity
35’
20’
135lbs
600lbs
24’
14’
80lbs
500lbs
16’
10’
70lbs
500lbs
Straight Ladders
Weight
Capacity
20’
55lbs
500lbs
20’ with hook
50lbs
500lbs
12’ with hook
35lbs
500lbs
Special Ladders
Closed length
Weight
Capacity
14' 'A' Frame
7'
35lbs
300lbs
10' Folding
11'
16lbs
300lbs
•
LEG LOCK: LEG IS PLACED OPPOSITE OF THE WORKING SIDE
AND TWO RUNGS ABOVE THE RUNG IN WHICH THE MEMBER IS
STANDING ON. BUTTMAN REPOSITIONS HIS FOOTING.
•
Portable Ladder capacities:
•
Collapsible ladders: up to 300lbs load
•
Roof, straight, and extension ladders: (26' or less) up to 500lbs load.
•
Extension ladders: (27' – 35') up to 600lbs load
•
65-75 DEGREE ANGLE OR ¼ WORKING LENGTH.
•
Do not climb higher than the 3rd rung from top in either straight or extension
ladders.
•
Rungs are 14” apart (same as aerials)
•
DO NOT REPOSITION LADDER THAT HAS BEEN USED BY A MEMBER
TO GAIN ACCESS TO A FLOOR. THAT MEMBER MAY NEED LADDER
TO RETREAT. Only remove if needed for a rescue.
•
PORTABLE LADDER PLACEMENT:
•
AT A WINDOW
TIP SHALL BE LEVEL WITH THE
WINDOW SILL
AT A ROOF
AT LEAST 2' ABOVE THE ROOF OR
PARAPET
ALONGSIDE FIRE
ESCAPE ON A BLDG
WALL
1' – 2' ABOVE THE FIRE ESCAPE
RAILING
PLACE AGAINST A FIRE
ESCAPE
SLIGHTLY ABOVE THE FIRE ESCAPE
RAILING
FOR VENTING A
WINDOW
TIP ALONGSIDE TOP OF WINDOW
Pros and Cons of aluminum ladders:
Pro
Con
Lighter and stronger than wood
Readily conduct electricity and heat
Long life expectancy
If subjected to excessive heat exposure,
it may have lost its heat treatment AND
will not show any changes on the
surface. A discoloration may indicate a
loss of structural strength.
Will dent but not break
•
•
Marking of portable ladders:
•
Straight ladders: ladder length shall be marked on each end of rails
•
Extension ladders: ladder length shall be marked at the butt end only of
each rail of the bed ladder. Unit designations shall be marked within 18
inches of each butt end.
Other uses for portable ladders:
• Used to bridge a fence
• Used as a barrier to protect civilians or members from injury
• Used in a tower ladder basket. Used in extreme emergency situations to
gain extra height in a life saving operation.
• Forcible entry.
• Ventilating Lexan windows.
• Remove exterior screen
• Place butt of ladder on window in corner adjacent to window
frame
• 3 or 4 members apply gradual pressure until forced inward.
• If section of window snaps off, continue forcing around window
perimeter until sufficient opening has been made.
• Used a brace for partial collapse of floor area.
• To shore excavations
• For the rescue of victims who have fallen through ice in body of water.
Ladder is lad flat on the ice (redistributes weight of rescuers over larger
area)
• Member performing rescue should be secured with life safety rope.
• Elevator emergencies
PLACING PORTABLE LADDERS AT FIRES
•
Tenements and M.D.
• Tenements without a front fire escape:
When the fire is in the cellar, 1st floor, or 2nd floor; raise the portable
ladder adjacent to and above the fire area even if the aerial ladder will be
used on the upper floors.
•
Tenements and M.D. with front fire escape:
• First portable ladder on first balcony opposite of drop ladder.
Second ladder on second balcony, same side as drop ladder.
•
Attempt to keep ladder away from panicked victim’s reach while raising
and positioning ladder.
•
Tenements and M.D. with fire escapes on the rear of the building:
• Overcrowding relieved by removing victims via gooseneck ladder
on roof.
•
Brownstones (front of building)
• Place ladder on adjoining window above entrance stoop.
•
Brownstones (rear of building)
• Butt of ladder facing rear of building, using adjoining building (faster). Go
through parlor floor and our to rear window.
• Floor and ladder working length are:
• 4th floor – 35’ extension ladder
• 3rd floor – 25’ or 35’ extension ladder
• 2nd floor – 16’ or 25’ extension ladder
•
Rowframes
• Butt facing the rear through the first floor (this floor has a front and rear
exit)
VENTILATING VIA PORTABLE LADDER
•
Member mounted on ladder
• Ladder is placed upwind from the window being ventilated.
• Member’s eye shield in down position
• Preferable to use 6’ Wooden Hook. Extend arms upward and slant the tool
downward to strike the glass.
•
Using portable ladder to smash glass.
• Full PPC donned.
• Ladder should be positioned so that it will break desired window glass
area when dropped against the window.
• When ladder strikes the glass, there should be no contact between the
member and the ladder (window glass may slide down rails of ladder).
Care should be taken to insure that no other personnel are in the ‘danger
area’
• As soon as the glass sections have fallen or are clear of the ladder, the
member must stabilize the ladder to prevent its falling to the ground.
SAFETY
•
Extension ladders should not be taken apart and used as single section ladders.
•
Never use upside down.
•
Never place ladder against windowpanes window sashes, or loose boxes, barrels,
or other surfaces that may break or collapse.
•
DO NOT climb higher than the third rung from the top on either straight or
extension ladders.
•
Resist temptation to overreach. Get down and reposition ladder instead.
•
Electrical current can arc and reach aluminum ladder. Watch for overhead
obstructions.
•
Do not lower ladder by moving butt away from building. Doing so will:
• Reduce load capacity
• Possibility that locking assembly will fail.
Always lower the fly ladder below the desired level and re-raise it in order
to insure a safe 65-75 degree climbing angle.
•
When placing metal portable ladder against building with aluminum exterior,
member shall release ladder prior to contact with the building. (Faulty electrical
service connections due to fire)
•
When operating at electrical generating stations or substations, NEVER take
metal ladders or tools inside.
MAINTENANCE OF PORTABLE ALUMINUM LADDERS
•
At beginning of each tour, they shall be inventoried, slid out, and make sure
halyards are properly fastened.
•
Visual inspection of portable ladders shall be made weekly and after each use.
•
Apply candle wax or paraffin every 3 months to all contacting surfaces.
•
1 or 2 drops of oil once a year for pulleys.
The rungs are always 14” apart
• The longest ladder used is the 35” extension. It and the 20’ straight ladder require 20’
clearance to remove from back of rig. Leave at least 20’ behind rig to allow these
ladders to come off.
•
Wood Ladders are carried by marine units. They are painted black with white hooks.
The bottom 18” is also painted white. The hooks do not pivot like they do on an
aluminum ladder.
• Two Construction Types: Solid beam (Solid side rails) and Truss (Top and bottom rails
connected to rung assemblies. Allows for greater load capacity without massive side
beams)
Advantages of Aluminum Ladders
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•
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•
•
Lighter in weight and stronger than wood ladders
Long life expectancy – will not weaken with age
Will not fail suddenly – will bend, but not break
No protective finish is required
Extension ladders can be adjusted to exact height required for accurate positioning and
safety
Disadvantages of Aluminum Ladders
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Conducts Electricity
Conducts heat rapidly
May weaken when exposed to heat
May show NO signs of excessive heat exposure, or
Discoloration may indicate a loss of structural strength
If either occurs-notify Tech Services – OOS
Ladder Climbing Angle
Angle should be 65-75 degree for maximum strength. Ladders angled steeper than 75 degrees
increases chance of falling. Angle less than 65 degrees require reduction in maximum loading.
¼ the working length = 65-75 degrees
Working Length: Distance from butt end of the ladder to point where ladder is supported
Ladder Placement
Roofs – At least 2 feet above roof or parapet wall.
Aerial Ladder – 5 feet above roof or parapet.
Window – Tip shall be level with the window sill.
Along side fire escape railing – Tip shall be 1 to 3 feet above the fire escape railing.
Against the fire escape – Tip shall be slightly above the fire escape railing.
Marking Portable Ladders
Straight – 12 inches from each end on both sides of the ladder
Extension Ladders – 12 inches from end of both sides, butt end only.
Straight & Extension Ladders Unit # – 18 inches from end of both sides, butt end only
Ladder length marking shall be visible when ladders are stored on the apparatus
Portable Ladder Uses
Rescue, Access and/or egress, Ventilation Hose Line advancement, Forcible entry, Bridging,
Barriers, Salvage, and Transport of injured.
Climbing
Climb on balls of feet, Carry tool on outside of beam. When icy, climb on arch of feet, feet close
to beams. Do Not climb higher then the 3rd rung from the top.
Butt Ladder
With left foot in center of bottom rung, right foot behind. If left unattended, ladder should be
secured by 1st member to climb
Halyard
Rope used to extend ladders
•
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To get to rear of brownstone: take ladder, butt end first, through parlor floor of an
adjoining building
To get to the rear of a row frame, take ladder through ground floor of fire building
Under no circumstances are aluminum ladders to be brought into a electrical generating
plant
Never place aluminum ladders against metal superstructure
Butt man has his back to the building when raising and lowering ladder
Raising man controls ladder when the butt man raises the fly with the halyard
Stops: Limiting device on extension ladders to prevent fly from extending past bed
section
Ladder Locks: Locking mechanism that secures an extension ladder in the desired
extended position by engaging the beams of the fly ladder to the rungs of the bed
ladder
Portable Ladders at Multiple Dwellings
Fire in cellar, 1st or 2nd floor: Raise portable ladders adjacent to and above fire area
Ladders at fire escapes
If overcrowed raise ladder to the 1st balcony opposite drop ladder. If more relief is
required, raise another ladder to 2nd balcony, opposite 1st ladder
Operation From Ladder
•
•
•
• Place upwind from fire. Always butt the ladder if possible
Safety
• Always face ladder when climbing/descending
• Do not climb higher than 3rd rung from top
• Tie off halyard when extension raised
• Extension ladders are not to be taken apart to make two straight ladders
• Extension ladders are not to be used upside down
• Don’t place ladders against breakable surfaces
Maintenance
• Wash with warm soapy water
• Nicks/burrs can be removed with a fine file
• Oil pulleys once a year (1 or 2 drops)
• Remove/reapply grease on extension ladders
• Apply paraffin every 3 months on extension ladders
Inspection
• Visually inspect after every use
• Visual inspect weekly
• Thorough monthly inspection
Visual Inspection
• Loose, bent or cracked rungs
• Beams in alignment not twisted
• Gusset plates tight and secure
• Halyard not cut or frayed
• Pulley operates freely / check ladder locks
• Discoloration – sign of excessive heat exposure
Carrying the Ladders
• Fly section is always away from you
• Suitcase carry – Short distances
• Shoulder carry – Long distances
Other Information
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Ambulatory victims should descend ladder on their own
When lowering a victim, stand one rung below the rung they are on. Descend in unison
If victim panics, press them against ladder
Victims should be looking up or straight ahead: not beams
Unconscious victims: carry down with legs over shoulders. Hold beams of ladder
Always carry small children down ladders. Maintain control with one hand on ladder at
all times
Small adult/large child can be carried down ladder
Building Construction
Bearing Wall: Wall that carries any load other than its own weight. Failure will cause a full or
partial collapse
Non-Bearing Wall: Wall that carries no load other then its own weight. Failure will not cause
collapse
Fire Wall: Wall erected to resist passage of fire from one portion of building to another or from
one structure to another structure
Bulkhead: Enclosed structure above roof level
Parapet Wall: Portion of wall that extends above the roof
Veneer Wall: Single thickness of brick, masonry for decorative purposes
Beam: horizontal member that carries load perpendicular to its length
Girder: Large beams
Fire Cut Beam: Beveled cut at end of beam to allow beam to fall without damaging wall: No
collapse danger
Column: Vertical member used to transfer floor and roof loads to the foundation
Joist: Closely spaced beams support floor or ceiling
Cockloft: Space between ceiling of top floor and roof. Vary in size from 4” to 6’
Bays: Area between studs
Old Law Tenement (OLT):
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Built up to April 12, 1901
Converted to railroad flats
Rear and/or front fire escapes
Cellar access through interior stair: Not always true
Usually 20 to 25 feet wide
4-7 stories tall
50’ to 85’ deep
Class 3 non-fireproof construction
2-4 apartments per floor
Dumbwaiter shafts
Possible SRO single room occupancy
Collapse usually not a problem due to short width. Collapse usually occurs on building
with prior fire damage
New Law Tenement (NLT):
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Un-pierced cellar of masonry to prevent spread of fire
Uses steel for construction: allows for larger buildings
Cellar only accessible from outside
Generally 6 to 7 stories
35’ – 50’ width
85’ depth
5-6 apartments per floor
Large cockloft area
Buildings after 1916
Steel beams and steel columns
Dumbwaiter shafts
Elevators
Railroad Flats:
• Apartment that spans the length of building
• Can enter in from and travel to rear of building in same apartment
Returns:
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Four walls that surround the scuttle/skylight. Open up to check for fire.
Do not open returns remote to fire as it can extend fire
Brownstones:
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12” of masonry between buildings
Front stairs lead to Parlor level (2nd floor)
1st floor is the basement
Skylight on stairs
Also have cellars
Do not generally have fire escapes
Average 25’ wide
Average 60’ deep
Majority are flat roof with no rear parapet
Access to roof via interior scuttle
No bulkheads
Fire are generally contained to one building due to masonry between buildings
H-Type Buildings:
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Large buildings, steel skeleton
Inverted roof
Built 1920’s through 1930’s
Class “A” non-fireproof building
Stairs in H Type
• Transverse: Covers both wings. Hallway across throat
• Wing: Only services one wing. No access across throat
• Isolated: Service individual apartments
Row Frames Characteristics:
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Types: 3 windows (Brownstone type) or 4 windows (OLT type)
Biggest problem is the common cockloft
Built in rows of as many as 20 or more buildings
2-5 stories in height
40’ to 60’ deep
Constructed in 1800’s and early 1900’s
No fire stops
Balloon or brace framing
Possible dumbwaiter
Cellars may be common among buildings
Common cornices may be present: adds to fire travel
Access to roof via scuttle
Horizontal Extension in Row Frame:
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Common cockloft (5’ to 6’)
Common cornice
Thin and flimsy walls between buildings
Common basement
Collapse Danger in Row Frame:
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Brick and veneer facing
Whole rear wall can pull down and collapse
Side wall collapse
Fire escape could fall off
Heavy fire in cockloft can lead to roof collapse
Steel I-Beams:
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100’ Length will expand 9 ½” when heated to 1000 degrees
Will return to original size when cooled
Can sag when heated as well
High Rise Office
Height – 75 ft or more
Construction – Class 1 non combustable
Three types of construction
Heavy weight – built before 1945
20-23 pounds per cubic foot
Steel encased in concrete
Floor constructed of concrete
Exterior windows are openable
Exterior walls are masonry
No Central HVAC
Medium Weight construction 1945 – 1968
10-20 pounds per cubic foot
Fire towers required in all of the building
Construction is a mix
Lightweight construction built after 1968
8 – 10 pounds per cubic foot
Lack of compartmentation
Steel protected by fireproofing material sprayed on
Curtain exterior walls made of glass and metal
Central HVAC
Floors use lightweight concrete – Q decking
Exterior windows unable to open
Class E Communication Systems
System required for all class E building to alert and direct occupant in the event of a fire, also to
transmit an alarm to the FDNY.
Fire Command station – location in lobby near elevators public address servicing all floors.
Floor warden station on each floor with 2 way communication
Manual fire alarm sending stations on each floor.
Core Construction – elevators stairways and building support systems are grouped together in
one are of the building, typically in the center or one of the sides. Second hose line may be used
to prevent fire from wrappoing around the core which would endanger the operation of the first
line.
Curtain Wall – A non load bearing wall built between two piers or columns.
Q – Decking – corrugated steel is used to support a concrete floor.
Fire safety director – certificate of fitness from FDNY, knowledge of the Class E system and
evacuation routes, must be present when more than 100 people are present in a building at one
time. Is a civilian.
Inverted Roof: Lightweight structure over roof to aid in drainage. Spongy when stepped on
Scuttle Covers: At top of stairs leading to roof. Can be sealed shut
Party Wall Balcony Fire Escape: Spans two buildings. No way up or down. Escape only to other
building. Cannot be used to stretch hoseline
Truss:
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Bowstring truss
Parallel cord truss
Open web steel truss
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Heavy timber – about 20 fee apart
Lightweight wood truss
If serious fire involves roof, firefighters should not cut the roof
Steel trusses can fail in 5 to 10 minutes in fire
Lightwood truss could fail as fast as 1:20
Held together with gusset plates
Gusset plates penetrate wood no more than 3/8”
Gypsum Roof:
•
If after inserting hook into roof you see white powder, gypsum roof. Inform officer and
get off roof
Types of Buildings:
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Class1: Fireproof – Concrete and steel
Class 2: Fire protected – Wood lathe and plaster interior, masonry exterior
Class 3: Non-fireproof –
Class 4: Wood
Class 5: Metal or fire-resistive wood
Class 6: Heavy timber
•
Dumbwaiter shafts
Voids:
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Created by framework around steel I-beams
Pipe recesses throughout structure
Larger recesses in kitchens and bathrooms due to waste pipe
Dumb waiter shafts used for new pipes and wiring
Closets in MD constructed back to back and on top of each other
Poor workmanship in closets allow for vertically and horizontal travel
Unusual shaped buildings: voids created by squaring off rooms and hallways
Balloon Framing: Void between floors allow for fire travel. Found in Queen Anne’s
Platform Construction: Floor on top of floor eliminates voids. Natural firestop
Brace Framing: Limits vertical extension by use of a girt
Truss Construction: If one truss fails, it will likely cause failure of others
Row Frame: Private Dwellings: wood construction with common cockloft created from inverted
roof. Rapid and extensive fire travel
Peak Roofs: Do not go to roof. Venting not a primary consideration
Search Theory
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Most firefighter killed in flashover were actually lost and disoriented in smoke prior to
flashover
70% of fire deaths occur in private dwelling fires. Most by smoke inhalation
Primary Search (PRST)
•
Immediate search for life, Rapid but thorough and systematic, Dictated by room
conditions
• Primary, Rapid, Systematic, Thorough
Fire Apartment
•
Conducted from floor level (low), Always check behind doors, Search to find the fire,
then confine it
• Communicate fire location to engine, then search from fire
Floor Above and Adjoining Apartment
Apartment directly above fire is given priority, search by 2nd due truck, primary search
begin immediately upon entry
Search Techniques
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Search to a secondary means of egress. Vent while searching unless it will have an
adverse affect in the area
Secondary Search
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A thorough and painstakingly complete search to insure that no possible victims are
overlooked
May take days or even months for disasters
Immediate fire area and floor above require both a primary and secondary search
Truck that performs primary search cannot perform secondary search on same area
Search thoroughly, down to floorboards
Time not as important as accuracy
Listen to civilians pleas
Portable Extinguishers
Class A Fire – Wood Cloth Paper and many Plastics – cool with water or dry chemical – Green
Triangle
Class B Fire – flammable liquids, gases, greases – smothering most effective – Red Square
Class C Fire – live electrical equipment – non conductive agent must be used –Blue Circle
Class D Fire – involve burning metals, magnesium – dry powder carried by special units – Yellow
Star
Types of Extinguishers
Pump tank Extinguisher – Class A fires, 5 Gallons, recharge after each use, range 30 – 40ft,
pressure source – pump.
Pressurized water extinguisher – Class A Fire, 2.5 gallons, range 30-40ft Recharge after each use,
Examine Each Tour, pressure source compressed air 100psi.
Pressurized AFFF Foam – Class A & B Fires, 2.5 gallons, range 30-40ft, Recharge after each use,
Examine each tour. If not used within 1 year should be removed and used for drilling.

10 oz of 3% Foam
CO2 – Class B, C &A (small surface only), Examine Each tour, Range 4ft, Recharge when
expended loss of 10lbs of weight check every 6 months.
Dry Chemical – Class B, C &A (small surface only), range 4-12 ft, recharge after use or leakage of
air below operable, examine each tour.
Purple K – Class B (particular effective at combating methanol fire), range 19-20ft, examine each
tour, recharge send to RT-2
Forcible Entry
Inward Opening Doors
• Bevel side of the halligan next to door
• Go past interior door jam
• Apply driving force toward the door
Outward Opening Doors
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•
•
•
Concave side of the fork halligan toward the door
Drive between the jamb and door
Force ADZ end away from the door
Pry downward and out with fork end of he tool
Forcing Locks
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Attack locks 6” above or below
For multiple locks, go for the middle between them
Bevel end of fork to the door: Halligan wraps around door jamb
Hand position of Halligan: Palm down at fork end, palm up at adz end
Hydra Ram: Cannot be used on wooden doors, only with metal jambs
• Steel doors with chain: Use bolt cutters if available. If not, go for hinges, top first
• Outward opening door: Force with adz end
Multi-Lock Door
•
Has 4 pins on each side of door for lock. Cut inverted triangle in bottom right quadrant,
reach in to trip lock
Fox Lock
• Plate with 4 bolts around keyway
• Use Halligan with axe
• Using adz end, chisel three bolts, let faceplate hang by bottom bolts
• Remove lock with k-tool
• Turn lock to side with the two lower bolts
Roll Down Security Gates
• Electric: Motors drives gates. Pull access panel and short wires to operate
• Mechanical: Chain used to operate gate. Cut padlock to operate chain
• Manual: Gates raised and lowered by hand. Cut padlock to access
American Series Locks (Hockey Pucks)
•
•
Cut with saw (aluminum oxide blade) 2/3 from the key way
If there are no side metal pieces protecting the Lock then you can open using a pipe
wrench
Curtain Cut (Vertical Cut) on Roll Down Gates
•
Two long cuts with one short cut in center. Pull out slats from middle and curtain will
drop
Triangle Cut
•
Cut triangle in gate. When starting second cut, leave 2 slats at top so that top of triangle
do not fall and interfere with cutting. When second cut finished, cut the 2 remaining
slats and the triangle will fall
Four Steps for Forcing Doors
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Check: Try before pry
Sound: Hit with Halligan to hear how many locks are locked
Gap it: Ram with adz end of Halligan to make a spot for the fork end of Halligan
Set: Place the fork end of the Halligan with the bevel side to the door
Hydrant and Hookups
Hydrants and Hookups
Yellow
35FT soft connection
5inch hose
4.5inch butts
Black
10ft soft suction
4.5inch hose
4.5 inch butts
Black
10ft small suction
4.5inch hose
4.5inch butts
White
50ft length
3.5inch hose
3inch butts
Discs
White – OOS Yellow – Frozen BLUE –Siamese
Types of Hydrants
Smith low pressure
Black/silver
4.5 x 2.5
Indicates main size
– underline = dead
end main
Dresser low pressure
Black/silver
4.5 x 2.5
10-15% more
water
Chapman and eddy
Yellow
2.5 x 2.5
Opens
counterclockwise
phased out
Parkway and Expressway
Yellow
4.5 x 2.5
Curb valve shutoff
Air Cock
Red
4.5 x 2.5
30” main or larger
Satellite Water System
Red
4.5 x 4.5
Avoid
High Pressure
Black/silver
Multiple
OOS
SEARCH:
•
Flow path: the movement of heat and smoke from the higher air pressure within the fire
area to all other lower air pressure areas both inside and outside of a fire.
•
Heat Release Rate: the rate at which energy (heat) is released by the burning of a fuel
and oxygen mixture. HRR is a measure of the size of the fire compared to the thermal
hazard or effects of the fire.
•
Ventilate, Enter (isolate), Search:
• Ventilate: opening or removing a window creating a potential flowpath for fire.
• Enter: via the open window which is now a flowpath for smoke, heat, and fire;
isolate the room entered by closing the door to eliminate the flow path. Before
closing the door, the member should check behind the door for life hazards.
• Search: conduct the search of the room after isolating the from the flow path.
•
Ventilation Limited Fire: a fire in which the HRR or growth of the fire is being slowed
because the fire is consuming the available oxygen and no new oxygen is entering the fire
area.
Note: Hydrocarbon based products burn at twice the rate as ordinary combustibles and
generates 4 to 10 times the smoke production as ordinary combustibles.
•
Fires involving synthetic materials create new challenges. An area can become
untenable in as little as 1 ½ minutes after entry (ventilation)
•
Primary Search:
• Rapid but thorough and systematic
• The responsibility for primary search on the fire floor or in the fire area lies with
the first due truck. On the floors above the fire, in a NFP tenement, the second
due truck has the responsibility for the primary search.
•
Secondary Search:
• Thorough and painstakingly complete search, to ensure that no possible victims
are overlooked.
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This secondary search must include the perimeter of the building and all shafts,
basements, and cellars, etc..
A secondary search must be performed by a different company than the company
which performed the primary search.
Where and when to search?
• All buildings should be searched, within the limits of safety.
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Searching through a door:
• If the engine company has a charged hoseline, the door to the fire area shall be
left open with a door chock.
• If the engine company does not have a charged hoseline, the door to the fire area
shall be closed.
Vertical Ventilation – Opening of existing roof covers, skylights, bulkheads doors or scuttle
covers and or cutting a hole in the roof.
•
•
3)
Allows for more extensive search above fire area.
Relieves public halls and stairs of smoke and heat to allow for aggressive interior attack.
Limits horizontal spread and control easier
Lateral (Horizontal) Ventilation – Opening of windows of fire area to;
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Permit rapid advance of the attack line to the immediate fire area
Reduces danger of heat and or flame passing over or around the attack line
Makes search easier on upper floors as well on the fire floor.
Vent for Extinguishment – Controlled and coordinated ventilation tactic with Engine, Water
must be on the fire.
Vent for Search –Horizontal Ventilation tactic to help allow search for life hazard; inherit risk to
pull fire toward the ventilation point.
Do Not Perform Lateral Ventilation without permission from your officer
Ventilation operational procedures –
•
Windows should not be opened in or around the fire area until partial or complete
extinguishment as begun.
• When venting fire escape never vent a windows that could allow fire to off line of retreat.
Cutting the Roof
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Prior to cutting the roof initital ventilation should start with windows, skylights ETC.
Cut a hole directly over the fire area determine location by looking for soft spots, melting
snow or ice, steam or dry spots, since of touch on vent pipes, HT communications and
knowledge of fire location.
Use Saw with carbide blade
Wind should be at your back
Leave remove pieces next to hole.
On Flat Non Fire-Proof Roofs with the exception of Tax-Payers a 3x6 Coffin cut should
be used.
Tax-Payers use an 8 x 8
Peaked Roofs cutting and opening the roof is usually not considered an initial operation.
Basic Standpipe Operations
Primary Factors that affect standpipe operations are Height and Area.
Standpipe Systems are needed over 75ft
All standpipes are 2.5” use a 1 1/8MST
Standpipe always supplied with 3.5”
Always remove PRD (Pressure Reducer Device) if found on the standpipe.
1st and 2nd due engine will always operate together one first hose line
3rd and 4th due engine operate the second hose line
Inline pressure gauge should ALWAYS be used
2nd hose line needed on fire floor should be stretched from two floors below.
Pump Discharge pressure each hose attached is 100psi + 5psi per floor
Officer and Control FF from the 2nd due engine company should relieve the first due control FF
at the hose outlet and communicate with the first due engine officer.
3 lengths = 70Psi 4 Lengths = 80Psi
Use Pressure Position for standpipe operations
If 1st due to supplying both standpipe and sprinkler systems the second and third due engine
companies must stretch additional to augment both systems.
Sprinklered building is not equipped with standpipe system – first line stretched should be
handline
Sprinkler system control valve should only be shut down from the IC
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Red – Standpipe
Green – Automatic Sprinkler System
Aluminum – Non-automatic sprinkler or perforated pipe
Yellow – Combination Sprinkler / Standpipe
Methods to overcome difficult Siamese connections
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Twist hose 4-5 turns insert and turn to right
Insert double 3” male, attach 3” double female swivel and insert
Insert Siamese 3” x 3” x 3”
Tap Swivels to loosen paint dirt
StandPipe Kit
G – Gauge
C – Chocks
I – Increaser
A – Adapter
N – Nozzle
P – Pipe wrench (18”)
O – operating Wheel
S – Spammer
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Wet Pipe – contain Water in the riser and piping at all times
Dry Pipe – filled with Air or nitrogen is under pressure, installed due to danger of
freezing.
Deluge – opens upon an electrical signal received from smoke or heat. Found in aircraft
hangers.
Combination – sprinkler / standpipe can be either wet or dry
Sprinkler System control Valves may be one of the following,
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Outside Stem & Yoke
Post Indicator Valve
Wall indicator Valve or Wall post Indicator Valve
Butterfly Type Indicating Value
ECC – Connect pumper to hydrant and charge pump
Control FF – proceed to floor below or in hallway adjacent to stairway door containing
standpipe with straps facing up and mal and female hose butts adjacent to each other, the fire
with a folded length of 2.5” hose and the standpipe kit.
Nozzle FF – connects hose butts between lead length and second length
Backup FF – connects hose butt between second and third lengths
Fire Escape Stretch
Used when the interior stairs to a building are in doubt like in a vacant building with damaged
interior stairs.
Methods to hoist hoseline – utility Rope / 6ft hook
Hook hose strap floor below then every other floor after that
Utility Rope Stretch
Nozzle FF – Directly to the Fire floor
Control FF – Ties off nozzle to utility rope and the nozzle FF pulls up the hose to the fire floor.
Engines should carry 75ft of 3/8 inch nylon
Use Utility Rope Stretch when
•
Roof of Low building Ie brownstones, taxpayers, three story frames.
•
Vacant building with interior stairs missing,
•
Building with winding staircase around an elevator shaft
•
Fires requiring three lines
•
Non standpipe project building
•
When CIDS or previous knowledge indicates its use.
Officer will determine this type of stretch would be beneficial.
The line is stretch as followed,
•
Officer proceeds to the floor below the fire with rope selects the window to be used and
communicates this information to the control FF. Rope is deployed from this window.
•
Lengths must be brought into the lobby and the folds arrange near the window selected
by the officer. The nozzle FF attaches the rope to the nozzle places the nozzle outside
the window then proceeds to the floor below the fire.
•
Backup FF will join the nozzle FF when relieved by the control FF. The Control FF must
remain at the window until enough line is hoisted to ensure that the line does not get
hung up. Once the line is charged the control FF will check for kinks and join the nozzle
team.
6ft hook hose stretch method.
Control FF – Placed nozzle on the hook and pass it up to the first balcony (the Door FF). Will
Always remain on the ground in both cases.
Nozzle FF – to the upper balconies and awaits for the nozzle to be passed up.
Once nozzle gets to the Fire floor nozzle man secures the hose with a hose strap and tell the rest
of the FF to secure their hose lines.
Door FF – on the lowest balcony and pass the hook with the hose up to the backup FF. helps
lighten up the hoseline as its being hoisted. Can also secure to fire escape with a hose strap.
Backup FF - positioned right below the nozzle FF. Once positioned below the fir floor he Pulls up
the extra hose to operate within the fire area.
Notes
Hose line to be secured with hose straps beginning with floor below the fire and continues with
every other.
Hose strap is passed around the hose and though loop of the rope, pulled taught and brought
over and under the fire escape railing and then hooked on the strap.
Fire Below the 4th floor and the line is stretched up the well of the fire escape.
Prior to charging the line members must position themselves between the dry line and the
building not the dry line and fire escape.
Car Fires / Alt Fuel fires
Car Fire – 1 engine and 1 truck from EACH DIRECTION , unless fuel spill on a grade.
Flashlights are mandatory at night
Car engine fire – do not operate hand line though front grill, Always approach from the sides.
Magnesium parts on fire use a coarse stream.
Always wear high visibility vests, unless operating near a fire then proper PPE should be worn.
Methods of opening a trunk are – Bam Bam tool, drive out cylinder with a halligan and turn
with screwdriver, cut around the bezel rink, entry via rear seat, extinguish from the tail light.
Always cool hybrid high voltage battery pack(144V – 330VDC). Do not cut HV cables (Orange/
Blue).
Hydrogen Gas near all Batteries.
Never position yourself in-front of the front or rear bumpers due to shock absorbing bumbers
that could become projectiles.
OZ-12 for Air conditioning is flammable.
One engine, one ladder and a battalion chief will be assigned to all express highway incidents in
EACH DIRECTION.
All Members must wear high visibility vests, day or night. Unless donned with bunker gear in
close proximity to fire.
Always disconnect negative terminal first. Always connect last. NEVER Cut orange high voltage
cables on a hybrid.
Always cool down gas tanks and high voltage battery case.
Dry pavement fully loaded tractor trailer to stop from 50Mph = 500ft after driver perceives
danger. Passenger car at 70Mph needs 500ft to stop as well.
Apparatus placement – Usually to rear of the incident unless accident involves with flammable
liquid tanks on a grade. Ladder should always block the engine to provide safety for members
working. If needed close down roadway.
BLEVE = Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion / propane powered passenger car.
Flares
•
Furthest flare should start 2’ from the edge of the roadway moving inward 2’ from the
last until lane is closed.
• Only use Flares when there was is no flammable liquid spills
• Formula Example = (60MPH x 6 ) + 60 = 420 Note: Always PLUS 60
• 4-6 flares to block 1 lane
Opening the hood / trunk
• Stand to side NOT in front
• Charged hoseline should be in operation
• Use a 6ft hook to open and keep open.
Methods of opening a trunk
•
•
•
Drive in cylinder with a halligan
Pull out the cylinder with a Bam-Bam tool
Cut around the bezel ring on the cylinder, then turn the cylinder with a screw driver.
COMPACTORS / INCINERATORS
Compactor – Put the fire out, plastic bags on sidewalk indicate compactor. Found in apt building.
Incinerator – Clear the blockage, steel cans filled with ash indicate incinerator. Found in
hospitals and govt building.
Incinerator operations


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Officier, FE Team, and OVM – operate inside building to VEIS and locate blockage.
Search floors above and below blockage.
Roof FF – Chocks lobby door, opens bulkhead door on roof. Vent stairways and check
spark arrester for blockage.
Chauffer – duties vary, check incinerator room, operate fans to improve ventilation.
Engine company – stand fast in lobby with masks, roll ups and standpipe kits.
Compactor Operations
Compactor room – should be fire resistive, have a fire door, and an automatic sprinkler.
Chute Fire – 1st engine goes one level above burning material, stretch a line and operate into
the chute to extinguish the fire.



Ladder OV - works with Engine to look for extensions.
Officer, can and irons - operates in the compactor room. Shutoff will be on the wall in
the compactor room.
Roof FF - to the roof to vent.
Fire in Compactor Unit – Engine stretch a line to the first floor and operates into chute.



OV – operates with engine to provide access to the chute
Roof FF – proceed to the roof for vent, search and vent stairways floor.
Officer, can and irons - operates in the compactor room. Shutoff will be on the wall in
the compactor room.
Types of compactors – Electrical (210V), Mechanical 50K packing force), and Hydraulic.
Foam
How foam stops fire - Smothering, Suppressing, Separates, Cools
Typically used on all types of flammable/combustible liquid incidents.
Types of Foam
Fluroprotein (Brown) – 3% foam -not suitable for polar solvent, compatible with dry chem
extinguishers. Adheres to metal surfaces, resists breakdown, superior in preventing re-ignition.
Alcohol – Fluropolydol (Green) – 3% used for hydrocarbons (Gas) and 6% used for polar
solvents (alcohols). Has superior flashback and burnback resistance. Good in all weather.
Corrosive to steel.
Hi – Expansion (Yellow) – used to control fires that are inaccessible or difficult to approach,
indorr class A fires. Should not be used on alcohol or polar solvents, short drainage, poor
burnback, bubbles large than low expansion foam, uses only 60GPM high pump pressure is
needed (200psi – 220psi).
AFFF (Black) – Faster Knockdown than protein based foam, can be used though a fog nozzle,
rapid drainage time causes poor resistance to flashback and burn-back. No suitable for use on
reformulated gasoline or polar solvents. Used in can – 3% concentrate 10oz with 2 gallons of
water.
Foam Proportioning
500 gallon booster – uses 3; 5 gallon cans of concentrate produces 3% solution, pumper should
not be connected to hydrant.
Ladder Companies – carry at least 3 – 5 gallon cans
Engine Companies – carry 2 – 5 gallons of fluroprotein foam concentrate.
Methods of applying foam
•
•
•
•
Direct stream against side or back of the burning area
Direct stream skyward in a slow back and forth motion (rain method)
Directed at the ground in front of the tank in such a manner as to bounce the foam
onto the burning surface.
Direct stream on the ground ahead of the fire.
Foam Carrier Apparatus
10 foam carriers in service, they carry no water, booster tanks filled with 1000 gallons of alcohol
or protein based foam.
Foam Educator – most common way to produce foam, 200 psi at educator inlet, must be placed
at least 1 length from pump panel, up to 4 lengths between nozzle and educator. Flows
between 95 – 120 GPM. Supply with 2.5” hose.
BurnBack resistance – the ability to resist direct flame contact.
Stages of foam creation
Water + foam concentrate = Foam Solution (done typically by foam educator).
Foam Solution + Air = Finished Foam (air is introduced by the aerator on the foam nozzle)
Air Bags
Avoid sharp objects and if over 225 degrees unless protected.
Uses – Lift and move heavy objects, excellent on cylindrical and odd shaped objects, works well
with hurst tool, saw, torch and air chisel.
Requires only and inch for insertion. Two bags may be used for greater height, never more
than two thou.
Airbags have lifespan of 10 years
Never work under a load unless its blocked and shored.
Components – Air Cylinder (painted green), 3 – 16ft long hoses 1- yellow 2-red Can be changed
during operation.
7 bags – from 12 tons (8.2”) – 74 tons (20”) rated height is based on the bags ability to lift ½ the
maximum tonnage to a given height. Ie 12 tons bag can only lift 1 inch & 6 tons to 8.2”.
When high pressure gauge falls below 200psi change air cylinder.
When gauge reading reaches the vicinity of the red mark the safety relief will open (118psi)
and start venting.
Air pressure above 118psi inside the bag will vent.
Normal working pressure is 135psi
Hurst Tools
Inspect Daily and after Each use
Power unit Fuel valve Lever Must be in the OFF position
5-10-20 Rule – 5in from side airbags – 10in from driver airbags and 20” from passenger airbags
First arriving officer must immediately notify the dispatcher when a person is pinned.
Size up – Additional units, 1075 should be considered for several vehicles, downed electrical
wires, gas spills. Types of vehicles, number of injuries, other hazards.
Disentanglement – removal of wreckage from around the victim
Extrication – physical removal of the victim from the vehicle.
Do not CUT – Airbags, Airbags sensors and gas cylinders.
Never Right a vehicle with a victim inside. Vehicles are stabilized the way they are found.
Weight
Length
Width
Height
Max Operating
Pressure
Fluid Reservoir
Mini Mate Simo
Power Unit
60.4lbs
18.11 in
12.4 in
17.4 in
5,000 psi
Hurst MOC II Cutter
47 lbs
30.9 in
9.06 in
8.9 in
5,000 psi
Hurst MLT-32
Spreader
59 lbs
15.5 in
8.25 in
27.5 in
5,000 psi
0.92 Gal
-
-
Cutting Force
Cutter Opening /
spreading distance
Spreader Force
Pulling Force
-
Up to 152,870 lbs
7 in
32 in
-
-
Up to 31,500 lbs
Up to 16,500 lbs
Hurst MLT -32 Spreader – Used to Crush, Spread, Pull Lift, Pinch and Pry Objects
•
•
Has an interchangeable tip system accepts a variety
Dead man control valve reverts back to the neutral position if the
users hands slips from the control
MINI Mate SIMO Power Unit– is a 3hp motor that can power up to 2 tools at the same time
without power loss.
To Operate SIMO Power Unit
Position.
1) Place Pressure / Dump Valve in the dump (HORIZONTAL)
2) Fuel valve must be placed in the on position
3) Place Choke lever in the closed position, Engine Throttle to
max.
4) On/off Switch to the ON Position – Pull starter chord and
move choke to open position.
5) Connect Tools place Pressure / Dump valve in the vertical
position
6) To shut down place pressure dump valve in the dump
position turn the switch to OFF. WHEN STORING PUT FUEL LEVER to the OFF POSITION.
HURST MOC II CUTTER – Star Control valve permits toll actuation from almost any gripping
position. Dead mans grips – no grip = neutral position.
Engine company – Officer divide the company into two teams Officer and two CFR trained FF.
Ladder Company – Officer and inside team proceed to the scene of accident to initiate a
perimeter survey.
Roof and OV – bring hurst tool to accident
Chauffer – position apparatus to block off traffic
Officer – ensure the disconnection of the battery
Door Removal – Attack either the nader pin or hinge side; protect victim; with newer cars attach
hinge side.
Third Door Removal – make 4 cuts – top of B post, Bottom of B post, vertical cut rear of quarter
panel, horizontal cut rear quarter panel at the rocker panel.
Roof removal – Cut low on the A post, High on the B,C,D Posts and cut some portion of the
windshield. Do not cut entire windshield.
Dashboard Displacement – 1st cut on lower A post below hinge parallel to rocker panel, 2nd cut
6-8” above first cut, 3rd cut on the upper portion of the A post. Insert spreaders into void and
spread. A relief cut in the front fender may assist the dashboard displacement.
Vehicle on side – access via front or rear windows or cutting the roof with an air chisel.
Vehicle on roof – access via front or rear windows or door removal, attach hinge side.
Windshield removal - is done with either a windshield saw, a sawzall or an axe.
Side/Rear windows – center punch or halligan to break tempered glass.
Fast Radio Form
Unit Type
1 – Rescue
2 – Command
5 – Engine
6 – Spare
7 – Truck
8 – Squad
Unit
Number
Engine
Truck
Rescue
Squad
1 – Officer
2 – Chauf
3 – Nozzle
4 – Backup
5 – Control
6 - Door
1 – Officer
2 – Chauf
3 – Roof
4 – OV
5 – Irons
6 – Can
1 – Officer
2 – Chauf
3 – Roof
4 – Hook
5 – Irons
6 - Can
1 – Officer
2 – Chauf
3 – Nozzle
4 – Backup
5 – Control
6 – Door
PAC – Tracker
Inspect at the start of each tour and after each use.
Low battery = 20% will operate for 1 hour after low battery goes off. Rechargeable battery. 2
hours to charge. Battery charger flashes red = defective battery; Yellow light = standby mode;
fully charged = solid green.
Do not douse the Pak-tracker with liquids.
Pac-tracker is used to locate an SCBA whose PASS device is in Full Alarm.
Is currently carried by Rescue and squad companies, Rescue battalions and safety battalions.
Shall be
Max Range of the personal transmitter to Pac-tracker receiver is approx 950 ft dependant upon
environmental conditions that may cause interference or reflection.
Turn on Pac-tracker by hold both the Enter(right) and Scroll(Left) buttons at the same time.
Can Store up to 36 SCBA Identities, LCD screen can display two. Once locked onto a signal it
cannot receive any additional PASS alarms.
Once Pac-tracker receives a signal member monitoring must notify the IC with the identity of the
member and unit. When IC decides to use Pac-Tracker only trained members will be used.
To Track a member press the Enter Button ONCE. If multiple PASS alarms go off press and
hold the scroll button for 3 seconds and hold until the person you want to track appears. Release
the Scroll Button and press Enter to Track.
To change which SCBA to track Press and hold Scroll button for 3 seconds.
Sweep Pac Tracker in a horizontal direction first then if suspected sweep vertically.
Pac-tracker Signal will pass though – windows, gaps, holes, elevator shafts, wood light building
materials.
Pac-Tracker signal will NOT pass or Reflect though – Metals, structural framework, concrete
walls or floors, brick or concrete block construction. It will however attempt to pass around these
objects.
Mass Decon
Purpose of Decon
•
Removal of the agent from the victims skin and clothing to prevent any additional
exposure.
•
Protecting responders and medical personnel from cross contamination.
•
Providing psychological comfort to the victims by removing contamination.
Exposed people need to be removed from the area of release to a safe refuge (But Still in the
HOT ZONE). A Safe Refuge is an area that is physically removed from any contamination.
Establish a “Gross Decontamination Corridor” – Processed contaminated victims from the hot
zone or safe refuge will go to the cold zone. The corridor purpose is to remove the
contamination on the skin and clothing by removing clothing and washing skin with water and
soap if available.
For a FF wearing full PPE the percentage of contaminationed that is eliminated by removing
clothing is higher than 90%.
When removing Bunker gear the last piece to be removed is the facepiece.
Factors that will affect which decon procedure is used are, impact of weather conditions on the
water spray for decontamination, PPE available to members.
•
2 - 2.5” handline equipped with aguastream fog nozzle (operated with a fog stream).
Pressure Range is 50 – 80 psi, distance apart is 25ft – 30ft.
•
2 pumpers – each facing the opposite way from each other (passenger side facing each
other). 25ft apart. Aguastream Fog nozzle is attached to the discharge gate. 50 – 80psi is
the pressure range.
•
The third option is to utilize – 2 pumpers and either a Tower Ladder with a turbomaster
fog nozzle or an aerial ladder with a ladder pipe and aguastream fog nozzle at the edge
of the water spray. If no ladder than a 3rd pumper can be used. Water spray with this
config is 20ft wide by 30ft long.
Quick Decon with immediate life threathing exposure – fog nozzle can be attached to the
multiversal on an engine or TL.
When victims exit water spray they meet EMS HAZ-TAC who will evaluate them.
Primary route of expose is from inhalation – SCBA should be adequate protection.
If Decon officier deems necessary than operating members must wear Chemical protective
clothing
Secondary / Personal Decon
Secondary Decon is more complete, time consuming, requires brushes,soap, water (sometimes
heated). FDNY Special ops/Haz-Mat deploys several different shower systems.
CPC Ladder companies,HMC1 ,HMTU carry water containment tubs and garden hoses
Air inflatable tents with designed in shower hoses and portable water heaters are carried by
HMTU and SOC.
Thermal Imaging Camera
Inspect at each Roll Call and after each use.
Shiny surfaces will Reflect IR – creating a mirror effect
Does not See though clear glass or plastic
Depth perception is normally NOT 1:1
RFI – will cause TIC malfunction
Shall be carried and used at all structural fire operations by all units equipped with the tool.
Carried by Ladder,Rescue, Squad, and Hazmat Companies
The TIC is a tool and shall be used as an adjunct to not a replacement for the established
firefighting procedures and practices already in use.
Black - indicates the least amount heat.
White - indicates the most heat in the surrounding area.
Red/Oranage – shows specific temperature ranges.
LOW CONTRAST – occurs in cooler area where images maybe difficult to view. Overall area by
have little or no contrast appear darker.
HIGH CONTRAST – higher heat will show a sharper image as everything in that area absorbs the
heat.
Change in thermal contrast – as conditions change from cooler to hotter. Changing thermal
contrast may indicate close proximity to the fire.
Convected heat – will appear at White swirling waves or smoke by the ceiling because heat rises.
Uses
•
Interior - search and rescue operations
•
Fire suppression operations – handline placement,
•
Roof operations – ventilation, extension, navigation, FF accountability.
•
Overhaul operations – location and extension
•
Odor of smoke/evaluations – chimneys, flues, duct fires, brush fires
•
FAST Truck Operations – follow hoselines, locate missing or downed member
•
Emergencies – Electrical, motors, circuits, Ballast, person in water, woods,
•
HAZMAT – spilled liquids, some vapor clouds, liquid level in container.
Tactical Applications
Initial size up – fire locations, fire extension and location of people at windows obscured by
smoke.
Interior Search and rescue – stay low and slowly scan the area start at the ceiling and go side to
side.
CARBON MONOXIDE
Visual (1sec red light) and low audible warning (every 1 sec) with a slow vibration (every 1 sec)
is give off when concentration of CO Exceeds 35PPM
Visual (1/2 sec) and high audible warning(every ½ sec) with a fast vibration (every1/2 sec) is
given off if the concentration of CO exceeds 100PPM
The left button is the only button to be used by the field units – all other buttons for fire tool
and equipment use.
To turn off monitor press and hold circular button on left for 5 seconds.
Units is water resistant with a concussion proof housing.
Calibration is done every 6 months.
Low Battery – 1 beep every 5 seconds, 1 flash every 5 seconds, 1 quick vibration every minute
– screen will display low batt on it.
RAD 50
Radalert should be in the audio position for proper operation.
Mode needs to be in the mR/Hr position
Alarm level should be SET at 1.00 mR/Hr
Backround radations is normally .02 - .05 millirems per hour.
Maintenance – every 3 months battery (9v) should be changed – January 1st, April 1st, Oct. 1st
All reports should be communicated to the IC or Hazmat group to be determined if it’s a
radiological incident or a radiological emergency.
Above 1.00mR/Hr a circular pattern should be used to determine the size of the isolation zone,
the Hotline or Hot zone should be established at a rate of 2 mR/Hr and marked with a red
“hazardous material” barrier.
All elevated levels ( .05 - .9 mR/Hr ) should be reported by the officer on duty to the hazmat
operations.
Elevators
Incident – A stuck elevator with trapped passengersd not in immediate danger and no evidence
of injury.
Emergency – A stuck Elevator with passengers either being endangered from fire, injured or
panicking.
All initial techniques are the same for emergency and incidents, although additional removal
techniques are acceptable in lieu of waiting for assistance of an elevator mechanic.
Ventilation opening is the Smoke Hole Do not step on it.
Members should be equipped with the FE tools and HT
Location of the car
•
Locate the car by lobby panel – check floor indicator
•
Communication with the passengers via the following methods, elevator car telephone,
intercom, yelling up hoistway or though car doors. Make sure emergency bell is
deactivated.
•
Open the hoistway door and look up the shaft for the approx floor.
•
Couterweight location – 6 story building with service to the elevator, if the
counterweight is on the 1st floor the car would be on the 5th floor.
•
Enter a car in the same bank and open the top hatch
•
Look at the floor selector in the machinery room to find the exact position of the
elevator car.
Primary Removal Procedure
This is be the start on all emergency and incidents. This is a simple approach without turning off
the elevator power.
Electrical is the most common cause of problems, most common are car or hoistway door
contacts open, blown fuses, shorting of electrical cables. The following can be expected with
electrical problems, elevator will be suspended on hoistway cables and brakes applied.
•
Check elevator contacts, deactivate emergency stop button.
•
Passenger – press door open button if car is level with the landing.
•
Press lobby call button
•
Passengers – check door to make sure they are fully closed, push towards close position
•
Have members physically close all hoistway door on the shaft. Check hoistway doors in
the vicinity of the stuck car.
•
Activate Firemen Service – this will override the emergency stop button. The key is a
1620 key
•
Deactive the firemen service when the car return to the lobby.
•
Call the Elevator mechanic – move on to secondary removal procedures.
Secondary Removal procedures.
•
Power Removal is done for all secondary and emergency removal procedures.
•
Two members to the elevator machinery room to shut off power
•
Determine which shaft and power switch to cut.
•
Remain by the power switch throughout the operation to insure the power is not
restored.
•
Upon completion DO NOT restore power to the stalled CAR.
•
Prior to removal of passengers the power must be off.
•
Between floor – take them UP AND OUT.
•
Memebers operating in the shaft should be secured by the LSR
•
DO not go in the shaft below the car or jackup in an upward direction or adjust breaks.
•
If breaks are doubtful place heavy timber or iron bar in the elevator spokes of hoisting
drum to secure or secure to structural member via utility ropes, chains or shoring.
Secondary Removal Operation
•
Remove passengers via elevator car and hoistway door using elevator key
•
Passengers of the stuck can help by attempting to open the door by extering force on
the open position.
•
If elevator has two speeds (building over 10 stories) system can be reset by shutting
down and restoring the power. It the car is to restart it will do so in 10 seconds.
Deactivation of Estop button should have been done prior to PRIMARY PROCEDURES.
•
If car is stuck in a multicar hoistway – POLING can be used.
Types of Elevator hoistway Doors
•
Center Opening Doors
•
Swing Doors
•
Single Slide Doors
•
Two Speed Elevator Doors
Emergency Removal Procedures
Primary and secondary procedures are faster than emergency removal procedures Power to
stuck elevator must be off when you use Emergency removal procedures.
Top Hatch Removal
•
Lower ladder – no more than two FF at a elevator roof of the car at one time.
•
All member working in the shaft are to be secured with the LSR
•
Member remain in physical contact with trapped persons while they are being
removed.
Side Exit Removal
•
Members must work from a car in the same elevator bank and is adjacent to the
stuck car.
•
Remove power to rescue car – place planks 6ft of longer to bridge cars
•
Member are secured to HT and LSR
•
Secure All passengers with LSR
•
After rescue is done restore power to only the rescue car.
•
Forcible Entry is the last resort
Hinge Door
•
Knockout glass breach shaft
•
Push down roller – open hoistway door than elevator.
Slide Type Doors
•
Maxi force air bags – preferred forcible entry less likely to push doors off track
Elevator Pit Operations
Types of Pits – Jump pits & Walk In Pits
Jump Pits – 4 - 6ft from the lowest landing
Walk in Pit – 6-10ft access to pit is via a door located at the bottom of the shaft, door will not
have an interlock switch.
Fireman Service
Fireman Service – 1620 key or a 2642 key – located within 4ft of the lobby call button.
Key Switch - 1) On lobby floor – Normal and FF Service
•
All other floors – Normal, FF Service, Door Open
Hold Position – permits FF to remove 1620 key from the switch, leave car without danger of an
individual moving it.
Moving a car with the 1620 key must inform all FF operating on the floor
Lobby keyed switch must be in the FF service prior to placing the car keyed switch to fireman
service.
Recall Phase – All elevator in the bank will go to their home position Estop button do not work
during a recall.
When elevator car reaches its floor using the 1620 key the elevator doors will remain open for
at least 8 seconds and no more than a minute.
To test Fireman service – hit close door button, select a floor, once car moves press call cancel
button to verify operation. If it does not work abandon elevator at the next floor.
When an elevator car is in fireman service it shall be operated with a FF equipped with a HT and
forcible entry tools.
Fire on the 7th floor or below units should avoid the use of elevators.
Do not use an elevator in a bank which services the fire floor if a lower level elevator comes
within 5 floor of the fire.
When using an elevator put into fireman service – go at least two floors below the fire floor.
Service elevator shall not be used until it is declared safe for use by the officer in command of
the fire.
No more than 6 members shall be permitted in any elevator car
Elevators should be stopped every 5 floors to confirm that the elevators will respond to the
selected floor.
In extreme emergency FD hose can be used to slide down to the floor below if more than 1
length tie off then couple together.
If an elevator does not have a fireman service installed use the elevator in manual mode.
Members should never take a fireman service elevator which services all floors to go above the
fire. Use a fire tower or a stairway other than the attack stairs.
Subway Emergencies
FD Personnel will never be permitted to operate on track area unless assured that the power
is off, unless there is a known life hazard.
If power is not needed to be shut off, only the officer and the FF (operating as a team), will be
permitted to use Catwalks and platform, but tracks shall not be entered.
Until the fire is located engine companies shall not connect to a hydrant.
All efforts must be made to place the initial handline before starting any backup handlines.
Fire under the platform – 1) Power need to be removed 2) Confirmation of power removal by
FD Dispatcher 3) Safety Members at each end of platform 4) Alt area of refugee is assured in
case of train movement.
Whenever FF are committed to a Track area FF shall be assigned in pairs to act as warning
guards officer to ensure that they are posted at the perimeter.
To halt traffic – use a light at chest height and move in a wide horizontal motion.
Activation of the Power Removal box does not alleviate he officer in command of the
responsibility of requesting and confirming the removal of power via the Department Radio
with the Borough Communication Office.
Handie-Talkie Relay
Truck Chauffer – Bottom of the subway entrance stairs, If token clerk booth is within 50 yards of
the stairs contact train dispatcher though the clerk.
OV FF – The foot of the staris leading to the platform if it is within 50 yards of the chauffer.
Roof FF – Approx 50 yards from the stairs on the platform for relay.
Officer – Approx 100 yards from roof FF on platform.
Truck Officer – to the fire location, gets the token booth telephone number. If another phone in
the fire area will call the LCC and the LCC will relay to the Chief Officer.
Additional HT equipped members every 100 yards.
Colored Light Globes
Green Post light – stairway open 24 hours a day, token booth clerk on duty or a high entry
turnstile access with a 1620 key.
RED Post light – token booth may NOT be on duty or stairway may be closed.
Construction
Blue Light – should have a telephone, Fire extinguisher and power removal box.
Power Removal Box – If used, contact the Desk supervisor via the telephone and let him know
that the FD is on seen. If no immediate call power will be restored. If there is no answer or
phone is OOS station a man at the power removal box to continue to shut off the power. After 3
times someone should come to investigate.
Cut Outs – Areas of refuge for a person to stand while a train passes by, Members are required
to do the low profile maneuver for their masks.
No Clearance signs – marked with diagonal red and white stripes on the wall.
Subway Emergency Exits – A prism shaped sign or a cluster of 5 white lights identifies
Emergency Exits. These exits will lead up to the street.
Emergency Evacuation Device
Located – at ground and grade stations at the first blue light located south of the southbound
platform. At elevated stations – it is located in the area of the full time token booth, keys are in
token
7ft long with steps on the front and a flat backside, is yellow.
When positioned against the side or end doors the EED will reach the roadbed at approx. 70
degrees.
Nolan ATS
Inspected periodically based on the company commanders.
Each cart is marked with the unit designation to ensure proper identification.
Weight – 48lbs, 2 handles and 2 bases.
Any Engine company may be called to transport a rail cart from the quarters where it is stored
to the scene of an incident.
One wheel is provided with a wheel lock – a red square is painted on the surface of the rail cart
to denote the location of the wheel lock.
Connector plate- used to connect multiple rail cars.
Deployment – when the IC wants it and upon transmission of signal 7-5 (All Hands) “Doubtful”
or greater alarm.
Stretches and stokes basket should extend over the front and rear of the car.
Multiversal Nozzle
Range of elevation is – 15 degrees below the horizontal or 90 degrees above the horizontal.
Safety stop is at 35 degrees – do not use unless mounted or tied down with ropes.
Horizontal Friction Lock – holds the multiversal in place permits 180 degree travel horizontally.
Safety Chain to Fire
Do no operate at more than 800 Gpm, use the below chart.
Stacked Tips –
 1 ¼” – 100 psi
 1/ ½” – 70 psi
 2” – 50 psi
Siamese – two 3” clapper swivels to supply the multiversal.
15ft of hose from the Siamese should be kept straight and parallel to each other.
After each use the spikes hall be inspected, if they exceed 1/16 they will need to be sharpened
or replaced.
If unable to secure in the portable ground base the unit shall be placed out of service.
The Max pressure to which any part should be subjected is 200psi.
Vacant Building
Definition – a structure that is completely unoccupied and all efforts to maintain the building in
a livable condition have been abandoned by the owner.
A vacant does not mean no live hazard – it could have trespassers, derelicts, children, workmen
etc.
Indication of tenants – lights, curtain, shades, plants, window gates, electric extension wires
from utility pole, holes, forced entry.
IC may implement an interior attack if,
• Current structural stability of the building
• Any known life hazard
• Size and location of the fire
• Verification of safe access to fire area.
Members must adjust to a “no rush” approach.
HUD Windows – are sealed up windows with boards of wood bracing them from inside and large
lag screws though the boards.
Vacant Marking – 18” x 18” SQUARE Box lines 2” wide with Reflective Lime Yellow Paint.
Typically on the Front entrance – can also be fire escapes, roof, bulkhead if deemed
advantageous.
RO – indicates Roof Open
Chain Saws
1.
Except for pier fire operations, the chain saw is not to be used for the ventilation
or overhauling of structural fires.
2. While operating the chain saw, the operator and control person shall wear the
following NFPA compliant and FDNY approved protective equipment: Long
sleeve work duty shirt or bunker coat, helmet, eye protection, ear protection, saw
protected gloves, bunker boots, and saw protected chaps.
3. Keep body to the left of the chain. Never straddle the saw or lean across chain
4. Properly position yourself for cutting. Hold saw near log and throttle up to full
speed just before allowing chain to touch wood.
5.
Pull-in:
1. Pull-in occurs when the chain on the bottom of the bar is suddenly
stopped. The chain on the bottom of the bar stops when it is pinched,
caught or encounters a foreign object in the wood. The reaction of the
chain pulls the saw forward and may cause the operator to lose control.
2. Pull-in frequently occurs when the bumper spike of the saw is not held
securely against the tree or limb and when the chain is not rotating at full
speed before it contacts the wood.
Warning: Use extreme caution when cutting small size brush and
saplings which may easily catch the chain and pull you off balance.
3. To avoid pull-in:
1. Always start a cut with the chain rotating at full speed and the
bumper spike in contact with the wood.
2. Pull-in may also be prevented by using wedges to open the kerf.
6. Saw is to be operated only by members trained in its proper use.
7. 6.2 Saw shall not be operated from a ladder.
8. 6.3 While operating the chain saw, the operator and control person shall wear the
following NFPA compliant and FDNY approved protective equipment: Long
sleeve work duty shirt or bunker coat, helmet, eye protection, ear protection, saw
protected gloves, bunker boots, and saw protected chaps.
1. 7.3.1 Chaps must be worn over either long pants or bunker pants. Chaps
shall not be worn over shorts.
2. 7.3.2 Bunker coat and/or long sleeve shirt shall be worn to protect against
flying debris, insect bites, poison ivy, etc.
Warning: Bunker coat, bunker pants, and firefighting gloves are NOT saw
protected and will NOT prevent the chain saw blade from inflicting severe
injury.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
The kickback potential is very real. Members are not to tamper with or remove
manufacturer safety devices.
Saw is not to be used in situations where the vision of the operator is limited.
Never attempt cutting a tree which is in contact with live electrical wires. TREES
DO CONDUCT ELECTRICITY.
Always hold running saw with both hands. Never overreach or operate saw above
your shoulders.
Use a sharp chain.
Rotate saw operators, never permit a fatigued member to operate the saw.
When transporting, refueling or performing maintenance, the saw must be in the
"OFF" position.
Keep chain of saw away from all parts of body while motor is running.
Avoid fuel or skin contact with the hot muffler.
Never cut while wearing loose clothing such as torn or hanging bunker coat
stripes.
19.
20.
21.
Use saw protected gloves when operating saw and handling chain.
Operate only in well-ventilated areas.
Always hold saw with two hands properly positioned when engine is running.
Portable Power Saws





High speed, two cycle engine
Special suction wick; allow saw to operate regardless of position, such as upside
down, sideways, etc.
Three different types of blades:
Gasoline/oil mixture: 4.8 fluid ounces of oil to one gallon of gasoline
20 to 30 minutes operating time
CARBIDE TIP:


 Will cut through gravel & tar covered roofs, wood flooring, light sheet metal
and similar material (pictured above).
 Not to be used on metal security doors, auto bodies, metal window bars &
case hardened locks, etc.
Dislodged carbide tips can become airborne & cause injuries

 Blades are placed out of service when eight (8) or more tips are missing,
broken,
or worn down to the circumference of the blade. ALUMINUM OXIDE (Abrasive
Disc):
Will cut various types of steel, including auto bodies, metal security doors,
metal window bars, etc.
SILCON CARBIDE (Abrasive Disc):
Will cut through concrete & other masonry materials
Painted yellow, on both sides, to differentiate from the aluminum oxide blade
Abrasive disc blades are placed out of service whenever they are cracked or
badly nicked, center of hole wears out of round, or blade is worn down to 8
inches or less.