We've discussed this before, but for the benefit of the "newbies" and future officer candidates, I feel this topic needs to be "dragged out of the depths"...
Collapse. A word no one wants to hear (even when there isnt a fire involved)
The potential for serious or fatal injuries to "us" and "them" is greatly increased when a collapse is involved.
A lot of depts have become pro-active and now have their dispatcher advise them of "length of operation"- an excellent move that I think everyone should be utilizing...
...But, and even easier move & also "fool-proof" costs about 99 cents at any 99 cent store- an "egg" timer (or any hand-wind or battery operated timer you prefer). This simple tool will give the
IC a very good idea of how long we've been operating.
Not only for the simple "maybe we should change our game plan", but for the "operating for 22 minutes with heavy fire still going- STRUCTURAL FAILURE IMMINENT"
Now, there are a million different theories on "how long you have", but, you should ALWAYS keep the "Collapse potential" in mind....
The "theories" (in my opinion) are a good guideline, but you never know what your facing.....
...EVERY house and/or building is different. Besides "pre-planning", you cant set one hard &
fast rule for ANY structure.
...Dont think you have 15 mins of "fire load" on a heavy timber truss- Your 15 minutes may not match up to the 45 mins that the fire has been licking at it.
...And again, its not just "buildings"- private dwellings pose a large threat as well. Boilers and/or storage located under staircases, "lolly columns" removed by the homeowner for "more space", etc. All the factors should fit into your game plan.
As always, use your head, whether you the
IC or just John Q Firefighter. If ya see something, say something. A 200 Gallon fishtank on the 2nd floor of a house weighs roughly 1600 lbs (add rocks, etc). A lot of private dwellings arent sutied to deal with 1600 lbs of fish tank, a 400 lb dresser, 300 lb bed, etc... now throw an 1 3/4" into the mix for 2 or 3 mins and you have the potential for the "express elevator".
Tips, tools, techniques- lets hear 'em!
Potential Collapses
Linear Mode
