Fire Operations in the Wildland/Urban Interface S-215

Transcription

1 Fire Operations in the Wildland/Urban Interface S-215 NFES 2171 Student Workbook SEPTEMBER, 2003

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4 Description of the Performance Based System The NWCG Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualifications System is a performance-based qualifications system. In this system, the primary criterion for qualification is individual performance as observed by an evaluator using approved standards. This system differs from previous wildland fire qualifications systems which have been training based. Training based systems use the completion of training courses or a passing score on an examination as a primary criteria for qualification. A performance-based system has two advantages over a training based system: Qualification is based upon real performance, as measured on the job, versus perceived performance, as measured by an examination or classroom activities. Personnel who have learned skills from sources outside wildland fire suppression, such as agency specific training programs or training and work in prescribed fire, structural fire, law enforcement, search and rescue, etc., may not be required to complete specific courses in order to qualify in a wildfire position. 1. The components of the wildland fire qualifications system are as follows: a. Position Task Books (PTB) contain all critical tasks which are required to perform the job. PTBs have been designed in a format which will allow documentation of a trainee s ability to perform each task. Successful completion of all tasks required of the position, as determined by an evaluator, will be the basis for recommending certification. IMPORTANT NOTE: Training requirements include completion of all required training courses prior to obtaining a PTB. Use of the suggested training courses or job aids is recommended to prepare the employee to perform in the position. b. Training courses and job aids provide the specific skills and knowledge required to perform tasks as prescribed in the PTB. c. Agency Certification is issued in the form of an incident qualification card certifying that the individual is qualified to perform in a specified position. 2. Responsibilities The local office is responsible for selecting trainees, proper use of task books, and certification of trainees, see appendix A of the NWCG Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualification System Guide, PMS 310-1, for further information.

5 Fire Operations in the Wildland/Urban Interface S-215 Student Workbook SEPTEMBER, 2003 NFES 2171 Sponsored for NWCG publication by the NWCG Training Working Team Comments regarding the content of this publication should be directed to: National Interagency Fire Center, National Fire Training Support Group, 3833 S. Development Ave., Boise, Idaho Additional copies of this publication may be ordered from National Interagency Fire Center, ATTN: Great Basin Cache Supply Office, 3833 South Development Avenue, Boise, Idaho Order NFES 2171.

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7 PREFACE S-215 Fire Operations in the Wildland/Urban Interface is required training for single resource bosses (tractor/plow, dozer, engine, or crew) who are seeking certification as incident commander Type 4 (ICT4) and/or strike team leader (STLP, STDZ, STEN, STCR) as identified in the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG), Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualification System Guide (PMS 310-1). This course was developed by an interagency group of experts with direction and guidance from Fire Training located at the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC). The primary participants in this development effort were: Gil Gray - Rapid City Department of Fire and Emergency Services Dan Snow - USDA Forest Service Robert Pantrich - USDI Bureau of Indian Affairs Pete Peterson - USDA Forest Service Joe Mazzeo - USDI Park Service Dan Dyer - California Division of Forestry Craig Cook - USDI Bureau of Indian Affairs The NWCG appreciates the efforts of these personnel and all those who have contributed to the develoment of this training course including Al Crouch, USDI Bureau of Land Management, for his original electronic presentation program. i

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9 CONTENTS Preface... i Contents... iii Introduction... 1 Course Instructions... 3 Unit 1 - Interface Awareness Unit 2 - Size-Up Unit 3 - Initial Strategy and Action Plan Unit 4 - Structure Triage Unit 5 - Structure Protection Tactics Lesson A - Initial Operations and Site Preparation... 5A.1 Lesson B - Engine Operations, Water Use and Class A Foam... 5B.1 Lesson C - Support Resources...5C.1 Lesson D - Firing Operations... 5D.1 Unit 6 - Action Plan Assessment and Update Unit 7 - Follow-up and Public Relations Unit 8 - Firefighter Safety In The Interface Appendix A - Glossary of Terms... A-1 iii

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11 INTRODUCTION S-215 Fire Operations in the Wildland/Urban Interface is a 28 hour course designed to meet the training needs for incident commanders (Type 4), strike team leaders, and company officers confronting wildland fire that threatens life, property and improvements in the wildland/urban interface. This workbook is designed to help the student learn the principles used in suppressing wildland fire and/or protecting structures in the wildland/urban interface area; hereafter referred to as the interface. The majority of the workbook is to be used as a note taking guide, but other practical information and exercises are included. Many terms used by both wildland and structure firefighters have different meanings to each. A glossary is included for your reference and/or review. To measure how well you received and retained this information, there will be unit tests covering the material presented and a final examination covering all the course material. Students must obtain an average score of 70 percent or higher on the closed book unit tests and final examination to receive a certificate of course completion. 1

12 COURSE OBJECTIVE This course provides the student with the skills and knowledge to size-up a wildland/urban interface fire incident, evaluate the potential situation, order and deploy the necessary resources, and apply safe and effective strategy and tactics to minimize the threat to life and property. Unit objectives are located at the beginning of each unit in the student workbook and define what the student will be able to do at the completion of the unit. 2

13 Fire Operations In the Wildland/Urban Interface, S-215 Unit 1 - Interface Awareness OBJECTIVES: 1. Discuss how preparing for and responding to interface fires is a shared responsibility. 2. Describe the human and environmental factors in the interface that affect critical decision making and require situational awareness for firefighter safety. 3. Identify the value of the Incident Command System as an effective tool to manage interface fires. 4. Discuss the importance of knowing your agency policy relating to interface fires. 1.1

14 INTRODUCTION The wildland/urban interface is a zone where human-made improvements intermix with wildland fuels. The wildland/urban interface will hereafter be referred to as the interface in this course. Due to the growing number of homes and other structures in America s interface, it is almost inevitable that wildland and structure firefighters will find themselves in dangerous role reversals for which they may not be mentally prepared, adequately trained, or physically equipped. Wildland firefighters may be called on to protect threatened structures, and structure firefighters may be called on to help suppress fires in wildland fuels that threaten structures. The trend throughout the country is for increased growth and development in the interface. With this increased growth comes a corresponding increase in exposure for the nation s wildland and structure firefighters to interface fires. It is therefore critical to find ways to increase firefighters safety under these conditions. The most direct way to improve the safety of both structure and wildland firefighters is cross-training, mental preparation, and improved equipment. Cross-training is being done in some regions throughout the country, however, it is not standard practice in all regions. Some regions are improving and updating their fire fighting equipment. Until cross-training programs and equipment updates become universal, a good understanding of situational awareness may be the tool that saves firefighters lives. Over the past ten years, wildland/urban interface fires have occurred in almost every state in the United States. Statistics show that over 300 structures have burned each year since While the natural fuels may differ across geographic areas of the country, one factor remains constant: the risk to firefighters who suppress interface fires. The interface offers a uniquely hazardous environment in which the wildland and structure firefighters operate. Due to the nature of interface fires, firefighters face an increased risk for entrapment, exposure to hazardous materials and chemicals, and possible injury or death, if mistakes are made. 1.2

15 I. PREPARING FOR AND RESPONDING TO WILDLAND/URBAN INTERFACE FIRES IS A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY A. Wildland/Urban Interface Fire Definition A wildland/urban interface fire needs to be defined in order to describe the shared responsibility necessary to manage this kind of situation. The wildland/urban interface is the zone where human-made improvements meet and intermix with wildland fuels; commonly referred to as the Interface or I-Zone. The wildland/urban interface will be referred to as the Interface in this course. B. Groups Responsible for Sharing Responsibility EXERCISE: Identify what the groups (government, landowner/homeowner, firefighting agency, and firefighters) responsibilities are concerning fires in the interface. 1. Government s (federal, state, and local) responsibility 2. Landowners /homeowners responsibilities 1.3

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17 II. HUMAN AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS IN THE INTERFACE In the rapidly changing arena of interface fires there are many factors that will affect critical decision making and require situational awareness for firefighter safety. EXERCISE: 1. Identify what challenges you think are unique to firefighters when fighting interface fires. 2. Identify what situational awareness things firefighters can do to keep themselves safe in these unique situations. 1.5

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19 III. INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM (ICS) AS A TOOL FOR EFFECTIVENESS AND SAFETY FOR INTERFACE FIRES A. The Solution to Chaos and Confusion 1. ICS was originally developed in California to improve response to wildland/urban interface fires (FIRESCOPE). 2. NFPA 1561 Standard for Incident Management System. 3. Accepted as the standard approach to incident management by all Federal Wildland Firefighting Agencies. 4. Widely accepted and used by many structure firefighting organizations. 5. Accepted as the standard approach to incident management by many other agencies (FEMA, National Fire Academy, DOT, U.S. Coast Guard, Military when responding to civil incidents, etc.). 6. Clearly defines the responsibility of an Incident Commander and provides a mechanism to define who is in charge. 7. Addresses multi-agency and jurisdictional issues. 8. Facilitates growth of the organization to support incident needs. 9. Provides common terminology for incident management. 1.7

20 B. Features of ICS 1. Management functions (only fill positions and functions as necessary) Command Operations Logistics Planning Finance/Administration 2. Organizational flexibility (add additional positions as incident requires) Initial attack (Type 5 incident) Initial attack with mutual aid (Type 4 incident) Extended attack (Type 3 incident) Incident Management Teams (Type 2 and Type 1 incidents) Consolidating separate incidents (Area Command) 3. Establishment and transfer of command 4. Unity of command 5. Management by objectives 6. Chain of command 7. Span of control 8. Common terminology 9. Resources management Single resources Strike teams Task forces 10. Incident action plan 1.8

21 IV. AGENCY POLICY EXERCISE: Fire suppression forces are increasingly being dispatched to incidents or situations that may not fall under their primary responsibilities. It is important to remember that agency policy limits which activities firefighters may engage in. Another limiting factor is firefighter personal protective clothing, equipment, and training levels. If you never work together you ll never know all the policies. A. Firefighting Policy Public relations problems The public doesn t care about the color of the truck or the uniform. They pay taxes and want the fire put out or their home saved. They don t care what agency policy has to take into account. All firefighters must know and understand their agency policy. Wildland firefighting agencies involved with vehicle or structure fires. Structure firefighters involved with wildland firefighting. Discuss the agency policy pertaining to interface fires of the students attending the course. 1.9

22 B. Out of Jurisdiction Responses What authority is the criterion for agencies or departments to leave their jurisdiction? 1. Policy limitations stay with the employee. a. You must follow your agency s policy even if working for another agency. b. Always inform supervisors of home agency policy. 2. Safety should always be the primary guide in decision making. Find a good quick reference book. Standards for Fire and Aviation Operations (Redbook) which has been adopted by most federal agencies (available on the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) Website at Department or State Policy Handbook If you are uncomfortable in dealing with certain circumstances or situations, ask the people working with you. Someone may have experience in that area. If unsure, don t go! If it s a policy problem, asking about it on the fire is too late. 1.10

23 V. MUTUAL AID SITUATIONS Mutual aid is a vital tool for today s fire service. No single agency can go it alone when facing a major interface disaster. Faced with decreasing resources, ever expanding urban growth into traditional wildland areas and a demand for increased fire protection, local agencies must turn to their neighbors for assistance. In recent years we have witnessed a greater number of situations where neighbor helps neighbor, wildland firefighters help structure firefighters, structure engines work on wildfires, and everyone is working together on structure defense. As is to be expected, there are issues that need to be resolved whenever two or more agencies are working together. Agencies likely to work together must train together to: Gain valuable exposure to each other s capabilities. Expose equipment and safety limitations. Reduce or eliminate agency differences. Overcome the lack of training and experience in various areas of firefighting. Develop a network for finding out about new tools and tricks of the trade. 1.11

24 VI. CONCLUSION A. Coordination and Shared Responsibility Coordinated efforts between government, home owners, firefighting agencies, and firefighters before the fire occurs are essential to ensure firefighter and civilian safety during these events. After the fire starts, firefighting efforts must be performed within the context of standard operating procedures that mitigate risk to those performing their duties in the interface fire environment. B. Unified Command When establishing an incident command where multi-jurisdiction has brought both wildland and structural firefighting forces together, establish a unified command where both organizations are represented at the command level. 1.12

25 Fire Operations In the Wildland/Urban Interface, S-215 Unit 2 - Size-up OBJECTIVES: 1. Describe items to consider when sizing-up an interface fire, prior to and after arriving at the scene. 2. Describe items to consider when sizing-up resources needed for an interface fire. 3. Describe the six components of a size-up report. 2.1

26 I. PRE-INCIDENT PLANNING A. Firewise Communities/USA Firewise Communities/USA is a unique opportunity available to America s fire-prone communities. Its goal is to encourage and acknowledge action that minimizes home loss to wildfire. The Firewise activities are sponsored by the National Wildland/Urban Interface Fire Program. Firewise publishes numerous educational materials, shares these publications and much more on its web site ( and operates the Firewise Communities effort. B. Pre-Attack Planning Interface areas should be pre-planned to provide an overview of the possible actions, hazards, resources, etc., beneficial during an incident. These plans should be jointly prepared by all agencies potentially involved. Different agencies may have different names for these plans, e.g., Pre- Attack Plans, Pre-Planned Dispatch, and National Fire Management Analysis Planning. 1. Initial attack incident commanders are advised to obtain these plans and be knowledgeable of their content. Also learn and consider other environmental restrictions concerning threatened and endangered species, restrictions on firefighting resource use; minimum impact suppression tactics (MIST), etc. 2. Initial attack incident commanders should know how to activate mutual aid systems for their area of responsibility. 2.2

27 II. SIZE-UP Size-up is a systematic process consisting of the rapid, but thorough consideration of all critical factors leading to the development of a rational plan of attack. The size-up process continues until the completion of the incident. Size-up will produce the critical information you must have to make proper decisions and take appropriate action. Sizing-up an interface fire is somewhat the same as sizing up a wildland fire. Size-up is accomplished by all individuals regardless of their level of authority and position on the incident. The principles that will be discussed should assist you in sizing-up any interface fire incident. The size-up process consists of the following: A. Pre-incident size-up B. At the scene size-up C. Resource size-up D. Size-up report III. STEP 1: PRE-INCIDENT SIZE-UP The initial step in the size-up process should begin long before the incident occurs. Many factors are available to assist you in developing your action plan. Most pre-incident planning documents or pre-attack plans have considered the factors necessary for a thorough pre-incident size-up and will save you this step. Obtain a copy of these plans. 2.3

28 If no plans are available considering the following factors will help you determine the general fire problem and fire potential for that area on that day. A. Previous Fires B. Fuels Knowledge of previous fires in an area can be a valuable tool. Wildfires tend to follow historic patterns, given similar weather conditions. Many old-timers made reputations using this type of knowledge and appeared only to make instinctive tactical moves. Most organizations can make fire history information available to you. Find it and use it. Know the predominant fuels in the area. Fuel type: grass, brush, timber, slash. Loading Live and dead fuel moisture Age arrangement Structural fuels - Could there be structural fuels, wood shingles or shakes involved? C. Weather Know local weather conditions and forecasts. Temperature Relative humidity Projected wind speed and general direction Atmospheric stability (Haynes Index) Drought conditions (Palmer Drought Index). See local geographic area coordination center (GACC) website, exposure protection. The fire will get larger and expose more structures. 2.4

29 D. Topography Observe the general layout of the area Canyons - Are they wide or narrow? - Are they flat or steep? - Do they run parallel or perpendicular to the general winds? - Are they box or dead end canyons? Ridges - Notice steepness of ridge lines, saddles, and chimneys. Barriers - Notice physical barriers, both natural and artificial (potential control points). Elevation - Consider the general elevation. It will have an effect on your fuels (types and moisture) and your weather conditions (weather and temperatures). Position on slope - Consider whether the fire is on a lower slope, mid-slope, or near top. Aspect - north, east, south, or west. Will often determine fuels and fuel concentration levels. Also an effect on fuel moisture and temperature. 2.5

30 E. Time of Year/Day (EXAMPLES: summer homes, occupancy elderly/retired community, latch key kids, school day, seasonal maintenance and upkeep) Summer vs. winter Day vs. night Seasonal areas - vacationers The peak burning period for that day The effect the season has on fuel moisture may determine fire intensity F. Additional Information Many times it is possible to get additional pertinent information from your communications center. Pre-attack plans Fire weather forecast Fire Danger for today Projected fire conditions: flame length, spotting factors, rate of spread Resource availability for your agency and cooperators Potential for structural exposure Location of structures in relation to surrounding wildland fuels, topography, elevation, barriers, etc. Water supply Feedback from other sources: detection, aerial reconnaissance flights, observers, lookouts, etc. Evaluation of this information should begin to give you a good picture of the fire potential for a specific area on any given day. Your initial size-up prior to arrival at an interface incident should give you the foundation from which good future decisions may be built. 2.6

31 IV. STEP 2: AT THE SCENE SIZE-UP The second step in your size-up process begins on your way to and arrival at the fire scene. It is important for you to quickly assess the situation. In an interface fire situation, this process will give you the additional information needed to determine the relative vulnerability of exposed structures and the needed information to order the necessary resources. Usually, the primary responsibility on these incidents is to protect structures and improvements. Although rescue is not stressed in this lesson, we know that it takes precedence over firefighting. At times, extinguishing the fire is the best form of rescue. Do not forget about the wildland fire if you start rescue or exposure protection. The fire will get larger and expose more structures. Consideration of the following factors will allow you to be better mentally prepared: A. Structures and Improvements First priority is protection of homes over other improvements. (The following is only a tickler list!) Number, arrangement and kinds of structures and the potential for them to contain hazardous materials. Look at the placement of improvements and anticipate fire behavior, note clearance around structure(s) (defensible space). Size, height and occupancy type. Construction features: roof coverings, wood shake or shingle roofs (probably the greatest single hazard), wood siding, decks, eaves (exposed vs. covered), attic vents, rain gutters (empty or full of debris). 2.7

32 Safety and rescue. Evacuation could involve both people and animals. Note safe refuge areas (outside and inside or behind structures). Consider other hazards, some hidden (septic tanks, insecticide storage) and some obvious (power lines and LPG and fuel tanks). Water supplies - note location, availability and reliability. Combustibles located near structures - can they be removed? B. Access C. Fuel Ingress and egress, note one-way or narrow roads, dead end roads, and cul-de-sacs. Type of fuel (grass, brush, timber, ornamentals). Note the size, arrangement, continuity, and their proximity to structures and improvements. Age of fuel - observe the amount of dead material in the fuel. Consider structure fuels - a very high volume fuel that produces large amounts of radiated and convective heat. Wood shake and shingle fires are difficult to extinguish and may cause spot fires. D. Weather Wind - note wind speed and direction (probably the key element of wildland fire behavior). Local winds may be quite different from general winds. They will be influenced by topography, fuels, structures, and in major fire incidents, by the fire itself. Temperature - affects fire behavior as it affects your fuels (solar heating and drying). 2.8

33 Humidity - dryer air is better able to pick up water vapor from the fuel. The result is that less time is required for heat to bring about combustion. Atmospheric stability (stable vs. unstable) weather - are you experiencing major wind shifts and fire-whirls? Both are indicators of unstable weather. E. Topography Observe the following and anticipate their effects on fire behavior. Canyons - wide vs. narrow, box or chute Ridges - saddles and chimneys Slope - steep vs. flat terrain Physical barriers - both natural and artificial, roads, rivers, green belts, fuel breaks, cliffs, or large bodies of water F. Fire Behavior Observe local fire behavior. Base all actions on current and expected behavior of the fire; Standard Fire Order #3. Fire intensity, direction and rate of spread are the basic determinations of how fast it is moving and will tell you approximately how much time you have before it threatens structures. Firewhirls - spread flames and burning embers Structure fuels can affect fire behavior. Fire can spread from house to house whey they are close together, particularly if there is no defensible space. 2.9

34 Spotting - can you anticipate spot fires prior to the fire front reaching you? This could affect your attack plan and the safety of your crew. Plume Dominated Fires - are not as predictable as wind-driven fires. We know that they may spread rapidly, but we do not know where or when major runs may occur. All unsecured portions of the fire perimeter are dangerous. V. STEP 3: RESOURCE SIZE-UP Time is now the critical factor. Is there enough time before the fire reaches the interface to order and receive additional resources? Consider a last-minute fuel clearance effort. Evaluate the terrain is it suitable for dozers, tractor plows or hand crews? Consider structure preparation and work force. Consider firing out around structures. Do you have the necessary resources? Consider air support fixed wing and helicopters. They both have limitations. Fixed wing may be ineffective in strong winds. Helicopters may not carry sufficient loads. Re-evaluate the terrain for access. May be suited only for smaller more versatile equipment. Re-evaluate your water needs and resources. Water tenders may be needed. Consider the need and availability of special equipment. Consider local hazards. Remember - size-up is a continuous process. Fires are not static, neither should your size-up be static. Continue to review all critical factors through the mop-up and extinguishment phases. 2.10

35 VI. EXERCISE 1 - MADRAS FIRE SIZE-UP You are the Engine Boss of a Type 4 Wildland Fire Engine with two crewmembers. You are engine boss qualified and will be the initial attack incident commander of the Madras Fire. Size-up and write down what you see in each of the eight scenes on your way to the fire. Scene 1 - Looking north from Black Creek Road Scene 2 - Looking northeast from Black Creek Road Scene 3 - Looking east from Black Creek Road Scene 4 - Looking east from Black Creek Road 2.11

36 Scene 5 - Looking east from Black Creek Road Scene 6 - Structure access road off Black Creek Road Scene 7 - First structure off Black Creek Road Scene 8 - Second structure off Black Creek Road 2.12

37 VII. STEP 4: SIZE-UP REPORT Many agencies have developed their own size-up report forms. Refer to the size-up report on the inside cover of the Incident Response Pocket Guide. An accurate size-up report is essential to the success of initial attack and extended attack suppression operations, this report should paint a mental picture to the responding units, to the dispatch center, and other interested agency personnel. Radio size-up information should be brief and as accurate as possible. Conditions may change rapidly and you must update your report as conditions change. The six components and information required for an accurate size-up report consists of: A. Who Is In Command and Other Facilities Name of incident Name of IC and location Location of Incident Command Post (ICP) Staging area locations Other facilities B. Fire Location Street address - county - federal road Township and Range/Latitude and Longitude Best location you can provide Local description and clarification of access for responding units 2.13

38 C. What You Have Size of fire in acres, or length and width in feet Type of fuel burning - grass, brush, timber, slash Rate and direction of spread (slow < 1 mph) (moderate 1-2 mph) (rapid 2-3 mph) (extreme > 3 mph) What is in the fire s path Structures involved - exposed or in the area Describe fire behavior - flame length, surface, crowning Torching, spotting, backing, or head fire D. What You Are Doing (special instructions) Attacking the fire - method of attack Protecting structures Other actions being taken - evacuation E. What You Need Are your initial attack resources adequate? Do you need additional resources - type and kind? Where to report Do you need more overhead - span of control? Is it beyond your capability? During the size-up process is a good time to complete an incident complexity analysis to help determine if it is beyond your capability. If you determine an incident management team is need, now is the time to include this in your report. (See Extended Attack Transition Analysis in the Incident Response Pocket Guide, page 15.) 2.14

39 F. Special Instructions and Hazards Power lines Bridges Ingress/egress Hazardous materials Take some time to size-up and write your initial size-up report before you broadcast the report. Collect yourself and give a complete report. Save your report notes for documentation. VIII. EXERCISE 2 - AT SCENE SIZE-UP REPORT Read the example size-up report. Record the key information you would report in each category. Example of an initial size-up report. Dispatch, Engine 1 is at the intersection of Sheridan Lake Road and Copper Mountain Road. The fire is one quarter mile north of Sheridan Lake Road. It has reached the east side of Copper Mountain Road, but has not gone over the road. The ICP will be at the intersection of Sheridan Lake Road and Copper Mountain Road. Engine 1 will be Copper Mountain IC. The fire is about ten acres, burning in grass and starting into the timber. The fire is moving north upslope at a moderate rate of spread. The fire is burning in surface fuels with isolated torching of small pockets of timber. This is a head fire with flame lengths of five to fifteen feet, the torches have flame lengths of sixty feet. Short range spotting is occurring. Copper Mountain Subdivision is one mile north of the fire with continuous fuel between the fire and the subdivision. Initial attack forces will attack the fire. We will anchor to Copper Mountain Road and heel and flank the fire on the east side and hold the fire east of Copper Mountain Road. 2.15

40 This fire will escape initial attack resources. Additional resources are needed. We need five type six engines, one twenty person type two hand crew, strike team leader engine, two division supervisors, and a type three IC. These resources need to report to the intersection of Sheridan Lake Road and Copper Mountain Road. We also need five type one engines, a structural strike team leader, the County Sheriff and Highway Patrol to report to Copper Mountain Subdivision to evacuate and start structure protection operations. Record the key information you would report for each category. A. Who Is In Command and Other Facilities B. Fire Location C. What You Have D. What You Are Doing E. What You Need F. Special Instructions and Hazards 2.16

41 Example Pre-Attack Plan S215-SR Page 1 of 2

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43 Fire Operations in the Wildland/Urban Interface, S-215 Unit 3 - Initial Strategy and Action Plan OBJECTIVES 1. List the three incident priorities. 2. Describe the three operational modes. 3. List five items which would influence ordering resources. 4. List four subject areas to include when briefing resources for assignment. 3.1

44 I. INTRODUCTION The successful management of an interface incident begins with the first responding company officer or initial attack incident commander. If this person correctly interprets the size-up factors and quickly recognizes the interface potential, the result may be just another wildland fire. But if this person fails to recognize the interface potential, you fall behind the resource power curve. II. INCIDENT ACTION PLAN DEVELOPMENT A. Incident Priorities Operations can vary to some degree on every incident, but the following priorities must be considered when developing incident management objectives: 1. Protect life and safety Civilians and firefighters Always first priority 2. Incident stabilization Save property that can be saved Control wildfire 3. Property/Resource conservation Minimize damage to property, improvements, and natural resources Conserve resources to be able to fight fire until the job is done These three priorities should guide you during the development of your incident management objectives, strategies, tactics, and incident action plan. 3.2

45 B. Incident Management Objectives Using the incident priorities, determine your incident management objectives. Incident management objectives should have the following characteristics: 1. Attainable They must be achievable with the resources that the agency and assisting agencies can allocate to the incident, even though it may take several operational periods to accomplish them. 2. Measurable The design and statement of objectives should make it possible to conduct a final accounting as to whether objectives were achieved. 3. Flexible Objectives should be broad enough to allow for consideration of both strategic and tactical alternatives. 4. Examples of incident management objectives: a. Ensure the safety of all firefighters and the public. b. Prevent fire spread into Big Creek drainage. c. Protect structures and improvements threatened by the fire. 3.3

46 C. Strategy Strategy is the general plan or direction selected to accomplish the incident objectives. From the previous examples of objectives an example of strategy might include: 1. Prepare an Evacuation Plan for all residents threatened by fire. 2. Use mechanized equipment to prevent fire spread into Big Creek Drainage. 3. Use structure protection groups to protect structures threatened by fire. On small incidents, the task of developing incident objectives and strategies is the responsibility of the incident commander. This may only take a few minutes. On larger incidents the agency administrator and members of the command and general staff will contribute to this process. D. Tactics Tactics are the short term, site-specific actions taken by incident resources to accomplish the desired strategy. From the previous examples of strategy an example of tactics might include: 1. Evacuate all residents if fire comes within five miles of XYZ Subdivision. 2. Construct a two-blade wide dozer line on Sunup Ridge in Division A. Improve line and burnout with handcrews. 3. Protect XYZ Subdivision on west side of fire with three Type 1 engine strike teams. 3.4

47 E. Operational Modes Refers to how firefighting resources are used to either suppress the fire, protect structures or a combination of both. The operational mode is determined by the types and amounts of resources available and the fire size and behavior. Tactics can be developed using either of the operational modes (offensive, defensive, or a combination of both). 1. Offensive mode Resources are assigned to attack and contain the fire. If ample resources are available, then an offensive mode using direct or indirect attack may accomplish your strategy. 2. Defensive mode Resources are assigned to defend structures where possible, and continue efforts toward fire containment where possible. If resources are limited, then a defensive mode may minimize losses and accomplish some of your strategy (based on priority) until enough resources arrive to control the fire. 3. Combination of offensive and defensive modes. F. Develop an Incident Action Plan The established tactics and the operational mode basically become your incident action plan (IAP). 1. Keep a written record of the IAP. a. Even on simple incidents documentation of your actions is a good practice. ICS-214 Unit Log may be sufficient. 3.5

48 b. The more complex an incident, the greater the need for a written IAP. c. Any interface fire poses the possibility of public/legal actions, therefore documentation is critical. ICS-201 Incident Briefing Size-up form (Incident Response Pocket Guide) Crew briefing checklist Map sketch ICS-213 General Message Form Notebook Tape recorder Photos Palm Pilot 2. Always obtain a map of the incident. A hand drawn map is better than no map. III. RESOURCE NEEDS The ability to estimate the proper amount of resources is something that is extremely difficult and comes only with training and experience. A. Start with the Size-up Process 1. Structures and improvements 2. Fuels 3. Weather 4. Topography 5. Fire behavior 3.6

49 6. Evacuation possibilities a. Will you need to commit firefighting resources to assist in evacuation? b. What will be done with livestock in the area? c. Law enforcement availability 7. Access Ingress and egress. Narrow, steep, and dirt/gravel roads may restrict large equipment (Type 1 Engines). 8. Utility companies may be needed to turn off power, natural gas, etc. 9. Response times a. What is the expected delay before certain resources reach the incident? b. Be sure to calculate the additional fire spread for longer response times. B. What Resources Do I Need (kind, type and number)? 1. Determine the kind of resources needed. a. Helicopters or airtankers, wildland engines or structure engines b. Handcrews or dozers 2. Order resources by ICS type. a. Use national standard b. Specific requests for specialized equipment 3.7

50 3. Configuration of resources. Strike team, task force, or single resource 4. Order enough to meet your needs. a. The resource order can make or break you. Order too little and the fire escapes; order too much and people grumble about nothing to do. b. A guideline to use for ordering engines is: For separated structures mostly surrounded by wildland fuels: 1 engine per structure. For continuous structures, like a subdivision less than 50 feet apart: 1 engine per 2 structures. 3.8

51 STRUCTURE AND WILDLAND ENGINE EXERCISE Group 1: Identify the pros and cons of using structure engines on an interface fire. Group 2: Identify the pros and cons of using wildland engines on an interface fire. 3.9

52 STRUCTURE AND WILDLAND ENGINE EXERCISE Group 3: Identify the pros and cons of using engine strike teams on an interface fire. Group 4: Identify the pros and cons of using engines as single resources on an interface fire. 3.10

53 IV. BRIEFING AND DEPLOYMENT A. Make assignments based upon priority and resource abilities. B. Give all resources a thorough briefing and stage or assign. C. Ensure everyone understands the chain-of-command, who they will report to, and their command responsibilities. D. Provide contingency plans. E. Discuss communication plan. F. Ask questions, be sure everyone understands. G. Provide maps and preplans, if available. H. Stress Safety (LCES) and Risk Management Process V. ESTABLISH UNIFIED COMMAND AS NEEDED A. Definition: A command structure which provides for all agencies or individuals who have jurisdictional responsibility, either geographical or functional, to jointly manage an incident through a common set of objectives. B. Implementation: When responding to an incident where two or more agencies have jurisdiction, the command function may be comprised of an individual from each agency. These representatives will form the command function and will work hand in hand to make decisions by consensus. 3.11

54 VI. MEDFORD FIRE EXERCISE This can be a group or individual student exercise. The objective of this exercise is for the students to size-up, develop strategy, develop an incident action plan, and determine additional resource needs for the Medford Fire. Your agency was dispatched to the Medford Fire on 09/23/XX at 1800 hours. Temperature = 93 degrees Wind = South at 0-5 mph R.H. = 16-21% 100 days since last rain Major fires throughout the west No lightning has occurred in last 7 days Available initial attack resources are: 1 Type 4 Engine 6 Type 6 Engines 1 Type 2 Dozer 1 Lead Plane 1 Type 1 Airtanker 2 Type 2 Airtankers 2 Type 2 Helicopters 3.12

55 Size-up the situation you see in the following slides on your way to the Medford Fire. Slide 1 This is what you see en route to the Medford Fire. Slide #2 Going south on Spring Road you see houses #1 and #2. Slide #3 Continuing south on Spring Road you see houses #3, #4, and #5. Slide #4 You meet the county sheriff on Spring Road. He says the fire is getting close to house #

56 Student Exercise Requirements: A. Develop strategy (strategic goals) for the Medford Fire based on the given fire situation, initial attack resources, and your fire size-up. B. Develop an incident action plan to deploy the initial attack resources. 3.14

57 C. What additional (if any) resources would you order? D. What items would you cover when briefing your resources for assignment? 3.15

58 Houses 5 Fire Starts 3.16

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61 Suggested Accessory Equipment for Structure Engines Assigned to Wildland Fire Operations 1,000 feet SJRL 1½ inch Hose 600 feet SJRL 1 inch Hose One 1½ inch x 50 feet SJRL Hose with Nozzle for Engine Protection One 1½ inch Gated Wye Four 1½ inch Tee Valves Two 1½ inch x 1 inch Reducers Two Forestry Hose Clamps Three 1 inch Combination Nozzles Two 1½ inch Combination Nozzles One McLeod One Pulaski Two Shovels One Drip Torch or ½ case Fusees Four Head Lamps Web Gear for all personnel with Fire Shelters MRE s for 24 hours Two Rolls Flagging One Belt Weather Kit Two Back Pack Pumps One Chain Saw and Chaps S215-SR

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63 Fire Operations In the Wildland/Urban Interface, S-215 Unit 4 - Structure Triage OBJECTIVES: 1. List the three structure triage categories. 2. List five factors upon which to base structure triage decisions and give three examples of each. 3. List four conditions that may indicate a structure cannot be saved. 4.1

64 I. STRUCTURE TRIAGE A. Introduction Structure Triage the sorting and prioritizing of structures requiring protection from wildland fire. Triage may be required of anyone at any time on the incident from the incident commander doing reconnaissance to the engine crew moving into position. The first consideration of structural triage must always be firefighter safety. The goal of triage is to do the most good with what you have, and to not waste limited resources or time. It requires you to quickly categorize threatened structures as: B. Structure Triage Categories Needs little or no attention for now Needs protection, but saveable Cannot be saved There are no fixed answers based just on the structure itself; no one can look at a house and the fuels alone and choose the category that will always apply. 4.2

65 II. THE DECISION PROCESS This section outlines and illustrates a consistent and logical process for reaching a decision based on all the relevant factors. A. Greatest Potential Threat Look at the greatest potential threat, based on the assumption that the fire behavior will be the worst possible under the prevailing conditions. While you may not base your actions on such a possible threat, at least have an alternative plan should the worst develop. Consider: 1. Fuels (in your estimation of their driest condition), firebrands, worst weather that might occur, and terrain. 2. Greatest vulnerability of the structure. B. Probable Threat Look at the probable threat, based on the fire behavior that is most likely to occur under the conditions. It is this situation that should guide your decision on the action to take. Consider: 1. The actual fire intensity and firebrand problem you expect. 2. Those aspects of the structure that remain vulnerable under the expected fire behavior. C. When will the fire arrive and how long will the threat to the interface last? This will determine your preparation and commitment time. When other resources arrive will determine their usefulness. Consider: 1. Rate of spread. 2. Orientation of the fire as it moves into the structures. 3. Arrival times of other resources. 4.3

66 D. What can be done with the resources that are available? This has to be your best judgement of what you can accomplish in the face of the expected threat. You must reach your decision on where to put your effort. One approach is to imagine the effect of putting all required resources on the most threatened structure. Based on that outcome, look at the effect of shifting resources to other, less threatened structures. In the final analysis you want to save the most structures. If the most threatened structure cannot be saved, forget it. Then access the next most severely threatened structure. If it cannot be saved either, then move to the next most threatened, etc. If a threatened structure can be saved, you must still decide if that is the best thing to do. Even though you save one, the effort might cause you to lose others that could have been saved. Ask what will happen if resources are applied to less threatened structures instead. If you can then save only a different structure, but no more than one, go for the tough ones. If, on the other hand, you can then save two or more structures, drop the more threatened ones. Continue the what if process until you feel you are at a point where you can save the most structures with the help you have. III. FIVE FACTORS THAT AFFECT YOUR TRIAGE DECISION ARE: Structure itself Surrounding fuels (defensible space) Fire behavior Available resources Firefighter safety 4.4

67 A. Structure Are the structure and exposure susceptible? Construction features and condition. 1. Roof a. Combustible wood shakes, tar paper, etc. b. Not combustible tile, metal or fiberglass, etc. c. Pitch debris on roof or in gutter. 2. Siding a. Combustible wood. b. Not combustible metal, brick, etc. 3. Heat traps a. Open gable b. Vents without screens or non-fire resistant screens c. Overhanging decks 4. Windows 5. Size of building 6. Shape of building 7. Position on slope 4.5

68 B. Fuels (including surrounding and fuels that could produce spotfires) 1. Surrounding fuels 2. Size and arrangement 3. Age 4. Proximity 5. Loading 6. Types a. Resistant or flammable b. Landscape/ornamental c. Grass, brush, timber, exotic (palmetto, etc.) d. Wood piles 7. Landscaping Railroad ties, cedar (wood) fences 8. Defensible space, access 9. Yard accumulation 10. Flame or heat duration 11. Explosive LPG tanks, diesel or gas storage tanks 12. Other hazardous materials, vehicles, etc. 4.6

69 C. Fire behavior how the fuels will burn. 1. Rate of spread and direction 2. Topographic influence 3. Weather influence 4. Flame length 5. Spotting/firebrands 6. Timing 7. Natural or other barriers D. Resources what is available and when. 1. On site resources (water, handtools, ladders, equipment) 2. Kind and type of equipment available 3. Number 4. Where they are (location) 5. When available-response time 6. Capabilities and limitations a. Mobility b. Water/foam/retardant E. Firefighter Safety 1. Ingress/egress routes a. Adjacent fuels b. One way-two way 4.7

70 c. Canopy d. Slope and steepness of road e. Loops 2. Power lines 3. Smoke/visibility 4. Hazardous materials 5. LPG and fuel storage tanks 6. Many others (Remote wooden bridges, fire crossing road, etc.) IV. CONSIDER ALL THE FACTORS Triage is a logical process, not an answer or simple formula. It requires you to make basic predictions of fire behavior. It requires you to estimate the capabilities and availability of resources. You must base your decisions on probabilities, play the odds. Several triage checklists have been developed for use by homeowners and firefighters. These checklists can be used for educating the homeowner in the procedure of making his/her home fire survivable. The same form can be used in emergency situations to analyze defensible space and help the firefighter determine actions that may be necessary to save the structure. Currently, there are trends in fire-wise communities to develop placarding type systems designating houses that are fire safe. See internet website at 4.8

71 EXERCISE: The following examples illustrates how you might reach different decisions in light of differing fire behavior and resource situations. Two houses are adjacent, 50 feet apart. House #1 has wooden walls, a wood-shake roof, and is surrounded on three sides by brush. House #2 has better clearance, grass around the house, and a composition shingle roof. Case 1: The fire is burning only the leaf litter, moving progressively past the two houses. You have a full 500- gallon tank of water and are the only engine available. What would you do? Case 2: The fire is burning the brush, hitting broadside and threatening both houses at the same time. You have 250 gallons of water left and are the only engine available. House #1 will receive direct flame impingement; house #2 will receive only firebrands. What would you do? Case 3: As in Case 2, the fire is burning the brush and threatening both houses at the same time. This time you have a full tank of water, 500 gallons. You can protect house #1 as the fire hits it and in the process will significantly diminish the intensity at the head of the fire. A second engine will be there within 5 minutes. What would you do? 4.9

72 V. DECISION MAKING EXERCISE Exercise Scenario: You are sent into an area with four houses. Burning conditions are so severe that you can expect the standing live fuels to burn readily. You have a full tank of water (500 gallons), but no other resources will be available until after the fire is well past. The most threatened house (#1) is located in heavy fuels. It would require all your water to save, and the other houses would be involved by the time you could be free again. The second worst house (#2) is located in moderately heavy fuels; it would require half your water and commitment of 10 to 20 minutes to save it. The last two houses (#3 and #4) are threatened only by firebrands on the roof. What would you do? 4.10

73 VI. WHEN STRUCTURES CANNOT BE SAVED No simple rule will tell you when to try, or what time to abandon, a structure defense effort. Listed below are some factors or conditions worth noting. If any of these apply, then the attempt to save that structure deserves careful consideration before continuing. A. The fire is making significant runs (not just isolated flare-ups) in the standing live fuels; for example, the brush or tree crowns and the structure is within 1 or 2 flame lengths of those fuels. B. Spot fires are igniting around the structure or on the roof and beginning to grow faster than you can put them out. C. Your water supply and stream flow will not allow you to continue firefighting until the threat subsides. D. You cannot safely remain at the structure and your escape route could become unusable (blocked by fire, falling or rolling obstacles, etc.). E. The roof is more than 1/4 involved, in windy conditions, and other structures are threatened or involved. F. Interior rooms are involved and windows broken, in windy conditions, and other structures are threatened or involved. VII. SUMMARY If things change, or if you are losing the battle, rethink your plan, but do not continually question or regret your decisions. Time wasted in indecisions is very costly. This is not a situation that allows lengthy deliberations. The situation does not allow more than a best judgement and a good effort. Make decisive judgements and make them without undue delay. Then go to work. 4.11

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77 Structural Triage Assessment Incident Name Jurisdiction TOPOGRAPHY (SLOPE %) 0 TO 20% = 1 20 TO 40% = 3 >40% = 5 Light =1 FUEL TYPE Moderate = 3 (Include yard accumulation) Heavy = 5 FUEL CLEARANCE AERIAL FUEL (Crown Closures) ROOF SIDING OTHER Structures ACCESS UTILITIES FIRE PROTECTION FUEL STORAGE (Propane, gas, diesel) OTHER HAZARDS >100 = 1 30 TO 100 = 3 <30 feet = 5 <30% = % = 3 >70%= 5 Non-combustible =1 Non/w combust debris = 3 Combustible = 5 Non-combustible = 1 Non/w combustible deck = 3 Combustible = 5 Discretion=0,1,3,5,10 2 ways in/out road = 1 1 good road in = 3 1 poor road in = 5 Road width >20 = 1 Road width < 20 = 5 Dead end roads: With turn-a rounds = 1 Without turn-a rounds = 5 Bridge/w load limits <12 Tons = 5 Underground = 1 Aboveground = 5 Water on site = 1 No water on site = 5 Defensible = 1 Needs work to defend = 3,5,10 Discretion = 0,1,3,5,10 Structure Location GPS Legal Description Prepared by Date Time Owners Name Address Phone Occupied yes/no Locked yes/no Pets/livestock Photo Site Map Total Score MATRIX RATING = Easy; = OK with work; >50 = Hard S215-SR

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79 Fire Operations In The Wildland/Urban Interface, S-215 Unit 5 - Structure Protection Tactics Lesson A - Initial Operations and Site Preparation OBJECTIVES: 1. Identify lessons learned in structure protection. 2. List initial operations to be accomplished upon arrival at an incident or assigned area and describe their importance to firefighting actions. 3. Describe how to prepare structures and the surrounding area to minimize damage. 5A.1

80 I. INTRODUCTION Structure protection can involve the use of both defensive and offensive tactics. A. Actions taken prior to the arrival of the fire: site and structure preparation. B. Actions taken as the fire front arrives: structure defense. C. Actions taken after the fire front passes: secure structure and mop-up activities. II. STRUCTURE PROTECTION: LESSONS LEARNED A. Tactics employed in structure protection are the same for both wildland and structural firefighting agencies regardless of the type of resources utilized. B. Most interface fires occur under high wind conditions, creating rapidly moving fires, extreme fire behavior, long range spotting and multiple fire fronts. C. The scattered location of structures in the interface can limit tactics commonly used in wildland firefighting, such as direct attack or burnouts. D. Spot fires create multiple fire fronts and firefighters protecting structures are often surrounded by flames, showered by burning embers and are subjected to dense smoke during the battle to save someone s home. E. Escape routes and safety zones are easily compromised in structure defense by remaining at the structure beyond what we would consider safe in wildland fire operations. 5A.2

81 F. Mobility is one of the most important tactics employed in structure defense. Engines must be able to quickly move from house to house in the protection effort. Structure engines are larger and less mobile than wildland engines. Consider actions in the deployment of firefighting equipment that will allow for rapid response to the changing fire environment, as well as maintaining the ability to escape to a safety zone. G. Wise water use is critical to structural defense. Water may be most effectively used in foam solutions to wet down structural exposures prior to the arrival of the fire front. H. Coordination, organization and communications may not be adequate during initial operations. I. Resources required may not be available and those on scene may not be able to control the spreading fire. Resources defending structures must be mobile, resourceful, and self-reliant. J. The ability to communicate among all agencies responding to interface fires is an absolute must. Regular communication among all resources is essential. K. Situational awareness is required due to the numerous factors that can quickly compromise the safety of everyone involved. III. INITIAL OPERATIONS Initial firefighting resources on scene often encounter panicked homeowners and traffic congestion from vehicles moving in and out of the fire scene, often in a very unsafe manner. Maintain situational awareness, develop needed intelligence, organize available resources and order additional support. 5A.3

82 You must rapidly develop a mental action plan, set priorities and delegate responsibilities. Maintain the big picture at all times, scout your area, do structural triage if time permits. A. Initial Action Priorities 1. Public and firefighter safety: Identify your escape routes and safety zones Make them known to firefighters and the public. Initiate structural triage assessments. Request assistance from law enforcement agencies and consider the need to evacuate citizens and provide traffic control. Post lookouts or send out observers to provide updated information on the proximity of the fire front if not obvious. 2. Command, control, and accountability Maintain contact with all units on scene and your local dispatch office, establish separate command and tactical radio frequencies if needed to organize communications. Provide an initial size up with all required elements. This is critical for ensuring that dispatch offices understand the fire situation, provide incoming units with information on routes of travel, initial assignments and ordering additional resources. Establish a staging area for incoming units that is large, easy to access and located in an area that will not be compromised by the spreading fire. Designate a staging area manager to coordinate incoming resources and provide information on resource availability. 5A.4

83 Do not locate the incident command post at the staging area to minimize distractions to the incident management team. B. Homeowner Contacts Some residents are ready to flee at the first sight of smoke. Others will want stay with their homes. You will need to provide advice and direction. 1. Shelter in place a. Residents that remain can be helpful. They may know the locations of other structures, water sources, access routes, hazards, etc. They can help prepare their home before the fire hits. b. Homeowners who remain should be advised on basic safety considerations. Be alert to equipment. Do not go out into unburned fuel. Know the escape routes and safe zones. If trapped by the fire, remain in the structure until it is safe to exit. c. The checklist Caught in a Wildfire is a handout that may be given to homeowners. The checklist includes actions to be done inside and outside the house, proper clothing to wear, and other guidelines for family safety. d. Shelter in place may put citizens at risk and may interfere with operations. Consider the additional stress remaining homeowners put on firefighters to stay longer than safety permits. 2. Evacuation Usually the responsibility of law enforcement agencies. States may have different laws. 5A.5

84 Example: Wyoming State Statute states in part; In the event of a hazard of immediate life threatening severity, the state fire marshal or the chief of a fire department or district may order evacuation of a building or area and may implement emergency measures to protect life and property and to remove the hazard. a. Evacuation may be required to clear the area for firefighting operations and to minimize risk to citizens. We can ask people to evacuate, but only law enforcement officers have the authority to make them leave. b. Advise evacuees to take a minimum of belongings with them. Suggest they close-up, but not lock their residences. Direct them to the appropriate route, to watch for incoming equipment, and to any location where they are to gather. C. Routing Traffic and Establishing Access 1. Request assistance from local law enforcement for traffic control. If law enforcement is not on scene, delegate traffic control to someone. Use flares, emergency lights and other visible safety warning devices at all times. Coordinate traffic control with law enforcement when they arrive on scene. 2. You may encounter narrow access roads already filled with, and even blocked by local traffic. 3. Develop a traffic plan and communicate the information to all units and dispatch. Identify routes into and out of the area with signs or flagging. 4. Clear existing traffic to make way for fire equipment. Alternatively, direct civilian traffic to the roadside until fire equipment has passed, and tell them when they can move out. 5A.6

85 5. Leave a clear path for other incoming units. Note weight limits or bottlenecks that may limit some equipment. IV. STRUCTURE AND SITE PREPARATION If there is any time available before the fire reaches a structure, much can be done to improve the chances of saving the structure. Site preparation depends upon the time and assistance you have prior to the fire s approach. Initial attack on interface fires offers little time for preparation. Often all that can be done is to get an engine to the structure and position hose lays. Site preparation should be based on the fuels, expected fire behavior and the information you gather conducting structural triage. Use engine crews, hand crews, heavy equipment and other resources available. A. The Structure Look at the structure as fuel. Wood roofs and siding are more vulnerable to ignition than non-combustible types. Virtually any opening into the structure is an entry point for firebrands. Pay particular attention to the likely ignition points. 1. Shake roofs 2. Cedar lap siding 3. Open vents 4. Open, broken, and screenless windows 5. Open doorways or breezeways 6. Open crawl spaces 5A.7

86 7. On and under decks 8. Other flammable materials B. On Site Resources Look for things that you can use to help prepare the structure and fight the fire. With a little resourcefulness, lots of things around a home can be put to good use. Such things include: 1. Materials for covering openings (plywood, boards, sheet metal, etc.) 2. Hammers, saws, nails, wire, etc. (for securing coverings) 3. Ladders (put on safe side of house) 4. Rakes, brooms, blowers, etc., for removing leaves, needles, or grass 5. Chain saws, trimming saws, axes, shovels C. Locate Water Sources Locate water sources that could be used; even small ones. 1. Hydrant types: wet barrel, dry barrel, private industrial or agricultural hydrants which require activation before use. 2. Pools 3. Cisterns and tanks 3. Irrigation systems 4. Garden hose outlets (good for filling engine tank) 5A.8

87 D. Adjacent Resources 1. Contact fire units adjacent to your area of protection. 2. Determine mutual protection boundaries. Adjust assignments if necessary to even the workload. 3. Write down radio call ID s and frequencies. 4. Learn the routes to use in moving to assist each other. E. Clearance Around Structures 1. Research indicates: a. Large flames and crown fires generally don t ignite homes. b. Intense fires burning farther than 100 feet from a structure don t transfer enough radiant heat to ignite the structure. c. More often small ignitions and spotting start structures on fire. (1) Firebrands landing on combustible material of or near the home start ignitions. (2) Continuous surface fuels allow surface fires to spread to and ignite the structure. 2. Home ignition zone The home ignition zone determines the vulnerability of a home and surrounding area to wildfire. The home ignition zone includes the home and extends a distance of feet around the outside perimeter of the home. 5A.9

88 F. Removing and Trimming Fuels State laws vary on who may or may not have the authority to remove fuels around private structures. Get permission from the landowner or appropriate local authority. Suppression resources have to communicate, coordinate, and cooperate with the local jurisdictional entities in the interface. 1. Combustible material and vegetation should be cleared completely around the structure. Use discretion and consider the homeowner s efforts and expense in landscaping. Landscape trees and shrubbery adjacent to the structure can often be adequately wet down with foam to protect the home. 2. Leave isolated or widely scattered plants, and most ornamental shrubs and trees. Trimming lower branches and eliminating ladder fuels will effectively isolate the aerial fuel from the fire. 3. Pile cleared vegetation where it will not burn, or will not cause a problem if it does. Simply felling trees or lopping off branches and leaving them lay may create a more hazardous fuel bed than you had before. G. Fireline Construction Fireline is a strip of mineral soil cleared of vegetation intended to stop the spread of the fire. 1. Construct fireline in fuels and terrain where you can control the main fire or your firing operation. Light fuels, grass, scattered shrubs and forest litter are the best location for fireline construction because of minimizing the amount of work required and decreasing the exposure of firefighters holding the line. Try to use openings in tight forest canopies. 5A.10

89 2. Fireline should be located as close as possible to the structure. If flammable vegetation that could carry fire to the structure remains inside the control line, firebrands could still ignite a fire that reaches the structure. 3. Take advantage of existing breaks in the fuel. a. Roads and driveways. b. Lawns and landscaped areas. c. Grazed and trampled grass. d. Power line rights-of-way. e. Trails or paths. H. Intermediate Fuels Intermediate fuels are any combustibles located near the structure. They can sometimes convey fire directly to the structure, produce firebrands, or radiant heat that will threaten the structure. Common examples of intermediate fuels: 1. Woodpiles (lumber, posts or firewood) 2. Wood fences 3. Decks and awnings 4. Yard furniture 5. Wood swing sets and play houses 5A.11

90 I. Yard Accumulation As well as the obvious combustibles that can directly threaten the structure, there are common things scattered round the yard that create control problems or have a value worth protecting. Yard accumulation can interfere with the placement and movement of hose lines. It can also greatly complicate and delay firing operations. 1. Immobile vehicles 2. Boats and small trailers 3. Power tools 4. Stored material (pipes, poles, etc.) J. Flammable and Explosive Hazards Many things can burn violently or explode. They deserve special attention as soon as possible. Examples include: 1. Elevated gasoline or diesel tanks Clear fuel around such hazards to a distance adequate to protect them from excessive radiant heat. The required clearance will depend upon fire intensity and your ability to cool or shield them. 2. LP gas tanks 3. Vehicle components (batteries, shocks, tanks, mounted tires, drivelines, etc.) 4. Pressure vessels and aerosol cans (even if the contents are not flammable) 5A.12

91 5. Outbuilding storing fertilizers, pool chemicals, motor vehicle fluids (diesel fuel, brake fluid, oil, etc.) 6. Other hazardous materials V. STRUCTURE PREPARATIONS A. Exterior Preparation 1. The roof is the most readily and frequently ignited part of a structure exposed to wildland fire. 2. Clear needles and leaves off of the roof and out of the rain gutters if it can be done safely. 3. Ladders can be used to access roof areas that can not be wet down with hose from the ground level. Avoid contacting electrical lines with water or when moving a ladder. Wet roofs and high winds create the potential for falling off the roof. Avoid climbing on roofs if possible. 4. Cover openings and potential openings. Any entry of fire or firebrands into the structure greatly increases control problems and the likelihood the structure will be damaged or destroyed. Concentrate your efforts to openings on the side of the structure that is exposed to the fire. Leave window screens attached and close any exterior window coverings. 5A.13

92 B. Interior Preparation 1. Close windows. 2. Close non-flammable window coverings such as blinds, shades and drapes. 3. Close interior doors to limit fire spread should the interior become involved. 4. Turn off fans and swamp coolers that may allow embers into the structure. 5. Turn off gas (LPG or natural) at the source. 6. Leave electricity on to run pumps, provide lighting, etc. 7. Leave on a porch light and a central interior light to provide visibility in dark, smoky conditions. Patrolling engines will more easily notice the house and firefighters entering it will have some light. 8. Make sure essential doors can be opened. Close but don t lock all doors. 9. Leave a note for the homeowner describing in what condition you have left the structure (utilities, pets, etc.). C. Private Vehicles Vehicles that will remain on-site can be taken care of to minimize damage to them and to the degree to which they will be in the way. 1. Park them in a sheltered location, away from heat and firebrands. 2. Make sure they will not interfere with the movement of fire equipment. 5A.14

93 3. Do not park them over flammable vegetation. If flammables are in the area spray a foam blanket around and underneath the vehicles. 4. Park the vehicle headed out, if possible, with the keys in the ignition. 5. Close the doors and windows, but do not lock. D. Pets and Livestock Most often, animals that are free to move around will manage to avoid being burned. However, if they are fenced or chained they may need to be freed. Troublesome or frightened pets might need to be placed in the garage, residence, or other enclosure. If a large problem with pets or livestock is encountered, call for assistance from the local animal control agency. VI. PRE-TREATMENT OF STRUCTURES A. Sprinkler Systems Sprinklers may be used to wet down the structure and/or the vegetation around a structure. B. Class A Foam 1. Proven technique in protecting structures. 2. Can be quickly applied to the structure using engines or portable tanks. 3. Easy to use by batch mixing in tank without foam proportioners. 4. Minimizes removal of ornamental landscaping and fireline construction. Can be used to wet down landscape vegetation around structure. 5A.15

94 5. Maximizes firefighter safety. Crews move to safety zones until fire front passes, then return to conduct any needed mop-up. C. Fire Gel Fire Gel is produced by commercial vendors under various trade names. Fire Gel is a gel concentrate that when added to water, transforms water into a fire preventing and heat absorbing gel. It will adhere to any kind of surface, even vertical window panes. Fire Gel is applied by special nozzles and systems. D. Structure Wrap Structure wrap is available from commercial vendors under various trade names. It comes in rolls (approximately 3 feet wide by 300 feet long) and is made from similar material as the fire shelter. It can be reused if care is taken when removing it from the original application. New materials and chemicals are currently being developed that have proven effectiveness in protecting structures from fires while minimizing the exposure of firefighters. Stay current with rapidly developing technology. 5A.16

95 CAUGHT IN A WILDFIRE If your home is threatened by a wildfire, you may be contacted by a fire or law enforcement official and advised to evacuate. However, if you are not contacted in time, or if you decide to stay with your home, we offer the following suggestions: If you are able, evacuate your pets and all family members who are not essential to protecting the home, but do not jeopardize your life. Be properly dressed to survive the fire. Cotton and wool fabrics are preferable to synthetics. Wear long pants and boots, and carry with you for protection a long sleeved shirt or jacket, gloves, a dry handkerchief to shield your face, and goggles. Wear a hard hat. OUTSIDE YOUR HOUSE Remove combustible items from around the house. This includes lawn and poolside furniture, umbrellas, and tarp coverings. If they catch fire, the added heat could ignite your home. If possible, close outside attic, eve, and basement vents. This will eliminate the possibility of sparks blowing into hidden areas within the house. Close window shutters. Locate garden hoses so they will reach any place on the house. Use the spray-gun type nozzle, adjusted to spray. Turn the hose faucet on so that it is ready to go when it is needed. Place large plastic trash cans or buckets around the perimeter of the house and fill them with water. Soak burlap sacks, small rugs, and large rags. They can be helpful in beating out burning embers or small fires. 5A.17 5A-01-S215-SR Page 1 of 3

96 Place a ladder against the roof of the house opposite the side of the approaching fire. If you have a combustible roof, set a lawn sprinkler on it. This will be more effective than a hose. However, do not turn water on ahead of time, as wood shingles will dry quickly and you will have wasted water. If you have a portable gasoline-powered pump to take water from a swimming pool or tank, make sure it is operating and is in place. INSIDE YOUR HOUSE Close all windows and doors to prevent sparks from blowing inside, but do not lock them. If firefighters arrive to help save your home, they may need instant access. Close all doors inside the house to block the circulation of air and movement of fire from room to room. Open the damper on your fireplace to help stabilize outside/inside pressure, but close the fireplace screen so sparks will not ignite the room. Turn on a light in each room of the house, on the porch, in the garden and in the yard. This will make the house more visible in heavy smoke at night. Fill bathtubs, sinks and other water containers with water. Toilet tanks and water heaters are important water reservoirs. Shut off gas at the meter. If you have time, take down flammable drapes and curtains. If you don t have time to take them down, leave them open. Close all Venetian blinds or fire resistant window coverings to reduce the amount of heat radiating into your home. Move overstuffed furniture away from windows and sliding glass doors and into the center of the room. 5A.18 5A-01-S215-SR Page 2 of 3

97 Park your car in the garage, heading out; close car windows; leave keys in the ignition. Close garage door but leave it unlocked. Disconnect the automatic garage door opener. Place valuable documents and mementos inside the car in the garage for quick departure, if necessary. Any pets still with you should also be put in the car. WHEN THE FIRE IS AT YOUR HOUSE Enter your home with your family, closing but not locking the doors. Keep the entire family together and remain calm. Stay inside the house as the fire passes. It takes time for a fire to burn from the outside into the interior of the house. Leave the house if it becomes apparent that the fire is burning inside the house. Consider using the house to block you from outside radiant heat. AFTER THE FIRE PASSES Check the roof immediately. Extinguish any sparks or embers using a garden hose, barrels of water and small rugs. Then, check inside the attic for hidden sparks. Still keep the windows and doors closed in the house. Continue checking for at least six to ten hours after the fire is thought to be out. 5A.19 5A-01-S215-SR Page 3 of 3

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101 Fire Operations In The Wildland/Urban Interface, S-215 Unit 5 - Structure Protection Tactics Lesson B - Engine Operations, Water Use and Class A Foam OBJECTIVES: 1. Describe four considerations in engine access and positioning in structure defense. 2. List the three tactics employed in confronting a fire at a structure. 3. List the three types of foam and describe ways they can be used on interface fires. 4. Describe two reasons for maintaining mobility in structure defense. 5B.1

102 I. INTRODUCTION Engine crews and apparatus are the primary resource used in structural protection. This unit will discuss proven techniques in successful interface engine tactics which maximize efficiency, mobility and firefighter safety. II. ENGINE ACCESS AND POSITIONING Often, structures threatened by wildland fire may be at the end of long, narrow driveways, off dirt roads and flanked by flammable vegetation. A. Negotiating The Access 1. On the way, pay attention to landmarks and hazards. Note potential safety zones. Flag escape routes and safety zones. Remember that you may have to leave in a hurry and under very smoky conditions. 2. Scout access roads before committing large apparatus. Scouting may be done by smaller engines, strike team leaders, or on foot if necessary. 3. Back the engine into position from the last known turn around. B. Positioning The Engine The engine should be positioned to make it safe and convenient to work from. 1. Do not block travel routes for other equipment or evacuating vehicles. Park off the road. 2. Do not park over flammable vegetation. Scrape or burn away the fuel from your parking area if needed. 3. Park on the side of the structure that will minimize exposure of the engine to heat and blowing firebrands. 5B.2

103 4. Be near enough, but not right next to, the structure to limit the length of hose lines. Avoid structure collapse zone (1½ times the height of the structure). 5. Avoid parking next to or under such hazards as: a. Power lines b. Flammable trees or snags c. LP gas tanks; pressure valves d. Buildings that might burn 6. Leave the doors, windows, and compartments closed and the keys in the ignition. You don t want to find your vehicle on fire. 7. A lookout, usually the pump operator, should always remain with the engine. III. WORKING HOSE LINES A. 1½" hose lines are recommended for use in structural protection. B. 1½" Single Jacket Forestry Hose provide the mobility needed to protect all sides of the structure. C. In fine fuels with low intensity fires, 3/4" or 1" hose lines can provide a mobile and reliable choice. One disadvantage of hardline is it cannot be rapidly cut off and abandoned if escape becomes necessary. D. Deploy two lines, one around each side of the structure or around a pair of adjacent structures. They must be long enough to meet behind the structures. However, keep in mind the pump and water capacity of your engine. Type 6 and 7 engines may not have the pump capacity or water supply for extensive hose lengths. 5B.3

104 A 100 foot by 1½ inch single jacket hose line may be preconnected and secured to the rear of an engine by means of webbing or a strap; in order to rapidly deploy and reload structure protection lines. Access and safety are enhanced if personnel are not required to climb on top of an engine. (See student reference Structure Protection Hoseline Evolution 5B-01-S215-SR.) E. Ensure lines have a shut-off valve at the engine. This will allow the lines to be rapidly disconnected should escape become necessary. F. Deploy the lines around behind the engine, not in front to prevent the hoses from wrapping around a wheel in a rapid egress situation. G. Supplementary lines can be used for back up, interior attack or spot fires on the back side of the structure. Any line positioned for immediate use should be charged and checked. H. Engine protection line. Partially charge and coil a 50 ft. section of 1½ inch hose near the vicinity of the engine control panel where it can be easily reached and re-charged in the event the fire overruns your engine s position. Make sure it will not fall off if the engine is moving. I. Working lines can and should be left in place until the structure is out of danger. If an engine has to leave to refill, protect adjacent structures or retreat to a safety zone, working lines left in place can immediately be put back in service when an engine returns to the scene. J. Working lines should be left so that they are easily noticed and within reach of the outlets on an incoming engine. Possibly mark them with flagging. Do not leave the couplings where they might be run over. You can drape the ends of the lines over a fence, mailbox, etc. K. Working lines can be laid before an engine actually takes up a position. For example, hand crews could set up hose lays prior to the arrival of the fire front, saving critical time for the engine units when they arrive. If possible, cover the hose lines with dirt for protection from heat. 5B.4

105 IV. NOZZLES A combination nozzle is the most versatile. It provides for conservation of limited water supplies when using the spray tip for wetting down exposures, or the knock down power and reach of a straight stream. A. Straight stream tips on working lines or roof lines can provide a better water stream in high wind conditions. B. Air aspirating foam nozzles or combination foam nozzles, when used with properly mixed foam, provide good pretreatment for structure protection. V. CONFRONTING THE FIRE AT THE STRUCTURE A. Introduction Strategies and tactics for protecting a structure when the fire front arrives depend upon the type of fuels surrounding the structure and the equipment available. Structures surrounded by fine fuels can effectively be protected by stopping the fire spread with water or firelines. Using water to prevent fire spread in running crown fires with brush or timber fuel types is ineffective in relation to fire intensity and exposes firefighters to undue risk. Water is most effectively used in heavy fuel types with foam application prior to the fire s arrival, or putting out spot fires on the structure after the fire front passes. 5B.5

106 B. Spotting Zone Most interface fires will put you in the spotting zone. Airborne firebrands are the biggest problem because they can ignite spot fires and the threat may exist for several hours. Firebrands may ignite new fires as far as a mile or more ahead of the main fire. The main fire may move through later (putting you in a different situation), or it may never get there. Remain mobile enough to quickly reach any point within your area of responsibility. It may not be necessary to deploy lines except to actually put out a fire. Constantly check for new ignitions on receptive fuel beds including roofs and woodpiles. Patrol as necessary, post lookouts with communication, and make sure there are no gaps in surveillance between adjacent areas. If a spot fire occurs, attack it quickly. Make sure it is completely out, or has a control line capable of preventing its spread. Remain alert for other spot fires. C. Structure Protection Tactics 1. Full containment around the structure Full containment: stopping fire before it reaches the structure. Light fuels and low intensity fire provide opportunities to prevent the fire from reaching the structure. Extinguish with water. Construct handline or use natural fuel breaks. 5B.6

107 If you cannot wait for the main fire, or if the fire will be too intense for direct control, you can fire out from a control line. Firing operations and techniques will be discussed later. 2. Partial containment around the structure If there is not enough time or the fire intensity will not allow you to establish complete containment, you can still attempt to reduce the fire s intensity as it moves towards the structure if you have adequate water supply. If not save the water for the structure. Use your working lines to knock down the segment of the fire front that is moving directly toward the structure. After the main fire passes, check the structure for possible ignitions, such as on the roof, under eaves, rain gutters, and wood decking. 3. No containment possible The wildland fire will burn over and past the structure unchecked. Suppression efforts are focused on the structure. Ensure adequate safety zones are accessible, available and known to all personnel. If you have an adequate water supply, direct all hose lines onto the structure and allow the wildland fire to burn past. If the fire intensity threatens your safety, then retreat to a safety zone and re-enter the area when the fire has passed. Or, coat structure in Class A foam and leave until the fire front has passed. D. Fighting Roof Fires Combustible roofs are frequently ignited by wildland fires. Firebrands rain down, and radiant heat or flame contact can add to the problem. 5B.7

108 When the fire on the roof is small, It can be extinguished from the outside. Make sure they are out; remove the involved shingles to make certain. AGENCY POLICY CONCERNING FIGHTING EXTERIOR ROOF FIRES MUST BE FOLLOWED. When fire has spread across the roof, the structure is seriously threatened, especially in high winds. It must then be assumed that the fire has spread into and through the roof. ONLY AGENCY PERSONNEL TRAINED AND EQUIPPED FOR STRUCTURE FIREFIGHTING ARE PERMITTED TO MAKE AN INTERIOR ATTACK! Knowing if a roof is too far gone is a judgement call, and will depend on your resources, other priorities, etc. Generally, roofs that are more than 1/4 involved are too far gone and firefighting resources can be better used to save other structures. VI. WATER AND FOAM USE Wise water use is critical to the success of structure defense efforts! Water is usually in short supply in these situations. Rural water systems are commonly of low capacity or nonexistent. Even good supplies were not designed to handle dozens of structure fires simultaneously, not to mention the wildland fire. All too often power failures shut down system pumps anyway. A. Water Supply Conserve water by using only enough to accomplish the task at hand. Save a 100-gallon reserve in your engine. That water is for your engine and crew if you are threatened or need to escape. 5B.8

109 Take advantage of any opportunity to add water to your tank, if it does not take you out of position at a bad time and does not require an undue amount of time. For example, run a garden hose in your tank while you are parked, or stop at a hydrant along your way. Know the characteristics of the water supply you are relying on, whether it be hydrant, residential supply system, water tenders, engines drafting from open sources, etc. Following are points to consider: 1. System capacity: How much total water is available? When can it be expected to run out? 2. Flow rate: How many gallons per minute can you count on? Will that be continuously available, as from pipes or supply engines, or will it be intermittent, as from water tenders? 3. Pressure: What will be the pressure at the source you use? Is it adequate to run hose lines directly? 4. Reliability: Is the system dependent upon pumps or is it gravity flow? Can water use elsewhere drop your pressure? B. Water Application Effective application is the key to conserving available water. As the wildland fire approaches, heat begins to build up, and firebrands may accompany it. When the fire involves the wildland fuels around the structure, the heat impinging on you and the structure is at its maximum. After the wildland fuels burn out, the heat wave will subside. Heavy fuel present may continue to generate heat. The timing of water application with respect to the passage of the heat wave is important. While you must make your own decision on how to apply water, based on your situation and your experience, the following may be helpful. 5B.9

110 If you can simply extinguish the fire, go ahead and do it. If you cannot put the fire out quickly and directly, then consider how to make the best use of your water. 1. Wetting down with water (foam will be discussed later) Wetting down is the application of water to fuel and structures before the fire arrives. It is generally done to the roof. Wetting down is usually a waste of time and water. In the face of winds, low humidity, and fire, the wetted surfaces will soon dry out and be susceptible to ignition. Water is more effective if saved to put out ignitions actually occurring on the structure. 2. Reducing the heat buildup Water can be used to reduce or limit the potential buildup of heat. It can also be effective in increasing the fine fuel moistures in grass or pine needles. Knock down the fire in surface fuels where it could spread upward into aerial fuels (such as tree crowns). Under severe burning conditions, fire can still move through the crowns from heat built up elsewhere. Prevent it from getting into heavy, troublesome fuels such as woodpiles or brush patches. Don t waste water on crown fires, heavy fuels or fully involved structures. The heat output in these situations far outweighs the ability of water to cool it down. Water applied directly to very hot (as evidenced by scorching paint and smoke) structure surfaces can help prevent ignition. Water applied directly is more effective than a water curtain. Try not to get water on a hot window; glass will break. 5B.10

111 3. The duration of the heat wave The duration of the intense heat produced by burning wildland fuels depends upon the fuels involved and on the overall burning conditions. In light fuels such as grass, the flame front will pass a given point in a minute or so. It will generally move past the structure in no more than a few minutes. In brush, such as chaparral, burnout times are longer and spread rates are often lower than for grass under similar conditions. The fire may take minutes to move past the structure. Crown fires in timber can generate intense heat that may last a considerable time at any given location. Maintain escape route and safety zone! 4. Peak heat wave tactics During the peak of the heat and smoke, it is very tempting to spray water at the wall of flame, but it will have no effect and will waste water. To escape the intense radiant heat, seek refuge in the shade of something that blocks it. Duck around a wall, stay below the roof peak on the sheltered side, or take shelter in the structure. Wait until you have an opportunity to do some good with your water. Then step out and put it where it counts. Use the water when and where you have the advantage, not on fire that is burning at its highest intensity. 5B.11

112 VII. USE OF FOAM ON INTERFACE FIRES A. Class A Foam Class A foam is an aggregation of small bubbles created by mechanically injecting air into a foam solution (a mixture of water and foam concentrate) by: Air aspirating nozzle systems that can produce wet and fluid foams. Compressed air foam systems that can produce wet, fluid, and dry foams. B. Properties of Foam 1. Foam increases the working volume of available water through the expansion of air bubbles. 2. Foam breaks down the surface tension of water for greater penetration of fuel surfaces (makes water wetter ). 3. Dense foam can be used to insulate fuels from exposure to flame or smother flames by limiting air supply. C. Types of Foam Types of foam have different capabilities in fire suppression. 1. Wet foam Flows readily, penetrates rapidly, but drains (dissipates) quickly. Works well for mopup, wetting down fine fuels to create wet lines to burn out from. Apply the foam line immediately ahead of the ignitors with the foam line width being three times the flame length. 5B.12

113 2. Fluid foam Flows readily and drains slower than wet foam. Works well for wet lines in fine fuels. Drains slower than wet foam and provides an insulating barrier. Aerial fuels can also be coated with foam in order to keep a surface fire on the surface. Excellent for pretreating structure exposures due to the ability of foam to break down the surface tension of water for greater penetration of moisture in exposed areas. Fluid foam can last up to 30 minutes. 3. Dry foam Coats and adheres well; wets and drains at a slow rate. Can be used to smother flames in burning material provided quick, deep penetration is not needed. Excellent for insulating and capping in moisture on structures or anything it is sprayed one. D. Structure Treatment Dry foam can last up to one hour if conditions are right. Foam will cling to walls and the roof, to provide the insulating barrier needed to protect from heat and flying embers. Apply wet foam first for moisture penetration and fluid foam second to cover and help insulate the structure. A final covering of the structure with dry foam will help insulate it even longer. 5B.13

114 Foam should be applied to the structure by lofting the foam from a distance. Start on the roof allowing layers to build up and completely cover all combustible surfaces. Roofs, eves, outside walls and any combustibles on the ground adjacent to the structure can be covered. When time permits, several coatings on the structure with foam will allow the moisture within the foam to penetrate porous materials. The action of the surfactant in foam lets water that would normally run off penetrate and stay with the fuel. Foaming structures before the fire front hits is especially beneficial where crews will not be able to remain on site to provide protection. When applying foam to a structure in the path of an approaching wildfire, timing is critical. Foam applied too early to the structure may not have the durability to provide optimum protection; begin the foaming operation too late, and firefighters may not get all structures coated, or worse, may not be able to escape an area before the flame front hits. Begin treating the structure 10 to 15 minutes before the expected front begins. Class A foam can also be used to coat fuel tanks and LPG containers. Foam clinging to the sides of these tanks will cool them and protect them from direct flame contact. However, Class A foam is not intended to be used on flammable liquid fires. When any flammable liquids or other hazardous materials are involved with fire, vacate the area, report it, and allow firefighters trained in hazardous materials to handle the situation. VIII. STAY MOBILE! A. Mobility Is Critical When numerous structures are threatened and limited suppression resources are available. Hit and run tactics have proven to be effective in some very demanding structure defense situations. 5B.14

115 B. Try Not To Become Tied Down Don t become tied down to lengthy supply and attack lines in case you are needed at another structure or moving is necessary if your safety is threatened. If possible, limit the hose lines to 200' or less. C. Hydrants Resist attaching supply lines to hydrants. Emergency units may be blocked by the supply lines and your escape may be compromised. Hit and run tactics do not require heavy streams and supply lines are rarely warranted. D. If You Must Leave In A Hurry Abandon the hose and take only the fittings. Most engines carry enough hose to deploy working lines several times. IX. RETREATING AND RETURNING A. At times, retreat is necessary due to the intensity of the fire. When the heat becomes, or will become, so bad that your safety is compromised, it is time to pull out using identified escape routes and safety zones. Use appropriate colored flagging to mark escape routes and safety zones. B. Ensure all personnel are accounted for and maintain communication during retreat. Remain calm, don t let yourself become excited and careless. Use caution and watch for hazards along the escape route. 5B.15

116 C. If escape routes are cut off, take shelter in the structure, until it is safe to move out. The structure will not immediately burn down and will offer the best protection against heat and smoke. When the worst of the fire has passed, you may be able to return and do some good on the structure. However, there may be new hazards created by the fire, including: 1. Downed power lines. 2. Burning snags, which can fall or drop large pieces without warning. 3. Debris on the road, including rocks and logs. 4. Rolling material that comes off slopes, having been made unstable by the recent burn. 5. Hot spots next to the road; smoky conditions. 6. Weakened bridges or cattle guards. 7. Be aware of fire situation on mid-slope roads. X. EXTINGUISHMENT AND FOLLOW-UP A. If time permits, mop up all residual burning materials in the vicinity of the structure to prevent spotting from an ignition source that went unnoticed. B. Remain at the structure until the homeowner returns or ensure that the structure is checked by patrol units at regular intervals if you must leave for other assignments. C. In heavier fuels, structure protection may need to be provided continuously to a single threatened house for an extended period of time. 5B.16

117 STRUCTURE PROTECTION HOSELINE EVOLUTION In the Past Municipal fire departments have become more involved with structure protection in wildland/urban interface fires. Typically, a municipal department will pull a preconnected line, roll out a trunk line, or use donut rolls to protect a structure. These methods involved a small amount of time to put in service, but require a lengthy pick up time. The introduction of lightweight single jacketed forestry hose has helped, but a quick and efficient way to break down, roll up, reposition, and set up at new structure was still needed. A New Solution Many methods are being used to reload forestry hose. Putting the hose on top of the hose cover or wrapping it around the hose reel guides in a figure eight are two common practices. These methods are fairly quick, but entanglement and the risk of injury are present. Removing the hose from these positions present complications as well. During a training session on these hose evolutions, firefighters developed a new method. The method shown here has proven to be faster, safer, and more organized than other methods developed to date. Considered herein are the tactical requirements that necessitate quick pick-up, loading and relocation to another assignment with rapid deployment capability, in most fast moving wildfires. This new method allows the hose to be placed on the ground, charged and advanced, advanced dry, or payed off the shoulder. With practice, deployment and pick-up times are in the one minute time frame. Other Considerations Always be alert for situations that shout Watch Out! Know what is happening in your area as well as the fire in general. Don t commit your resources on a loser. Fight fire aggressively and provide for safety first. 5B.17 5B-01-S215-SR Page 1 of 5

118 Position apparatus with an escape route available. If the drive is not open on both ends, then back up to the structure for quick egress. Always use a back-up person. Two firefighters deploy 1 1 /2 inch forestry hose around both sides of the structure. Streams should be able to cross at rear of structure. Use your department s S.O.P. On engineer s signal to shut down, both firefighters will bleed lines. Shoulder load hose with nozzle next to chest. Meanwhile, engineer disconnects lines from discharge outlets to facilitate draining the hose. 5B.18 5B-01-S215-SR Page 2 of 5

119 After the hose has been fully shoulder loaded, the firefighter must secure the bundle with a strap. Hose strap sling, or single length with loops. See additional drawings this page. Sling Single strap with loops Single strap tied together 5B.19 5B-01-S215-SR Page 3 of 5

120 Hang bundled hose from roller guides or other stable projection on apparatus. After the hose has been secured, the engineer re-couples it to the gated wye at the pump panel. Unit is now available for assignment. Follow remaining steps for proper deployment procedure. On arrival at the next structure, the firefighter reloads the hose on his/her shoulder, nozzle in front next to body. The hose is simply let out as the firefighter advances and the line is charged when extended. 5B.20 5B-01-S215-SR Page 4 of 5

121 An alternate method is to place the hose bundle on the ground at the unit and advance a working line toward the fire. Another method involves placing the bundle near the apparatus and advancing a dry line from that point. Make sure you are positioned so that the two streams can cross at the rear of the structure to ensure effective protection. 5B.21 5B-01-S215-SR Page 5 of 5