|
August 2002
The historic Holy Family Institute fire, in Emsworth, Pa. was in an occupied 3 story brick structure, approximately 200' by 80'. Fires in large occupancies require a different approach by the rapid intervention team due to the size and complexity of the operation. Teams should be "split" and redeployed to cover a wider area of the fireground. From this perspective, could you rapidly deploy to the opposite side of this structure with a single team?
The fire is obviously above the top floor in the attic space, does this tell you where most of the interior firefighters will be located? Where is this fire going? What special resources would you call for to compliment the rapid intervention team operation? Have you located ALL access and exit points, at least in your sector? What about rehab for the RIT/FAST? A hot day will take its toll on your team. Remember, if you do not have enough RIT/FAST resources on scene to cover the entire structure, call for additional help early on to protect the fireground.
Photograph by Jim Rupert, Ben Avon FD - Ben Avon, Pennsylvania |
