Overview:
Engine operation scenarios generally involve live fire events. These scenarios require an extremely rigorous degree of safety. A small fire is all you need to achieve the desired visual results. Do not increase the intensity of the fire in an attempt to impress the participants. Live fire training must conform to NFPA 1403 and other applicable NFPA standards. Main Message:
Fire fighting is a team effort and requires adequate personnel to complete a number of complex and time-critical tasks.
Tasks Involved in Engine Operations:
The following are the basic tasks involved in Engine Operations. Local unions can use a combination or variation of these tasks to suit their needs.
Tasks:
I. Live fire / Fire Pit
Applicable NFPA standards (1402 & 1403)
Talking Points:
Fuel fires are unpredictable, highly toxic and cause intense heat. Time is a critical factor in controlling
the spread of fuel fires.
A sufficient number of fire fighters are required on the scene to perform the tasks necessary for control and extinguishment. Fire fighters are also required to conduct salvage and overhaul of the fire to assure that a re-ignition does not occur. II. Hose Pull / Reel
Applicable NFPA standards (1961-1965)
Talking Points:
This is a labor-intensive process that requires a minimum of four fire fighters (two fire fighters, one officer for operation, and one pump operator).
You will experience difficulty manipulating the hose due to the weight of the water and the inflexibility of the hose. There will also be significant force from the nozzle as water is released.
Interior fire fighting is a team effort and requires adequate personnel to complete a number of complex and time-critical tasks simultaneously.
III. Burn Room/Flashover
Applicable NFPA standards (555)
Talking Points:
Response times to fires are critical due to a fire behavior phenomenon known as “flashover.” Flashover is the explosive burning of all combustibles in the room. It typically occurs within
eight to 10 minutes of the start of a fire and causes the fire to spread beyond the room of origin. Fire fighters must quickly and efficiently place water on the fire to block its advance and allow for rescue. If a fire can be held to the room of origin, it will decrease the likelihood of injury, death or property damage.
Visibility may be poor or non-existent, communication is extremely difficult, it is physically demanding and heat is often a major problem.
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