In this edition of “KTW” captains Svorinich and Yslas discuss (1) using a Wagon Battery for transitional attack, and (2) how to manage “shift wars.” These topics and experienced-based opinions should be points of discussion amongst all of us.
Operational question: When would you consider using a Wagon Battery to gain initial knockdown prior to engaging in an interior attack?
CI Marty Svorinich, FS 57- B: You must first determine if the volume of fire exceeds that which can be extinguished by handlines. Second, know there are several factors to consider prior to employing any heavy-stream, especially if used on occupied structures. I’ve used this tactic primarily on strip-malls, but I’ve also used it on SFD’s where adjoining structures were severely exposed and with minimal resources on-scene.
Of principal importance is laying-a-line coming in and clearly communicating your tactical objective to your crew. Your apparatus must then be spotted so the WB can be used without compromising the safety of your crew and/or apparatus – avoid spotting in front of a unreinforced masonry building where the apparatus is within the structure’s collapse zone.
I recently employed this tactic at a 2-story occupied center-hall apartment building. Upon arrival heavy fire was showing from windows on the 1st and 2nd floor, along with fire blowing out the lobby area to the street. The WB was not entirely effective because I did not clearly communicate my intentions. The tank was not immediately “dumped” and my engine was not properly positioned to hit the bulk of the fire.
Although the use of a WB in an occupied residence is not customary, special consideration may be given when occupants are compartmentalized from the effects of its stream. Officers must consider these concerns along with ensuring that an aggressive attack and timely ventilation commence immediately thereafter. Softening the target allows us to quickly knockdown the bulk of the fire thereby decreasing our risk profile, but it must be used extremely responsibly.
CII Randy Yslas, FS48-B: We’ve all heard the term “pushing fire.” Unfortunately this term has long been misinterpreted on the LAFD, as hose streams do not push fire. When water is converted to steam its rapid expansion rate forces products of combustion into areas of a structure where they hadn’t previously existed.
A Wagon Battery is effective in gaining an initial knockdown, especially at fires where the intensity is so great it doesn’t support an immediate offensive attack. Using a WB in this manner should not be confused with transitional attack. This type of attack utilizes a hand line from the exterior at a steep angle (through a window or doorway) until conditions change and an interior attack can commence.
When using this tactic there are several factors to consider. Securing a water supply is foremost, followed by clearly communicating your tactics. You must also determine if the occupancy is habitational or commercial and if the fire is compartmentalized. Finally, are there sufficient resources to initiate a hose lay while simultaneously using a WB?
I’ve used this tactic on both SFD’s and commercials with success, such as on a SFD with fire through the roof of the attached garage. At such a fire it’s reasonable to assume a firewall is in place separating the occupied area from garage. I’ve also used this method on a commercial (after hours) where the only reasonable access, the front door, is blocked by heavy fire. The bottom line when using a WB in this manner is: Preparation, Communication and Decisiveness.
Leadership Question: Avoiding “shift wars” is a real issue. What actions can you employ when it’s discovered your crew isn’t doing their share of housework?
CI Svorinich: Avoiding shift wars is easy when you motivate and lead your people to be their best. Be it housework, training or emergencies, your command should strive to leave their mark with competence and effort. Hopefully, you will discover this particular type of issue before it’s brought to your attention.
It’s vital that you communicate expectations and identify your locker room leader. At the end of morning line-up I routinely ask this member about routine HW and other weekly chores. This member, understanding his role, quickly responds with the appropriate duties and chores for all to hear. During the shift I’ll make it a point to thank him for making things happen.
Officers must interact with their people throughout the day – you must get involved with their routine duties as it builds camaraderie. I’m mindful not to micro-manage, as I take more of a “fly on the wall” approach. This fosters better team building without me being the “EOE” or “STAN SMITH” of their routine duties. Participating in this manner means you’ll have to manage your front office duties more efficiently, but it’s worth it.
My strategies for addressing this issue is to “Nip it in the Bud” by maintaining an awareness of what goes on in my engine house and empowering the shift leader. If, however, they do not uphold their HW responsibilities I’ll immediately address it, ensure they have the appropriate time to complete such duties and assist them whenever practical. Be willing to TELL, TEACH and SHOW . . . and get YOUR hands dirty too.
CII Yslas: The place to start in any leadership issue is with you. As leaders we must always look within and ask ourselves: “Have my expectations been clearly communicated? Why didn’t I see this sooner? Am I setting a good example? Am I consistent? Am I spending enough time supervising and/or observing or am I in the office staring at the computer while trying to catch up on paperwork? And finally, am I over-scheduling activities and not giving my crew enough time to accomplish their work?”
After contemplating my role or lack thereof, I’ll determine the scope of this issue. Is this a credible complaint? Where did this come from? What are the facts supporting this complaint? Creating an open dialogue with the other shift commanders in this matter is often overlooked. Communication therefore is the key to solving any problem, especially when issues arise between shifts.
As you can see there’s an abundance of work that must be been done before confronting your crew. Knee-jerk reactions and accusations will only serve to build barriers that will get in the way of your goal. Although a frontal assault is sometimes needed to get things done, subtle reminders can also work in certain situations. A housework reminder at line up, scheduling weekly, monthly and annual housework on the F-957, assisting the crew with a daily chore and recognizing and commending good work are all examples of how to resolve issues such as this.
In next months KTW Captains Chris Hare, Eric Thompson and Dave Randolph will discuss (1) managing civilians at a major brush fire, and (2) their most favorite assignment.
Facilitated by Jerry Bedoya, LAFD