Checking for extension in a Victorian house
In this edition of “KTW” Captains Berkery, Hampton and Nakamaru will discuss (1) checking for extension in a Victorian residence and (2) Operational Core Values. These topics and experience-based opinions should be points of discussion for all.
Operational question: You’re assigned to check for extension on the 2nd floor of a two-story Victorian with fire on the 1st floor – What are your considerations?
CII Steve Berkery, Arson Unit: As you approach the structure pause to clearly identify the smoke and fire conditions. Do your initial observations match the mental picture formulated from Tac channel inputs while enroute? Does the 2nd floor show signs of extension? Initial and ongoing observations are critically important at a Victorian type fire.
Next, confirm 1st floor operations and tactics are sound (where’s the fire, are the tactics working, what’s the impact 2nd floor). A fire on the 1st floor of a Victorian will not remain compartmentalized because of inherent design and building features; Victorian construction easily allows fire to extend vertically. Tools to support your efforts should include a 1½” hoseline, TIC, axes and pike poles.
When checking for extension use input from FA & Vent Co’s, and note smoke conditions on the 2nd floor. Ensure a “loaded” line in place when aggressively opening walls and ceilings. Practice good “Firemanship” by providing salvage prior to going ballistic. Determine early on if the attic has been “converted” – if so locate concealed access points. Regularly communicate your conditions, actions and needs with the IC, FA and Roof.
CII Brian Hampton, FS 87-C: The primary concern in a Victorian is rapid spread due to balloon construction. With no fire blocking and a lack of top and bottom plates, a fire in these structures will extend faster than in newer construction. When checking for extension in a Victorian you must be swift and aggressive.
FF’s must immediately check for extension once it’s assumed the fire has extended into the walls, and make sure you check the attic regardless of where the fire started. Large attic spaces, multiple living areas and converted attics can easily lead to delays in checking for extension.
These separate living areas have individual entrances making them difficult to locate. Look for interior stairs, an exterior staircase (rear or side) or even a staircase in the kitchen. Don’t neglect the basement; a 1st floor fire may have actually started and extended from the basement area.
The TIC is vital when checking for extension. In no case, however, should technology replace sound “firemanship” in opening walls and ceilings to confirm a lack of extension. Remember, having a “loaded” HL ready when checking for extension is absolutely vital.
CII Eric Nakamaru, FS 15-A: A Victorian home is typically very large with multiple ways of accessing the upper floors and basement area. They’re built without fire stops, which greatly contributes to rapid fire spread. Whenever you’re checking for extension it’s imperative to act quickly with the intent of cutting off the fire before it extends vertical.
When responding “into” a fire I anticipate my assignment by identifying the tasks already assigned by the IC. I’ll also ID the extent and location of the fire based on TAC channel communication. When checking for extension above the fire we’ll bring: a handline, inside ladder, pike pole, axes and a TIC. Before entering the structure I’ll take note of where the fire’s located on the 1st floor.
Once on the 2nd floor we’ll position ourselves directly above the fire. If extension isn’t obvious I’ll use a TIC or the back of an ungloved hand to check for heat in the walls. If fire is “running” the walls we’ll open (high to low) and extinguish. If fire extends beyond our floor, I’ll communicate this to the IC as to get another company above my location ASAP. Note: Anytime you’re “above” the fire safety is of the highest priority.
Leadership question: The LAFD is guided by Organizational Core Values – What are your “Operational” CORE Values when engaged in emergency activity?
CII Steve Berkery: Everyone needs to develop their Operational Core Values (OCV’s) when engaged in emergency operations. My OCV’s are based first and foremost on knowing your job. Discipline, respect and proper attitude along with supporting the mission, accomplishing a given task and a thorough “After Action” are also critical components of my OCV’s.
When in charge, be in charge – your goal should be to make sound and timely decisions based on your tactical objectives and operational plan of attack. Maintaining job competence, both technically and as a leader, is of utmost importance and will assist in conveying your OCV’s. Reliability and consistency are also vital in adhering to company SOG’s as well.
All members should maintain a high degree of Situation Awareness, both on-scene and in the firehouse. Maintaining good “SA” will assist in anticipating the need for action and upgrades within an ever-changing operational environment. When confusion or disorder appears ask yourself, “Are your actions supporting the mission?” Lastly – observe, assess and act without micromanaging, and when appropriate provide positive feedback to modify tasks and assignments.
CII Brian Hampton: It’s important for everyone to have sound Operational Core Values, especially as a leader where consistency is vital. Consistency allows your command to anticipate your actions without confusion or uncertainty. It also allows those responsible for assigning operational tasks to predict your behavior by knowing your capabilities. Such consistency increases their confidence in your judgment thus providing more opportunities to apply your OCV’s.
To a certain extent, the principles guiding your non-emergency activities should also mirror those guiding your emergency activities. Emergency Op’s are dynamic, constantly changing as you work to accomplish specific tasks and objectives. Adhering to LAFD Core Values such as a strong work ethic, trust, loyalty, commitment, dependability and integrity will also assist in safe and effectively completing operational tasks.
Firefighters often revert to those things we do over and over. Because of this and the fact our routine activities outnumber our emergency activities, we have greater opportunity to apply our everyday Core Values. When we perfect everyday LAFD Core Values we naturally default to past practices when faced with the challenges of emergency operations.
CII Nakamaru: My Operational Core Values begins with good communication. While enroute I check the MDC and convey any vital information to my crew. I’ll formulate and communicate a plan as to the desired route, type of structure, assignment and any specific hazards we may encounter. This open line of communication will continue throughout the incident and include keeping the IC informed.
Time is of the essence when arriving on-scene and as such my OCV’s are founded on this principle. Consistent training in a wide variety of areas will improve one’s skill and speed all while maintaining an appropriate knowledge base. We must never compromise safety at the expense of speed (time) – Our risk assessment therefore should determine our course of action at any incident.
Crew accountability is a never-ending “OCV.” Part of this is a contingency plan for meeting outside a structure should we become separated. Your ability to adapt and overcome is critical to the flow of action; if things go wrong, modify and get it right. Lastly, your OCV’s should enable you to visualize the “Big Picture” so you can take appropriate action to stay ahead of the game.
In next months KTW Captains Marty Svorinich and Randy Yslas will discuss (1) using a Wagon Battery for Transitional Attack, and (2) how to manage multi-shift conflicts.