General Fire Subjects Guide

GENERAL FIRE SUBJECTS
Fire Brigade Mandatory Training – Version 1.0 August 2012
Training Course Provided by the Pre-Fire Planning, Training and Community Relations Section (PFPT-CRS),
Zamboanga City Fire District (ZCFD), Bureau of Fire Protection – 9 (BFP-9) Page 1 of 30
MODULE 2
General Fire Subjects
Trainee Guide

Introduction
Welcome to Module 2. In this module, we will discuss the composition of fire, the components of fire,
its characteristics, and behaviors. And also the common fire alarm systems, methods of communication
systems , and safe firefighting techniques and procedures.
Purpose: The purpose of this module is to provide you, volunteer and brigade members, a basic
understanding about fire, basic knowledge of fire alarm systems, proper manner of communication, and most
importantly knowledge in safe firefighting techniques and procedures. This training is mandatory in the
acquisition of Certificate of Competency as stated in the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Republic
Act 9514 also known as the Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008.
Scope: For the next hour, the discussion of the module will cover the topics on the basic principles of fire
extinguishments, communication, and safe firefighting operations procedures and techniques.
Objective: By the end of this module, you will:
1. Be knowledgeable on the basics about fire.
2. Know how to respond/communicate promptly to a fire caller.
3. Know how to perform duties and responsibilities of a firefighter safely.
Conditions: The instruction you’ll receive in this module is intended for fire volunteers and fire brigade
members, meaning, it is our assumption that you already received the instructions from the first module of
this training. Instruction will take place in a classroom environment. We will use lecture, conference,
demonstration, and practical exercise methods to deliver your instruction.

Chemistry of Fire
Definitions:
Fire/Combustion
a. Fire: Self-sustaining process of rapid oxidation of a fuel which produces heat and light.
b. Combustion: Self-sustaining chemical reaction yielding energy or products that cause further
reactions.
c. These terms are often used interchangeably; most often used is fire.
Heat
1. The form of energy that raises temperature.
2. The energy transferred from one body to another when the temperatures of the bodies are
different.
3. Can be measured by the amount of work it does.
Ignition temperature
1. The minimum temperature to which a fuel, in air, must be heated to start self-sustained
combustion without a separate ignition source.
Flammable Limits/Flammable Range
1. Highest and lowest percentage of a flammable gas or vapor, in air, that will explode or ignite.
2. Concentrations below the Lower Explosive (Flammable) Limit are too “lean” to burn.
3. Concentrations above the Upper Explosive (Flammable) Limit are too “rich” to burn.
4. Flammable (Explosive) Range: The range between the Lower Explosive (Flammable) Limit and
the Upper Explosive (Flammable) Limit.
a. The word explosive and flammable are often used interchangeably.
Vapor density:
1. Weight of a given volume of pure vapor or gas compared to the weight of an equal volume of
dry air at the same temperature and pressure.
2. Vapor density less than one indicates a vapor lighter than air
3. Vapor density greater than one indicates a vapor heavier than air.
Solubility:
1. Degree to which a solid, liquid, or gas dissolves in a solvent (usually water).
The Fire Triangle and Fire Tetrahedron
Components of the Fire Triangle and the Fire Tetrahedron
A. Fire Triangle
1. Components
a. Heat
b. Fuel
c. Oxygen

2. Representative of surface combustion (smoldering fire).
B. Fire Tetrahedron
1. Chemical chain reaction is added to the fire triangle.
2. Representative of the flaming mode of combustion.
The three (3) physical states of matter in which fuels are commonly found.
A. Solid fuels
1. Have a definite shape and size
a. Surface to mass ratio
b. The more surface areas exposed – the less energy is required for ignition
2. Pyrolysis
a. The chemical decomposition of a substance through the action of heat.
3. The position of the fuel affects the way it burns
a. A solid fuel in a vertical position will allow fire spread more rapidly than the same fuel
in a horizontal position
B. Liquid Fuels
1. Fuel gases are generated by a process called vaporization
a. Vaporization: The transformation of a liquid to its vapor or gaseous state
1. Energy input usually in the form of heat
2. Requires less energy than said fuels
b. With liquids, the surface to volume ratio is important
C. Gaseous fuels:
1. Can be the most dangerous of all fuel types because they are already in the natural state
required for ignition
2. Must be mixed with air in the proper proportion to burn; i.e. flammable range
The relationship of the concentration of oxygen to life safety and combustibility.
A. Concentrations below twenty-one (21) percent have some effect on life safety.
1. At nine (9) percent, an individual becomes unconscious.
2. At six (6) percent, death will occur within a few minutes.
B. In concentrations below eighteen (18) percent, fire begins to decrease.
1. Generally concentrations below fifteen (15) percent will not support combustion.
Four (4) products of combustion commonly found in structural fires that create a life hazard.
A. Heat
1. Responsible for the spread of fire.
2. Cause of burns and other injuries.
B. Smoke
1. Mixture of carbon particles and fire gases.
2. Makeup varies from fuel to fuel; all smoke is considered toxic.

3. The material burning has a direct influence on the amount and color of smoke.
C. Fire Gases
1. Carbon Monoxide (CO)
2. Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
3. Hydrogen Cyanide
4. Sulfur Dioxide
5. Nitrogen
6. Other gases depending on fuel being burned.
D. Flame (light)
1. The more complete the combustion, the less luminous the flame
2. Flame is absent in smoldering fire
Three (3) methods of heat transfer
A. Conduction
1. Heat conducted from one body to another either by direct contact or by an intervening heat
conducting medium.
2. Depends on type of conductor: metal (good), drywall (poor).
3. Example: Metal plumbing components or electrical conduit.
B. Convection
1. Transfer of heat energy by the movement of air or liquid.
2. Heated gases rise: mushrooming
3. Examples: Fire traveling through elevator shafts, stairways, balloon frame walls.
4. Direct flame contact is actually a form of convection heat transfer.
C. Radiation
1. Transfer by heat waves.
2. Travels through space until it reaches an opaque object.
3. Light colors reflect radiant heat; dark colors absorb radiant heat.
4. Major source of fire spread to exposures. (Important to protect exposures from radiant
heat.)
Law of Heat Flow
A. Heat flows from a hot substance to a cold substance.
B. A colder substance will absorb heat until temperatures are equal.
The different fire conditions and their associated hazards and appropriate actions:
A. Incipient/Ignition
1. Occurs when the four elements of the fire tetrahedron come together and combustion
begins.
2. Can be caused by a spark or flame
3. Can occur when a material reaches its ignition temperature through self-heating

4. Limited to original materials ignited.
5. Small quantity of fire gases being generated.
6. Flame temperature above 1000°F yet room temperature is only slightly increased.
7. Easiest to extinguish
B. Growth/Free-burning
1. Fire plume begins to form above the burning fuel
2. Begins to draw air from the surrounding space into the plume
3. Hot gases rise, hit the ceiling and spread until they reach the walls
4. As fire grows, the overall temperature increases
5. Rollover/Flameover
a. The ignition of combustible gases which have spread throughout the fire area
b. Differs from flashover in that only combustible gases are burning
c. One reason why firefighters stay low when entering a burning building
d. Controlled by extinguishing main body of fire
6. Flame spread: movement of flame away from source of ignition
C. Flashover
1. Transition between the growth stage and fully developed stage of a compartment fire
2. Occurs when flames flash over the entire surface of a room.
3. Occurs as a result of all the materials in the room reaching their ignition temperatures
4. Involves all exposed combustible surfaces in the compartment
5. Temperatures range from 900°F. – 1200°F.
6. Survivability unlikely if caught in a flashover
D. Fully developed
1. All combustible materials in the compartment are involved
2. Releasing the maximum amount of heat and producing large amounts of fire gases
3. Hot unburned gases are flowing from the compartment and ignite when they enter a space
with abundant air
E. Decay/Hot smoldering fire
1. As fuel is consumed, the rate of heat decreases
2. Amount of fire diminishes and temperature begins to decline
3. Glowing embers can maintain moderately high temperatures
F. Backdraft (smoke explosion)
1. Explosion or rapid burning of heated gases.
2. Occurs when oxygen is introduced into a smoldering fire.
3. Often caused by improper ventilation.
4. Warning signs:
a. Pressurized smoke exiting small openings
b. Dense gray-yellow smoke
c. Confinement and excessive heat
d. Little or no visible flame
e. Smoke leaving building in “puffs” (smoke puffing out and then sucking back in)
f. Smoke-stained windows

g. Muffled sounds
h. Sudden rapid inward movement of air when an opening is made.
Fire Alarm and Communication
Contemporary fire protection involves a variety of communications requirements associated with each
phase of an emergency response – from the initial alarm report to activities en route, during and following an
incident. As members of a team it is important for firefighters to be familiar with the components of a fire
communications system. Understanding systems capabilities and the firefighter’s role in achieving state goals
and priorities ensures that when the time comes, each person knows how to communicate effectively. This
benefit everyone involved in an emergency.
COMMUNICATION
-Is defined as the process of sending information so that the receiver can understand and
respond effectively.
FOUR BASIC ELEMENTS OF THE COMMUNICATION PROCESS
1. Information from the caller must be RECEIVED.
2. UNDERSTOOD
3. RECORDED ACCURATELY and
4. COMMUNICATED to emergency responders
REPORTS FROM CITIZENS CAN USUALLY BE CATEGORIZED AS:
1. True Emergencies
2. Perceive Emergencies
3. Non-urgent reports
4. Request for Information
When answering an Emergency Call.
1. Answer calls promptly
2. Always identify your department and
yourself,
3. Use a calm professional manner when
speaking on the phone,
4. Take accurate messages
5. If it’s a report on emergency, know the
following:
a. Type of incident.
b. Address of emergency.
c. Cross street or landmark
d. Caller’s name and location.
e. Call back number.

TELECOMMUNICATOR PRIMARY ROLE
1. To receive emergency request.
2. Evaluate the need for response.
3. Sound the alarm.
TRAITS
1. Ability to perform multiple task.
2. Ability to make decisions based on
common sense and standard values.
3. Ability to maintain composure in high
stress condition.
4. Ability to remember details and recall
information easily.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
An automatic fire alarm system is designed to detect the unwanted presence of fire by monitoring
environmental changes associated with combustion. In general, a fire alarm system is classified as either
automatically actuated, manually actuated, or both. Automatic fire alarm systems are intended to notify the
building occupants to evacuate in the event of a fire or other emergency, report the event to an off-premises
location in order to summon emergency services, and to prepare the structure and associated systems to
control the spread of fire and smoke.
 Manually actuated devices; Break glass stations, Buttons and manual fire alarm activation are
constructed to be readily located (near the exits), identified, and operated.
 Automatically actuated devices can take many forms intended to respond to any number of detectable
physical changes associated with fire: convected thermal energy; heat detector, products of
combustion; smoke detector, radiant energy; flame detector, combustion gasses; fire gas detector, and
release of extinguishing agents; water-flow detector. The newest innovations can use cameras and
computer algorithms to analyze the visible effects of fire and movement in applications inappropriate for
or hostile to other detection methods.
ALARM SYSTEMS
These are devices which includes the following:
a. Fire Alarm boxes
b. Automatic Alarms
c. Local Alarm Systems
d. Emergency Phones

How To Use Radio Communication Procedures
The International Standards
Radios are still used as the basic voice communication means in big governmental/non-governmental
organizations, fire stations, airports, train/bus stations, shipping, police stations and etc. Radios are
considered to be the most cost effective, consistent and failure-proof way of communication compared to the
many other options available such as cellular phones, satellite communication, etc. because they transmit
signals directly from the radio device to other stations. There are technical variations to this but that is beyond
the scope of this module.
In this module we will discuss the procedures of properly using radios especially VHF radios.
1. Understand and get familiar with the etiquette of radio communication.
The international radio communication language is English except in cases where you are licensed for
to speak in some other language. Using the radio is not like talking on the phone, it is a two-way
communication, meaning you cannot speak and listen at the same time or break into the conversation.
NEVER interrupt if you hear other people talking. Patiently wait until their conversation is finished
unless it is an emergency, in which case you must inform the other parties that you have a very urgent
emergency message. Do not respond to others' calls if you aren't sure it is for you. Never transmit
sensitive, confidential, financial and military information in a radio communication, it could be heard
by anyone on the same frequency.
2. Always perform radio checks and ensure that your radio is in good working condition.
Ensure that the battery is charged and the power is on. Keep the volume high enough to be able to
hear any call outs and regularly make radio checks with other stations to make sure everything is
working just fine.
3. Memorize the call signs and locations of other persons and radio stations to whom you may
communicate.
In radio communication you are not called by your name. Everybody has their own unique call sign.
Watch out if you hear any unauthorized or unknown call sign communicating on the network and
report it immediately to the radio room.

4. Think before you speak.
Decide on what you are going to transmit and to whom it is meant for. Make it as concise, precise and
as clear as possible and avoid using long and complicated sentences. Do not use abbreviations or
spoken phrases. If necessary, write down your message before transmitting it. If your message is long,
divide it into understandable short messages.
5. To call a station, first listen to ensure the channel is clear for you.
Press the PTT (Push-To-Talk) button and after 2 seconds say the recipient's call sign twice followed by
"THIS IS" and your call sign. Convey your message once the receiver replies and the communication is
established. A typical radio conversation would be as follows:
You: Papa November One, Papa November One, This is Papa November Nine, Message Over!
Recipient: Papa November Nine, This is Papa November One, Go Ahead, Over!
You: (You now say your message), Acknowledge, Over!
Recipient: Wilco (means your message was well received and will act upon), Over!
You: This is Papa November Nine, Out!
Note how in the beginning and the end of the transmission you pronounce your call sign so that people
know who is talking. If you have an emergency message and need to interrupt others' conversations,
wait and listen until you hear "Over", Press PTT and call ("BREAK, BREAK, BREAK, This is (your call sign),
I have emergency message for (recipient's call sign), Do you copy, Over!").
6. Follow the four golden rules of Radio conversation.
o Clarity: Your message should be clear enough. Speak slower than normal speed so that people
can understand you better, do not shout.
o Simplicity: Your message should be simple for everyone to understand.
o Brevity: Your message should be precise and to the point.
o Security: Follow the security procedures; do not transmit confidential information on the radio.
7. Memorize the phonetic alphabet as you will have to use it in your conversations. Following is a table
showing the international phonetics used for the alphabet.
A - ALPHA
B - BRAVO
C - CHARLIE
D - DELTA
E - ECHO
F - FOXTROT
G - GOLF
H - HOTEL
I - INDIA
J - JULIET
K - KILO
L - LIMA
M - MIKE
N - NOVEMBER
O - OSCAR
P - PAPA
Q - QUEBEC
R - ROMEO
S - SIERRA
T - TANGO
U - UNIFORM
V - VICTOR
W - WHISKEY
X - X-RAY
Y - YANKEE
Z - ZULU

You will often be required to spell a certain word or name in your radio conversations, use the above
phonetic equivalents instead of letters.
Communicating through the radio this way might be a little challenging at first and you will feel the
rush to talk as you normally do in your day to day conversations, but with practice and patience you could be a
good radio communicator.
Caution:
• Note that a license must be acquired from the government prior to using any type of radio device for
communication.
RADIO PROCEDURES
SPECIFIC PROCEDURE
1. Transmission code (10 codes).
2. Plain English.
3. Apparatus code.
General Procedures which can promote effective communication
1. Avoid unnecessary talk or transmission.
2. Determine if air is clear.(Check
frequency)
3. Hold microphone correctly.
4. Speak clearly/calmly
5. Give priority to working units.
6. Proper languages
7. Don’t touch antenna.
8. Don’t lay the microphone down.
9. Confirm

APCO “10” Codes
(Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials-International)
10-0 Use Caution
10-1 Signal Weak
10-2 Signal Good
10-3 Stop Transmitting
10-4 Copy
10-5 Relay
10-6 Station is busy
10-7 Out of Service
10-8 In Service
10-9 Repeat
10-10 Fight in Progress
10-11 Animal Problem
10-12 Stand By
10-13 Report Conditions
10-14 Prowler Report
10-15 Civil Disturbance
10-16 Domestic Problem
10-17 Meet Complaint
10-18 Urgent
10-19 Go To Station
10-20 Advise to Location
10-21 Phone ________
10-22 Disregard
10-23 Arrived At Scene
10-24 Assignment Complete
10-25 Report to ________
10-26 Detaining Suspect
10-27 Driver’s License
Information
10-28 Vehicle Registration
Information
10-29 Check Records for Want
10-30 Unauthorized Use of
Radio
10-31 Crime in Progress
10-32 Person with Gun
10-33 Emergency – All Units
Stand By
10-34 Riot
10-35 Major Crime Alert
10-36 Correct Time
10-37 Suspicious Vehicle
10-38 Stop Suspicious Vehicle
10-39 Respond with Siren and
Flashers
10-40 Do not Use Siren and
Flashers
10-41 Beginning Shift
10-42 End Shift
10-43 Information
10-44 Permission to Leave
10-45 Dead Animal
10-46 Assist Motorist
10-47 Emergency Road Repair
10-48 Traffic Control
10-49 Traffic Signal Out
10-50 Traffic Accident
10-51 Request Tow Truck
10-52 Request Ambulance
10-53 Roadway Blocked
10-54 Livestock on Roadway
10-55 Intoxicated Driver
10-56 Intoxicated Pedestrian
10-57 Hit and Run Accident
10-58 Direct Traffic
10-59 Escort
10-60 Squad in Vicinity
10-61 Personnel in Vicinity
10-62 Reply to Message
10-63 Prepare to Copy
10-64 Local Message
10-65 Next Message
10-66 Cancel Message
10-67 Clear for Next Message
10-68 Dispatch Information
10-69 Message Received
10-70 Fire Alarm
10-71 Advise Nature of Alarm
10-72 Report Progress of
Alarm
10-73 Smoke Report
10-74 Negative
10-75 In Contact with
__________
10-76 En route to
______________
10-77 Estimated Time of
Arrival
10-78 Request Assistance
10-79 Notify Corner
10-80 Pursuit in Progress
10-81 Breathalyser Report
10-82 Reserved Lodgings
10-83 School Crossing
Assignment
10-84 Estimated Time of
Arrival
10-85 Arrival Delayed
10-86 Operator on Duty
10-87 Pick Up
10-88 Advise Telephone
Number
10-89 Bomb Threat
10-90 Bank Alarm
10-91 Pick Up Subject
10-92 Illegally Parked Vehicle
10-93 Blockage
10-94 Drag Racing
10-95 Subject in Custody
10-96 Detain Subject
10-97 Test Signal
10-98 Prisoner Escape
10-99 Wanted or Stolen

FIREFIGHTING SAFETY TECHNIQUES
AND PROCEDURES
Firefighting holds one of the most dangerous and hazardous jobs in the world. Accidents in this
profession can result in costly loss- the greatest being the death of the firefighter.
Apparently, accidents may occur upon responding to a fire alarm, en route to the fire scene, during fire
ground operation and returning from an alarm.
Only by analyzing and understanding the causes of accidents is possible to prevent from happening.
Hence, SAFETY is essentially considered to reduce the number and severity of accidents.
Accidents – unplanned, uncontrolled event resulting from unsafe acts/unsafe occupational conditioning either
of which can cause injury.
Injury- hurt damage, or loss sustained as a result of accident.
CAUSES OF DEATHS
1. Stress
2. Responding, Returning to an alarm.
3. Falls falling objects in contact with
4. Products of combustion
5. Collapse
CAUSES OF INJURIES
1. Wounds cut and bruises
2. Strains and sprains.
3. Smoke or gas inhalation
4. Burns
5. Eye injuries
Safety Program
Set standards, policies, procedures, and precautions to safely purchase, operate, maintain the
department equipment and educate employees on how to protect themselves from personal injury.

Safety Standards for the Fire Service
NFPA 1500 (Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program)
-The standard contains the minimum requirements and procedures for safety and health programs.
• Station Safety
• Vehicle Safety
• EMS Safety
• FIRE Ground Safety
• Health and Safety Program
I. STATION SAFETY
A. Fire Prevention
1. Safe storage and use of flammable and combustible materials
2. Proper use and maintenance of electrical equipment, appliances and associated wiring
3. Control of ignition sources
4. Proper use and disposal of smoking materials
5. Good house keeping
6. Installation and maintenance of fire protection systems- sprinklers, fire doors, and rated
construction materials.
B. Individual Conduct
1. Avoid horseplay or other activities that may result in someone being injured
2. Walk rather than run all the times
3. Remove trip hazards
C. Slip and Slide Hazards
1. Mark wet floors to minimize use until dry
2. Advice personnel of freshly waxed floor surfaces
3. Secure loose carpeting and scatter rugs or mats
D. Cleanliness and personal hygiene
1. Wash hands with soap and water as rest rooms use or as needed
2. Exercise control of hazardous waste, especially biological waste
3. Maintain cleanliness of personal clothing and avoid taking contamination home or
elsewhere after an incident.
E. Proper Clothing for Task
1. Wear eye and ear protection
2. Use respiratory protection when there is suspected respiratory hazard present

II. VEHICLE SAFETY
A. Boarding Apparatus
1. Apparatus should not be moving
2. Driver should not start until everyone is seated and belted.
B. Responding to Alarms
1. Everyone should stay seated and belted until apparatus comes to complete stop
2. Everyone should pay attention to traffic conditions and surroundings in the event of sudden
stop or change of direction
3. Personnel do not distract driver with conversation or showing map book pages.
C. Exiting Apparatus at Scene
1. Wait until apparatus comes to complete stop
2. Use handrails and step rather than jump
3. Watch footing when exiting- be careful where you step or what you step on
4. Watch for other arriving apparatus
5. Watch for traffic-emergency lights may blind motorists
6. Watch for other personnel or apparatus operating at the scene.
D. Working Around Apparatus
1. Watch for open compartment doors
2. Watch for other personnel, apparatus, and traffic
3. Get help when removing heavy equipment
4. Avoid long reaches
5. Use proper lifting techniques when removing equipment
E. Drivers Safety
1. Driver is responsible for the safe operation of the vehicle-maintain full control of the vehicle
rather than letting it or the emergency take control
2. Driver’s job is to get everyone to the scene safely
3. Concentrate on the driving and the surroundings- not everyone sees or hears responding
apparatus
4. Emergency vehicle may have the right of way when someone gives it to them.
5. Emergency lights and sirens do not exempt the driver from minor vehicle laws.
6. Let other vehicles move out of the way rather going around them
7. Watch for moving vehicles when traffic is stopped- not everyone may know why the traffic
has stopped.

III. EMS SAFETY
A. Universal Precaution for body fluids
1. Hand protection- latex gloves
2. Eye protection- goggles or safety glasses
3. Respiratory protection- face mask
4. Protective clothing
5. Other protective clothing at vehicle accident scenes
B. Make sure scene is safe
1. Shootings
2. Fights
3. Domestic disturbances
4. Hazardous materials incidents
C. Monitoring pattern behavior
1. Patient could become violent
a. Seizures
b. Drug overdoses
c. Mental disorder
d. Diabetic emergencies
e. Traumatic emergencies
2. Have patient properly and safely secured on the cot during transport
3. Unconscious patient who may become violent when conscious.
D. Proper lifting and carrying techniques
1. Use leg rather than back
2. Lift as a team
3. Communicate with team members while loading and unloading
4. Use caution when stretcher is in raise position to avoid it in collapsing
E. Care provider restraint while treating patients in moving vehicle.
1. Attempt to working a seated and belted position
2. Consider a strap to restrict movement should the vehicle become involved in the accident
F. Safety with Equipment
1. Properly use and dispose of sharps.
2. Exercise caution using defibrillators around water
3. Avoid open flame around oxygen.

IV. FIRE GROUND SAFETY
A. Personal Safety
1. Wear personal protective clothing appropriate for the activity being undertaken.
2. Use respiratory protection with personal alert safety system activated whenever in a potentially
dangerous to life and health environment
3. Always work in teams-no freelancing
4. Stay with officer or make sure officer knows whereabouts
5. Practice accountability by staying with the team rather than depending on tan accountability
tags to maintain control of personnel.
6. Allow personnel to perform only task for which they have been trained and equipped.
B. Tool Safety
1. Carry hand and power tools properly.
2. Stop and look before using any tool.
3. Look below when working above.
C. Other Means of Avoiding Injury
1. Watch footing and avoid falls, especially in wet and cold conditions
2. Avoid being struck by sharp and blunt objects
3. Protect against burns- thermal or radiation
4. Avoid inhalation of smoke or toxic gasses.
5. Be observant for the presence of energized electrical equipment, or wires.
6. Work as part of the team.
V. HEALTH AND SAFETY PROGRAM
A. Baseline and periodic physicals
1. Initial physical examination
2. Periodic physical examination
3. Mini-physical and annual facepiece fitness test
B. Immunization program
1. Hepatitis series
2. Tetanus
C. Physical and wellness
1. Regular exercise program base on duties
2. Dietary control
3. Adequate test
4. Mental health and proper attitude

D. Exposure and examination
1. Report any suspected exposures or injuries immediately
2. Document exposures or accidents regardless of whether treatment was provided.
Fire Department Safety Officer.
(1) The duties and responsibilities of the fire department safety officer shall include, but are not limited to:
(a) Plan and coordinate safety activities.
(b) Work closely with the safety committee.
(c) Ensure accidents are investigated.
(d) Devise corrective measures to prevent accidents.
(2) Realizing safety training and recordkeeping are management's responsibility, the fire department safety
officer shall ensure the following requirements are being met:
(a) Ensure safety training for all employees.
(b) Ensure safety directives are complied with.
(c) Ensure that records are kept, but not limited to the following:
(i) Accidents
(ii) Injuries
(iii) Inspections
(iv) Exposures
(v) Medical Monitoring
(vi) Safety meetings
(vii) Apparatus
(viii) Equipment
(ix) Protective clothing
(x) Other fire department safety activities
(3) The fire department safety officer, through the fire chief, shall have the authority and responsibility to
identify and recommend correction of safety and health hazards.

(4) The fire department safety officer shall maintain a liaison with staff officers regarding recommended
changes in equipment, procedures, and recommended methods to eliminate unsafe practices and reduce
existing hazardous conditions.
Accident Prevention Program.
(1) All fire departments shall develop and implement a written safety program.
(2) Fire department safety programs shall have an assigned safety officer.
(3) Each employer shall develop a formal accident-prevention program, tailored to the needs of the fire
department and to the type of hazards involved. The department of Labor & Industries' consultation and
compliance services division may be contacted for assistance in developing appropriate programs.
(a) A safety orientation program describing the employer's safety program shall include:
(i) How and when to report injuries, including instruction as to the location of first-aid
facilities.
(ii) How to report unsafe conditions and practices.
(iii) The use and care of required personal protective equipment.
(iv) The proper actions to take in event of emergencies including the routes of exiting
from areas during emergencies.
(v) Identification of the hazardous gases, chemicals or materials involved, along with the
instructions on the safe use and emergency action following accidental exposure.
(vi) A description of the employer's total safety program.
(vii) An on-the-job review of the practices necessary to perform the initial job
assignments in a safe manner.
(4) Fire departments shall have a safety committee to serve in an advisory capacity to the fire chief.
The number of employer-selected members shall not exceed the number of employee-elected members.
(5) The frequency of safety meetings shall be determined by the safety committee, but shall not be less
than one hour per calendar quarter, however, special meetings may be held at the request of either party.

(6) Minutes shall be taken of all safety meetings. After review by the chief or his/her designee the
minutes shall be conspicuously posted at all stations.
(7) Employee submitted written suggestions or complaints shall be considered. Action
recommendations by the committee shall be transmitted in writing to the fire chief. The chief or his/her
designated agent will reply to the submitter.
(8) Inspections of fire stations shall be made at least monthly and records maintained to ensure that
stations are reasonably free of recognized hazards. These inspections shall include, but not be limited to,
tools, apparatus, extinguishers, protective equipment, and life safety equipment.
Personal Protective Equipment
WEAR YOUR PPE:
• -The Better Chance We Have To DO The Job THEY EXPECT US to Do.
DON'T WEAR YOUR PPE:
• The Better Chance We Have In NOT Doing The Job Successfully And Ending Up In The Burn Unit.
"Partial" PPE?....yep, it's hot out and whatever other excuses we have.
But we gotta take care of "us" before we take care of "them"....
Ladder Placement.....
Look Up...
• Just from a FIREFIGHTER PROTECTION STANDPOINT, it is important for the OIC to make sure the
members have a way OFF the roof...as well as making sure that there are enough-or perhaps too
many-members operating on the roof.
• Safety Officers, Ops Chiefs or Sector Officers must be assigned to insure that the members on the
roof have someone looking out for them while they work their tasks. Someone who can see THE
BIG PICTURE.
• BEWARE OF WHAT IS ABOVE YOU!
• TAKING CARE OF "OUR OWN" WHILE OPERATING...
and Down!
• Ladder placement is critical-be sure to look and see "what might happen" prior to, or following
the placement of, your ladder.
• Keep in mind the questions of:
...where IS the fire, where WAS the fire and where WILL the fire be going....and use that info to
determine your most effective, safest actions.
• Also: A firefighter footing the ladder, in addition to stabilizing, also provides us w/another set of
EYES and EARS to protect those operating on the ladder...and helps us all see "the BIG
picture"...

Working Fire
Some considerations include:
• What type of Construction is involved?
• What is the Occupancy and where are the occupants? What is the Life Hazard (along
w/occupancy)....Where are the people who live here? How will you find them and how will you
get them out? Who will TREAT any injuries?
• What is the Apparatus and Staffing that is responding. It is always MUCH easier to return
companies not needed than needing them "NOW" and having to wait! HOW QUICK can you get
the needed companies? MATCH the reported fire with appropriate response, staffing and
apparatus thru pre-plans and dispatch procedures. PREDETERMINE the tasks needed (before the
fire)! and then apply the amount of firefighters (and apparatus) needed for each task... THAT'S a
good start to help plan your needed STAFFING which directly contributes to firefighter SAFETY
and SURVIVAL!
• What Assignments would the companies be given? What Sectors would be established?
• Water Supply...What Flows are available? What size lines will be used for supply and attack? Will
your lines reach the fire? What master streams are ready and easily usable?
• Are there any Auxiliary Appliances available such as standpipes and sprinkler system?
• What's the Structural Condition prior due the fire-and due to the fire. Where IS the fire
now?...Where WAS the fire (deterioration) and where IS the fire GOING to be in 1 minute, 5
minutes or 15 minutes?
• Are there any Weather Conditions effecting fire operations?
• What are the Exposures to the fire?
• What Area Size of the area involved in or effected by the fire?
• What is the Height of the building and do you have MORE THAN Appropriate Apparatus and
Crews on the scene or on the way to deal with that consideration?
• What about REHAB and Additional Firefighters that may be needed?
•
Fire

Firefighter Safety Procedures for Interior Structural Firefighting
• Firefighters shall operate in teams of two or more and remain in communication with each other
through visual, audible, physical, safety guide rope, electronic or other means to coordinate their
activities, and
• In close enough proximity to each other to be able to provide assistance in case of an emergency.
• Except in the case of a structural fire which is in the initial or beginning stage and which can be
controlled or extinguished by portable fire extinguishers, a back-up team of at least two members shall
be available at the scene for rescue if the need arises.
• In ALL structural fires in which firefighters use SCBA, at least one additional member shall be assigned
to remain outside the structural fire and monitor the operations. (Incident Commander)
• It is not the intent of this rule to prevent any number of persons from responding to a fire call, setting
up equipment and initiating exterior fire suppression at the fire scene.
• Also, it is not the intent of this rule to prohibit an individual firefighter from taking an action to
preserve the life or safety of another person.
Electrical systems & equipment
1. SOURCES
Power Lines, Fuses, Breaker Panels, Building Wiring, Appliances
2. PRECAUTIONS
• Assume they are energized
• Notify power company.
• Do not use straight or solid hose streams
• Use caution when raising ladders
• Medical
o Physical Exams
 Prior to employment
 Scheduled
o Fitness Program
 Job task evaluations
• Combat Challenge
• SCBA Fitness Evaluation
o annual

Ways Firefighters Survive
Safe firefighting procedures are passed along from veteran firefighter to rookie firefighter by setting an
example at fires, and by conversation and explanation in the firehouse. Safe firefighting techniques are
universal. They are the same regardless of where you fight fires. Building construction and firefighting
procedures may vary, but safety and safe operating procedures on the fire ground are universal. The following
are 60 firefighting survival tips for some of the most dangerous firefighting operations. These techniques are
known and sometimes taken for granted by veteran firefighters but are unknown to young recruits. All
firefighters should understand and practice these firefighting survival tips.
1. When stretching a hose line to an upper floor of a building, do not pass a floor on fire unless a
charged hose line is in position on that floor.
2. Notify your officer when going above a fire to search for victims or vertical extension of flame or
smoke.
3. When climbing or descending a stairway between the fire floor and the floor above, stay close to
and face the wall. Heat, smoke, and flame rise vertically up the stairwell.
4. If you enter a smoke- and heat-filled room, hallway, or apartment above a fire and suspect flashover
conditions behind you, locate a second exit, a window leading to a fire escape or portable ladder, before
initiating the search.
5. Crouch down and keep one leg outstretched in front of you when advancing an attack hoseline in a
smoke-filled fire room. Proceed slowly, supporting your body weight with your rear leg. Your outstretched leg
will feel any hole or opening in the floor deck in your path of advance.
6. To prevent getting driven off a fire floor by rollover-the sudden flashes of flame mixed with smoke
(ignition of combustible gases at ceiling level) while waiting for the hose line to be charged, crouch down
outside of the burning room or apartment, close the door to the burning area. When the line is charged, open
the door and immediately attack the fire.
7. During a fire in a one-storey strip store, vent the roof skylight over the fire before advancing the
hoseline to prevent injury from backdraft explosion, or flashover.
8. When it is not possible to vent the rear or roof of a burning store quickly and signs of back draft or
explosion are evident from the front of the store, vent the front plate-glass windows and doors, stand to one
side, let the superheated combustible gases ignite temporarily, and then advance the hoseline for fire attack.
9. Self-contained breathing apparatus must be worn before entering a cellar of a burning building, even
if there is only a light haze of smoke. Carbon monoxide, a deadly, gaseous byproduct of combustion, is
colorless, odorless, explosive, and quickly builds up in unventilated below grade areas.

10. Notify your officer and wear self-contained breathing apparatus before entering a cellar to shut off
utilities. If there is confirmation of the shutoff within a reasonable amount of time or there is no radio contact,
the officer must make an immediate effort to locate the firefighter and assure his safety.
11. Do not let the presence of an operating sprinkler give you a false sense of security. Wear your SCBA
before entering a cellar. Carbon monoxide gas can be present even when a sprinkler is discharging and
controlling a smoldering fire.
12. At any collapse, stretch a hoseline and charge it to protect possible victims and rescuers from
sudden explosion and flash fire.
13. Shut off all utilities-gas, electric, and water-immediately upon arrival at a building collapse. Do not
wait for the utility company.
14. Heavy mechanical equipment, such as cranes and bulldozers, should not be used to remove
collapsed portions of a building while hand digging is being done nearby.
15. Parts of a structure that are in danger of collapsing during a rescue operation should be shored up,
remove with a crane but never pulled down by firefighters below.
16. When climbing a fire escape during a fire, always maintain a hold with one hand on a part of the
fire escape itself to prevent serious fall injury should a stair tread suddenly give way.
17. Before climbing a gooseneck ladder leading from a top-floor fire escape landing to the roof,
vigorously pull the ladder away from the building to test its stability. The gooseneck ladder could pull away
from the building if the metal fire escape or the wooden or masonry structure to which it is attached is
corroded.
18. When taking up from a fire, the fire escape drop ladder is returned to and secured at its normal
raised position. Firefighters should never attempt to descend to the street from the fire escape balcony by
climbing down the drop ladder in raised position and then dropping down to the sidewalk. Pendulum hooks
holding fire escape drop ladders have suddenly broken from their connections and firefighters on them have
been seriously injured. A firefighter should use a portable ladder or enter an apartment served by the balcony
in order to descend to the street level.
19. Stand away from the weights when lowering a counterbalance weighted ladder. They may collapse
from the impact of the ladder striking the side-walk.
20. When forcible entry is required for an inward-swinging door behind which there is intense heat and
fire, the inward swing must be controlled. A firefighter or officer should hold the doorknob closed with a
gloved hand or short piece of rope while other firefighters force the lock open.
21. A firefighter performing forcible entry on a door to an apartment on fire is extremely vulnerable to
injury from backdraft or smoke explosion once the door is opened and air flows into the fire area. The
firefighter is in error if he believes he can avoid a blast by observing warning signs or by reacting in a split-

second. Explosions happen too fast. The only real protection a firefighter has against explosion is his
protective equipment-gloves, mask face-piece, helmet, hood, turnout coat, pants, and boots-properly worn
and in good condition.
22. Generally, when a firefighter must use an axe for entry it should be moved forward forcefully in a
punching action. The power behind the axe movement comes from the firefighter's shoulder and the weight
of the axe, not the swing. If it is necessary to swing an axe during a forcible entry operation, first check for
nearby firefighters and overhead obstructions.
23. A firefighter entering a room from a ladder should first place any tools inside the window on the
floor before entering. Then, with both hands free, he should grab onto a portion of the window and test its
stability. If it does not move, the firefighter maintains his grip on the window while moving through it from the
ladder.
24. When necessary, a firefighter climbing an aerial ladder should use a ladder belt to secure himself to
the rungs. A leg lock is not be used as a substitute for a ladder belt because it will not help if a victim jumps
out a window and down the ladder.
25. Firefighters should never be up on an aerial ladder while it is being raised, rotated, or extended.
The ladder must be in position before climbing; that means making sure that the ladder locks are set, too.
26. The priorities for removing a victim from a burning building are, from highest to lowest: smoke
proof tower, interior enclosed stairway, safe fire escape, aerial platform, aerial ladder.
27. When climbing into a window of a burned-out or vacant building, drop your tools inside the
window before entering and listen to them strike the floor. If you don't hear the tool strike the floor, either
the window opens into an elevator shaft way or the floor is burned away.
28. Whenever there is a danger of wall collapse, an officer in command must establish a collapse
danger zone. A collapse danger zone should be equal to the height of the unstable wall. All firefighters should
be withdrawn away from the burning building to a distance at least equal to the height of the wall.
29. The officer establishing the collapse danger zone must take into account not only how far outward
the wall may collapse but also the horizontal span of possible wall collapse.
30. A collapse danger zone for an aerial stream will vary from that established for ground stream
operations. An aerial stream operated from a tower ladder or aerial ladder should be positioned away from an
unstable wall at a distance equal to the height of the wall above the nozzle tip.
31. Establishing a collapse zone for tall structures could require firefighters to be positioned beyond
the reach of hose streams. In this case a "flanking" position is called for: The master streams must be placed in
front of the adjoining buildings or at corner-safe areas of the fire ground. The master stream range and
effectiveness will be reduced but the life safety of the firefighters will be ensured even if the unstable wall falls
outward.

32. There are four so called “safe areas” in which to park vehicles and operate master streams at when
there is a danger of a church roof collapse. These four corner-safe areas give firefighters the greatest
probability of survival if the walls start collapsing. If all of the walls collapsed outward simultaneously
(however unlikely), only these four areas would be safe from falling debris. Warning, if the corners of the
building appear unstable stay out of that corner area.
33. After a fire has been extinguished and before overhauling begins, three safety actions should be
ordered by the officer in command: Fresh air should be pumped into the hot, smokefilled area by fans or the
ventilation system; portable lights should be set up to improve visibility; and a safety survey of the structure
and contents should be under-taken, checking especially for collapse hazards, hazardous materials The utilities
gas and electricity should be shut off before opening up walls and ceiling during overhauling.
34. Firefighters ordered to shut off utility control valves for gas or electric power must consider the
possibility of carbon monoxide and smoke accumulation in the cellar, particularly when a fire of long duration
has been extinguished in a first floor store directly above the cellar and the cellar is completely below grade
and without windows. Self-contained breathing apparatus must be worn in the cellar.
35. The firefighter's best protection against injury and death by a fall during overhauling is a properly
charged flash-light. No firefighter should respond to a fire without a personal light.
36. The most potentially, dangerous area of local floor collapse inside a burned out residence building
is the bathroom. The weight of a firefighter is enough to trigger the collapse of a fire damaged bathroom floor.
37. If flames are discovered still burning at a gas meter or broken pipe after a fire has been knocked
down, do not extinguish the flame. Let the fire burn, protect the exposures with a hose stream, and alert
command that the gas has to be shut off at the cellar or street control valve.
38. Full protective clothing-including mask face piece must be in place before a firefighter approaches a
20-pound propane cylinder to shut off the control valve when a small flame is burning at an outlet. There is a
danger of the relief valve suddenly activating, creating a fireball that could engulf the firefighter.
39. To protect a propane cylinder from exposure to a nearby fire, direct the hose stream to the top
portion of the tank. This top portion of the tank contains vapor; it is in this vapor space that most propane
cylinders BLEVE due to heat from an exposure fire.
40. When a propane cylinder is discovered burning around the cylinder valve, employ the following
tactics: Cool the vapor space. After the area is cooled with water for 10 minutes and the flames appear
stabilized in size and intensity, approach the valve in full protective equipment and mask and shut off the gas
by the control valve if possible. If the flow of burning gas can't be shut off, allow the propane cylinder to burn
itself out and use the hose stream to protect the exposure.
41. The firefighter shutting off the flow of burning gas at the propane cylinder outlet should be
protected by a wide-pattern, low-velocity stream; position the fog stream between the control valve and the

burning outlet. The fire-fighter's hand should be behind the fog curtain when turning the control valve. The
flaming outlet should be in front of the fog curtain.
42. If you are in doubt about how to control a fire involving a propane cylinder, move all civilians and
firefighters to a safe distance beyond the explosion danger zone get behind a barrier, and let it burn.
43. When walking on a peaked roof, straddle or stay near the ridge rafter. If you slip or lose your
balance you can grab on to the roof peak; the ridge of the roof is your one true handhold. Chimneys, T.V.
antennas, and soil pipes are not designed to support a falling firefighter and may break.
44. To maintain footing when walking on a peaked-roof surface, bend your legs at the knees and walk
flat-footed. This is called the "roofers walk." It will reduce your chances of sliding down a peaked roof.
45. When there is -a danger of peaked-roof deck burn-through or collapse due to an attic fire, place a
roof ladder on the sloping side of the roof from which you're operating and walk on the rungs of the ladder.
The ladder should be supported by the roof ridge and the bearing walls of the house.
46. Roof operations should be conducted from an aerial ladder or aerial platform when peaked roof
beams are in danger of collapse due to fire destruction of the attic. The firefighters should be independently
supported.
47. Firefighters should not walk on a peaked roof with a slope greater than a 30-degree angle from the
horizontal. There should be a roof ladder in place.
48. To reduce your chances of being severely injured by flashover during a search, practice a safe,
organized search method. Most firefighters killed by flash-over are disoriented and lost in smoke. When
searching a small room, maintain contact with a wall and move in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. In
a large or complex area, use a search rope as a guide. Study the room lay-outs of buildings in your community.
This will help you to search and not become disoriented.
49. With the increasing use of lexan windows, sliding scissor agates, and bars on windows, firefighters
searching for the location of the blaze or for victims should always return to the entrance door. If a firefighter
passes the fire and carries a victim to a fire escape window, they could both be trapped. Crime, or the fear of
it, moves many residents to lock up the second exit.
50. Firefighters should know the warning signs of flashover. When smoke and superheated gases force
you to crouch down below half the height of the room, there's danger of flashover. Rollover is also a sign of
possible flashover. Roll over is when flashes of flame, mixed with smoke, are seen at the upper part of a
burning room or at the top of a door or window flowing out of the opening. When you suspect flashover,
withdraw to safety.
51. Firefighters should know why the flashover phenomenon has become more common in recent
times:

• Because of the use of smoke detectors, firefighters are arriving at the scene earlier in
the growth process of the fire, frequently before flashover.
• The synthetic furnishings of a typical home are petrochemical derivatives that accelerate
flashover by liberating greater amounts of heat and flammable gases.3. Improved
quality of protective gear and equipment has allowed firefighters to enter farther into
superheated atmospheres prior to flashover. Tight building syndrome -thermal windows
and energy-efficient heat barriers behind walls and ceilings of rooms keep more heat in
the confined space of the room.
52. When operating around the perimeter of a burning building, an outside venting firefighter must
take precautions to avoid injury from falling objects. When you hear glass breaking, don’t look up. Size up the
venting assignment from a distance. Choose the window you want to vent, move in close, vent it, and back
away from the structure.
53. To determine the proper angle for placing a ground ladder, stand erect at the base of the ladder
with your boots against the ladder beams and your out-stretched arms grasping the rungs at shoulder level. If
you can do this, the ladder is at the proper climbing angle.
54. When you cannot open a window manually to vent smoke from a building and must break the
glass, stand to one side (if possible, the windward side), use a six-or eight-foot pike pole for safe reach, strike
the glass with the pike pole at the top area of the window, and work downward. If there is a possibility that
firefighters are searching inside the room, first tap the window and only break a small portion of the glass-this
will serve as a warning. Then remove the entire window with the tool. Keep helmet eye shields down for
protection, wear gloves to protect your hands, and don't stand in front of the window.
55. After flashover occurs inside a superheated, smoke-filled room, there is a point of no return
beyond which a firefighter cannot escape back to safety. The point of no return, or maximum distance a
firefighter can crawl inside a superheated room and be sure you can still get back out alive and not badly
burned after flashover, is five feet. If you are five feet inside a room that has flashed over (walking 2 ½ feet per
second) it takes you 2 seconds to get out. During this time you are engulfed in 1000 to 1200 degrees F. heat. If
you are 10 feet inside and flashover occurs you are exposed to 1000-1200 degrees F. for 4our seconds. 15 feet
you are exposed for 6 seconds and badly burned even with protective clothing. Think about it!
56. When moving through brush during a fire, the firefighter should raise a tool or arm in front of his
face as he moves forward to avoid injury by shrubbery, pointed needles, sharp leaves, or abrasive vines.
Firefighters walking behind the lead firefighter should space themselves several feet apart to avoid whipping
branches or leaves.
57. You should never enter cattails or brush that is over your head and reduces your vision. If the wind
changes, you are in danger of being engulfed by fire in the brush.
58. When the wind frequently changes direction during a brushfire operation, the safest area from
which to attack the fire is the blackened, burned-out area.

59. A survey revealed that firefighters are most often killed and injured at small brushfires in isolated
portions of larger fires. They are not killed by large timberland forest fires. Firefighters are burned to death
trying to outrun brush fires, or they are engulfed in flames when a brushfire suddenly flares up around them.
Firefighters should attack a brushfire from the flanks-the sides of the fire area between the head, the edge
along which the fire is advancing, and the rear.
60. The three most common injuries to firefighters during brush firefighting are eye injuries, falls, and
heat exhaustion. Eye shields must be worn. Firefighters should walk on roads or well-traveled paths when
possible.

Review and Closing
Review: During this module, we have discussed some things relating to General Fire Subjects. These
included:
1. The Basics of Fire.
2. It’s behavior and how it is extinguished.
3. Know how to respond/communicate promptly to a Fire Caller.
4. Performance of duties and responsibilities of a firefighter safely.
Closing: A firefighter must be able to enter the scene safely and effectively. This was just a part of what you
will learn in future training. It is critical to your survival and the survival of co-firefighters and victims. Good
luck.

General Fire Subjects Guide

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