Volunteer Fire Brigade Training Module 4 fire suppression and control

FIRE SUPPRESSION AND CONTROL
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 27
MODULE 4
FIRE SUPPRESSION
AND CONTROL
Trainee Guide

Introduction
Welcome, in this module we will discuss about the different firefighting strategies and tactics. Knowing
how and when to use these strategies and tactics can save lives and properties and may limit damages to a
minimum level.
Purpose: The purpose of this module is to provide you basic information on the fundamental principle
involved in firefighting procedures.
Scope: This module has four subjects with one-hour duration each namely; fundamentals of fire suppression
and control; fundamentals of practices of ventilation; fundamentals of forcible entry and overhaul operation;
and fundamentals of salvage and procedures.
Objectives: By the end of this module, you will:
1. Know the fundamental principle of fire suppression and control.
2. Know the fundamental principle of practices of ventilation.
3. Know the fundamental principle of forcible entry and overhaul operation.
4. Know the fundamental principle of salvage and procedures.
Conditions: The instructions you receive in this module is intended for fire brigade members, both old and
new ones, with the assumption that you already have knowledge about firefighting apparatus, tools and
equipment but may or may not in the principles of firefighting operation. Instructions will take place in a
classroom environment. Pictures, slideshows and actual firefighting equipment and/or demonstrations will be
used when necessary and upon availability.

Fundamentals of Fire Suppression and
Control
Stages of Fire
1. Ignition/Incipient stage – the period when the four elements of the fire tetrahedron come together
and combustion begins; the fire is small and confined to the material first ignited.
2. Growth – a fire plume begins to form above the fire which draws or entrains air from surrounding
space into the column; heat level rises and oxygen begins to decline.
3. Flashover – transition between the growth and fully developed stage and is not a specific event such as
ignition; conditions in the area change very rapidly as the fire changes from one that is dominated by
the burning of the materials first ignited to one that involves all the exposed combustible surfaces
within the area.
4. Fully-Developed – occurs when all combustible materials in the area are involved in fire; maximum
heat release based on available oxygen.
5. Decay – occurs as available fuel is being consumed and the rate of heat release begins to decline; heat
level lower and oxygen level very low.
Factors Affecting Fire Development
1. Size, number, and arrangement of ventilation openings
2. Volume of the area
3. Thermal properties of the area enclosures
4. Ceiling height of the area
5. Size, composition, and location of the fuel package that is first ignited
6. Availability and location of the fuel packages (target fuels)
Effects of Fire on Common Building Materials
1. Wood – reaction of wood to fire conditions depends on the size of the wood and the moisture content.
2. Masonry – minimally affected by fire and exposure to high temperatures although the mortar between
bricks, block and stone may be subject to more deterioration and should be checked for signs of
weakening.
3. Cast Iron – stands up well to fire and intense heat situations but may crack or shatter when rapidly
cooled with water.
4. Steel – structural members elongate when heated and may fall at approximately at 1000 degrees F.

5. Reinforced Concrete – does not perform well under fire conditions and loses its strength and spalls
6. Gypsum – excellent heat resistance and fire retardant properties.
7. Glass/Fiberglass – wire-reinforced glass may provide some thermal protection as a separation but for
the most part conventional glass is not an effective barrier to fire extension; the material used to bind
fiberglass may be combustible and can be difficult to extinguish.
Fire Extinguishment Theory
1. Temperature Reduction/Cooling – one of the most common methods of extinguishment is cooling with
water. This process depends on reducing the temperature of a fuel to a point where it does not
produce sufficient vapor to burn.
2. Fuel Removal/Starving – The fuel source may be removed by stopping the flow of liquid or gaseous fuel
or by removing solid fuel in the path of fire. Another method is to allow the fire to consume all
available fuel.
3. Oxygen Exclusion/Smothering – Reducing the oxygen available to the combustion process reduces a
fire’s growth and may totally extinguish it over time. In its simplest form, this method is used to
extinguish cooking stove fires when a cover is placed over a pan of burning food. The oxygen content
can be flooded with an inert gas such as carbon dioxide, which displaces the oxygen and disrupts the
combustion process. Oxygen can also be separated from fuel by blanketing the fuel with foam.
4. Chemical Flame Inhibition – Extinguishing agents such as some dry chemicals and halogenated agents
interrupt the combustion reaction and stop flaming. This method of extinguishment is effective on gas
and liquid fuels because they must flame to burn. Smoldering fires are not easily extinguished by these
agents.
Basic Division of Firefighting
Pre-Fire Planning
The objective is to fight the fire before it occurs. It involves collecting information and using
information to plan ahead of time how fire will be fought if they occur in various parts of the building.
During inspection, information should be obtained on the following:
• The size and construction of the building
• The life hazard, fire and smoke travel
• The contents of the building
• On-site fire protection
• Ventilation problems
• Building access

• Hazardous materials
• Hazards to firefighters
• Utility controls
• Salvage
• Hose requirements
• Water supply
Size-up
Estimate of existing conditions. Can be further subdivided into three parts:
1. Pre-alarm Size-up –first manifest itself when any information on the fire building or its exposure that
could affect operations on the fire ground is initially gathered. This might have taken place on a
previous response to the occupancy; however it generally occurs during an inspection of the building
which is made prior to the fire.
2. Response Size-up – Knowing the location of the emergency will provide knowledge as to the number
and types of companies that can be expected. If the address is in a residential area, at least 2 engine
companies ad a truck company will be received on the first alarm.
a. Initial information about the location
b. Type of occupancy
c. Time of day
d. Weather
3. Fire Ground Size-up – can be divided into two phases:
a. Preliminary size-up – the immediate estimate of the situation made by the fire ground
commander upon arrival. It forms a basis for initial deployment of personnel and equipment
and for the calling of additional help.
b. Continuous size-up – the continuous and comprehensive estimate of the situation as
firefighting operations proceeds. Things can change rapidly at a fire, explosion, and backdraft or
flashover can quickly change what appeared to a controlled situation into a nightmare.
Division Functions
Functions can be divided into companies. A company may be defined as a number of people under the
command of a company officer assigned to a station apparatus.
1. Engine Company – given the responsibility for:
a. Extinguishment of fire
b. Protecting exposure
2. Ladder Company – is given the responsibility for:
a. Ladder operations

b. Overhaul
c. Ventilation
d. Forcible entry
e. Physical rescue
f. Controlling the utilities
3. Salvage Company - is given the responsibility for salvage operations
4. Rescue Company – for emergency medical care
Rescue
As applied to firefighting, rescue is the removal of humans from places involved in fire or other
disaster. The factor of life saving or “life hazard” decides the first or immediate operating procedure at a fire
or other emergency. Rescue is the first consideration to be taken on arrival at a fire. Therefore, each officer
and the firefighters should thoroughly understand the principles governing rescue.
In case of fire or other emergencies within a building, the first questions to be considered regarding
rescue are as follows:
• Are there any people in the building?
• If so, are they in danger?
• Have there been cries for help?
• Can they be rescued?
• How can they be rescued?
• How many information been given by persons who have escaped from the building regarding
persons in the involved building?
• Has any information given by neighbors or bystanders regarding persons in the involved
building
When search is necessary, people may be unconscious and may be found in:
• Closets
• Under beds
• Furniture
• Beneath a window
• Porch
• Roofs
• Balconies
Firefighters should know all available points of entries and exits, construction of the building, layout
and hazards present. Firefighters must be trained in the use of rescue equipment such as ladders,

ropes, life nets and gas mask in order to protect their own lives and the lives of others. Knowledge of
the chemistry of fire, gases ventilation and first aid is a must for the firefighters. There can be no set
rules for rescue as conditions may differ from case to case. It could be necessary to use hose streams
to protect avenues of escape or to temporarily confine the fire. In some cases, it might be advisable to
attack the main body of the fire if such action is needed to rescue trapped people. In order to be ready
for any emergency, firefighters must be drilled regularly to develop teamwork in rescue practices.
Cover Exposure and Confinement
Exposure – used in fire service, means any building or material that is likely to become involve either directly
or indirectly with existing fire.
Two Types of Exposure Hazard
1. Interior
2. Exterior
How Fire May Extend
• From room to room on the same floor
• From floor in the upward extension
• From floor to floor in the downward extension
• From building to building where one is adjoining or built solidly against another
• From building to building not adjoining
How to Prevent Extension of Fire
• By quick extinguishment of the fire
• By protecting the exposed combustibles – an example is by using the entire fire stream power to
prevent the upward spread of fire, the spread from section to section of the involved building, or the
spread from building to building until additional apparatus and men respond to combat the original
fire.
• By fire-protective devices – should be operational at all times and if possible automatic.
o Fire-resistive construction
o Incombustible solid walls
o Fire doors
o Vertical protection
o Sprinklers
o Window protection
o Water curtain

Things to Consider in Cover Exposure
• Completely surrounding the fire with streams so that the fire will be checked at each possible avenue
of extension.
• Some buildings with solid walls create only minor exposure hazard.
• When a building faces on a wide street and the wind is blowing in the right direction, there is very little
chance of the fire extending across the street by exposure.
• Use fire streams to cover exposed buildings across an alley, court and narrow street.
• Heavy solid or vapor streams are far more effective than small streams.
• Adjust streams according to size of fire.
• If there is little danger of exposure to other buildings, cover exposure may not be necessary.
• An adjustable spray nozzle may be used when a working environment becomes too hot for firefighters
to operate.
• Wind may carry volatile gases which may ignite other combustibles on adjoining buildings.
• If the fire has gone through the roof, the buildings which deserve first attention are those on either
side of it, especially when they extend above the fire building.
• The covering of external exposures of fire buildings, when the fire is about to jump from a floor to a
floor above by way of windows, involves the use of streams to prevent its vertical extension.
• Fire streams can be directed on elevator shafts and hoist shafts to keep fire from extending through
these openings.
• In covering interior exposures, small streams are more suitable due to their mobility. Cover vertical
passageways such as dumbwaiters, elevator or hoist shafts, stairwells, pipe ducts. Vent shafts, light
wells, etc.
• Other methods of covering exposure within the building or adjoining building consist of closing doors,
trap doors, windows and other openings by which the fire spread.
• Check for burning materials falling from shafts, cover them with streams.
• Check for other exposed combustibles near the fire scene not only buildings.
• Hose lines for protection purposes should always be laid and kept ready.
Confinement
This is the action which is necessary to contain the fire in the smallest possible area.
Things to Consider
• Air conditioning systems should be shut down as soon as evidence of fire s seen.
• Note the wind direction; fire may most likely spread in that direction.
• Prevent high tension wires and electrical equipment from catching fire, falling or endangering life and
property.

• Poles can be protected with hose streams from a safe distance until wires can be cut or control
switches pulled by a qualified person.
• Check the fire walls or fire-resistant walls within the exposed building to determine if it is necessary to
ventilate the exposed building from the unexposed sides, to reduce the temperature or to take care of
smoke seepage.
Support Service
1. Search and rescue
2. Ventilation
3. Salvage
4. Ladders
5. Lighting
6. Utility Control – electricity, gases, etc.
General Considerations at the Fire Ground
1. Before any fire attack begins, civilians in danger must be rescued and moved to safety.
2. Fire attack includes getting water from the source to the scene and being able to apply it in a timely
and efficient manner.
3. There must be an ability to move sufficient quantities of water to meet fire flow needs.
4. Where units are operating outside the area of a pressurized water system, additional units may be
needed to relay or shuttle water.
5. The initial arriving units should be capable of obtaining a water supply, placing one attack line in
service and providing immediate back-up with a second line. Everyone should be made to initiate the
fire attack with 2 minutes of arrival on the scene and ready for attack.
6. The initial attack line should be directed at the fire.
7. A second line should be advanced to the area above the fire.
8. Additional lines may be needed for areas adjacent to the fire.
9. While the initial attack line for a residential structure may be 1 ½ inch, it may not provide sufficient fire
flow to overcome the heat production.
10. Consider using larger hose lines and nozzles like 2 ½ inch for fire with high heat production. Also for
commercial or large residential structure.
11. It is better to apply large fire flows and put the fire out faster than lesser amounts and eventually put
the fire out.

Firefighting Strategies
1. Offensive – made on the seat of the fire or on the immediate area involved in the fire. This is most
commonly used since, upon arrival, most fires are still small.
2. Offensive-defensive – involves a vigorous attack against the main body of the fire, while taking
adequate measures to control actual and potential extension of fire. The major portion of the fire force
operates directly on fire extinguishment problems and a lesser force on fire extension problems.
3. Defensive-offensive – this is essentially a “holding action” to keep the fire within reasonable bounds
while awaiting the availability of additional forces.
4. Defensive – all forces are heavily engaged in defensive actions. Typically, it would be used when the
volume of fire and the number and nature of exposures preclude anything but defensive techniques.
Nay offensive content that may be present in such defensive techniques as heavy streams, lacks the
dynamic, advancing qualities we associate with offensive strategies.

Fundamentals of Practices of Ventilation
Ventilation – defined as the planned, methodical, and systematic removal of pressure, heat, smoke, gases,
and in some cases, even flame from an enclosed area. It is the carefully planned release of the products of
combustion from a confined area or structure.
Importance:
1. It increases visibility for quicker location of the seat of the fire.
2. It decreases the danger to trapped occupants by channeling away hot, toxic gases or excessive heat.
3. It facilitates the entry of cooler air for the welfare of firefighters and improves life safety for rescue and
other firefighting operations.
Benefits/Advantages
1. Release combustion products
2. Reduce entry of danger
3. Assist in fire spread control
4. Assist in rescue operation
5. Assist in fire attack & extinguishment
6. Property conservation
7. Reduction of flashover potential
8. Reduction of backdraft potential
Signs of Backdraft
1. Smoke-stained windows
2. Smoke puffing at intervals from the building
3. Pressurized smoke coming from small cracks
4. Little visible flame from the exterior of the building
5. Black smoke becoming dense gray yellow
6. Confinement and excessive heat
Drawbacks/Disadvantages (if improperly done)
1. Can intensify fire
2. Cause fire spread
3. Endanger personnel
4. Create property damage
5. Create poor public relations

Smoke – is a combination of material, mostly unburned hydrocarbons that have a tarry consistency. Because
smoke is made up of only partially burned solid bits of microscopic material, it obscures vision.
Lack of Vision seriously hampers firefighting operations and also prevents victims from escaping.
Removal of smoke, heat and toxic gases will add survival time to a potential victim who is unconscious,
increasing the chance of successful rescue.
By venting the enclosure, the heat level is kept from becoming capable of producing these phenomena.:
Flashover: Everything in a confined area ignites at almost the same time.
Backdraft: Unburned smoke is heated in the absence of oxygen, and, when oxygen is introduced,
produces an explosive force.
At best, the survival time of a firefighter in full PPE and SCBA is estimated to be between 10 to 15 seconds.
Rare Situations: no ventilation at all is performed at the fire extinguishment operation. Someoccupancies are
protected by a fire inhibiting gas such as Clean Agent into the room. In this type of occupancy, an identifying
placard usually warns that this gas is present. This system might be used in computer rooms, biological labs,
museum, etc. where these occupancies may suffer more damage from water than from fire.
Types of Ventilation
1. Natural ventilation – merely requires opening doors and windows, creating a hole on the roof and
letting physics take care of the rest.
2. Mechanical ventilation – the use of smoke fans consisting of ejectors and blowers, and the use of
water to create air movement. Mechanical aids can accelerate the air movement and even reverse the
airflow against natural air current movement. Use of fans and blowers in appositive or negative mode
and water from a nozzle can provide a large air movement volume.
Natural Ventilation
1. Vertical ventilation – removal of gases and smoke through vertical channel. This will prevent fire
extension by convection from occurring at a remote part of the building.
2. Horizontal ventilation –channeling of smoke and heat out of the structure through horizontal openings
such as windows and doors.
3. Trench or Strip Ventilation – this hole is usually cut well ahead of the advancing fire for the purpose of
setting up a defensive line where the fire’s progressed will be halted. At least 4 feet wide and extends
from the exterior wall to the opposite exterior wall.

Mechanical Ventilation
1. Smoke Fans – two types of fans are sued for smoke and heat removal
a. Ejector – used to suck out smoke and heat (negative pressure ventilation)
b. Positive pressure ventilation (PPV) – air is introduced into the smoke-filled area through the use
of fans and blowers
2. Hydraulic – last of the mechanical mode of ventilation is to use water. Water is employed to create air
movement. It is a quick method for expulsion of smoke and heat but the most inefficient in mechanical
methods of ventilation.
Considerations affecting decision to ventilate:
• Is there a need for ventilation at this time?
• Where is ventilation needed?
• What type of ventilation should be used?
• Do fire and structural conditions allow for safe roof operations?
Factors to be Considered When Venting Safety Considerations
• Access to the vent site 1. Will ventilation permit the fire to extend?
• Wind direction 2. Will the escape route be cut off?
• Weather condition 3. Will ventilation endanger others?
• Exposures
• The material burning
• The height of the building
• The potential for fire spread
• Escape route
Obstacles to Ventilation
1. Security services 5. Unfamiliar building lay-out
2. Height 6. Ventilation timing
3. Poor planning 7. Access
4. Personnel assignment

Fundamentals of Forcible Entry and
Overhaul Operations
Forcible Entry – the ability to gain entry to secured areas and buildings is a primary operation at fires and
other emergencies.
Types of Tools Used For Forcible Entry
1. Striking - used to deliver impact force to break lock or drive another tool.
a. Flathead axe
b. Maul
c. Sledgehammer
d. Battering ram
e. Hammer
f. Punch & chisel
g. Lock breaker
2. Prying - used to provide mechanical advantage or leverage.
a. Crowbar
b. Halligan tool
c. Hux
d. Claw tool
e. Pry bar
f. Hydraulic tool
3. Cutting - used to cut material away; cut around locking devices, cut through a door, cut through a roof
or wall.
a. Axes
b. Saws
c. Torches
d. Bolt cutters
4. Through-the-lock
a. K tool – designed to pull out lock cylinders and expose the mechanism in order to open the lock
with various key tools.
5. Pushing/Pulling – used on a limited basis forcible entry; breaking glass, gypsum board or sheetrock.
a. Hooks
b. Pike poles

6. Power Saws
a. Rotary (circular) saw – most often gasoline powered and has changeable blades. Spins more
than 6000 rpm.
b. Chain saw – used during natural disasters
c. Ventilation saw – more efficient than rotary saw
Power Saw Cautions
• Do not push a saw beyond the limits of its design and purpose.
• Never use a power saw in a flammable atmosphere.
• Always use eye protection when operating any power saw.
Safety Considerations While Using Forcible Entry Tools
Rotary and chain saws
Entryways such as gates, overhead or personnel entry type doors, and windows have become
increasingly more secure. They often require more than a mere prying tool to open them. The rotary or chain
power saw has become the tool that can most rapidly remove the door or gate. These saws present a number
of hazards of which firefighters must be aware in order to operate them safely.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Conduct daily checks for operation and blade condition.
• Check the saw for fuel and proper operation before proceeding to the entry location.
• Equip the saw with a carry strap (standard equipment with some manufacturers).
• Use the right blade for the material being cut.
• Never carry a running saw up a ladder or through a crowd of firefighters.
• Power saws require two firefighters: the saw operator and a guide firefighter.
Carrying tools
Many forcible entry tools have sharp or pointed ends and must be carried safely from fire apparatus to
the fire scene. Firefighters should always be aware of their safety in addition to the safety of other firefighters.
• Axes
o Carry the axe with the blade away from the body and the pick head covered.
o Never carry an axe over the shoulder.
• Prying tools
o Similar to the axe, pointed and sharp edges should be carried away from the body and covered
if possible.
• Hooks or pike poles
o The tool head, the hook end, should be carried down and close to the ground. Depending on
handle length, beware of overhead electrical wires and other obstructions. Inside a building,
carry the handle close to the body with the hooked end toward the ceiling.
• Striking tools

o These tools tend to be heavy and the head should be carried close to the ground. When using
these tools do not use a free-swing motion. Firmly grasp the tool with two hands and use a
controlled and accurate stroke to move the tool.
Maintenance of Forcible Entry Tools
• Proper tool maintenance is the first step to tool safety, and tools must be inspected and cleaned on a
regular basis. Check for wear and damaged parts: tools should be removed from service or repaired
when defects are found.
Metal heads and Parts
• Remove any dirt and rust with steel wool or emery cloth.
• Use a metal file to maintain the proper profile and cutting edge.
• Sharpen edges and remove burrs with a file.
• Do not keep the blade edge too sharp; this may cause it to chip when in use.
• Do not grind the blade because it can overheat and cause it to lose the temper and become soft.
• Do not paint the metal parts. Keep them lightly oiled if desired.
Fiberglass Handles
• Check for damages or cracks.
• Wash them with soap and water and dry completely.
• Make sure metal parts are secure.
Wood Handles
• Check for damage and sand off splinters.
• Do not paint or varnish the handles. A coat of boiled linseed oil may be applied if necessary.
• Ensure that the head is securely fastened to the handle.
• Clean with soap and water, rinse then dry completely.
Typical Construction Problems
• Firewalls versus stud wall construction.
• Steel, metal, or concrete roofs versus wood frame construction.
• Steel versus wood doors.
• On occasion a firefighter may be required to force entry through a wall.
o Load bearing wall supports the building’s ceilings and/or rafters.

o Non-bearing wall can be removed safely and without danger. Can also be called partition
walls.
o Exterior Walls
 Constructed of one or more materials.
 Many residential structures are commonly constructed of brick or wood frame.
 Commercial building walls are commonly constructed of concrete, masonry or
metal.
• Interior Walls
o Many residential structures are commonly constructed of wood or metal studs covered by
gypsum, plaster or sheetrock.
o Breaching an interior wall can be dangerous because:
 Electrical wiring
 Plumbing
 Cable wires
 Phone wires
o Floors. Most popular floor constructions in residential and commercial buildings are wood
and poured concrete. Both are tough to breach and require power tools.
• Usually the best point to attempt forcible entry to a structure is the door or window.
• Doors and windows are constructed as entry points and are generally of weaker materials than
walls or roofs.
• Basic door construction
o Door – the entryway itself
o Jamb – the frame
o Hardware – the hinges and handles
o Locking device
• Wood Door Construction
o Solid core – wood core blocks covered by a face panel.
o Hollow-Core – lightweight, honeycomb interior covered by a face panel.
• Metal Door Construction
o Decorative for residential use
o May be either hollow or solid core
Guidelines for openings doors
• Try before you pry.
• Examine construction.
• Determine method of operation.
• Examine lock.

• Force? Find other method of entry?
• Use easiest, least damaging method.
Six basic methods of forcing a door
• Removing the hinge pins
• Breaking the glass and unlocking from inside
• Breaking the lock
• Prying the door and jamb apart
• Cutting an entry hole
• Battering the door down
Breaking Glass
• Wear protective clothing
• Stand to windward side
• Use a tool
• Strike at top of pane
• Keep hands above point of impact
• Take special precautions when breaking glass above the ground floor
• Wind may cause heavy shard to travel great distances
Overhaul–the final task performed by firefighters at the scene of the fire. Although the primary objective of
overhaul is to ensure that the fire is out, it generally includes doing whatever is necessary to leave the
premises in as safe and secure state as possible.
Planning Overhaul Operations:
• Start as soon as the fire has been brought under control and adequate personnel are available
• Coordinate closely with the investigators to prevent loss of important evidences and fire pattern which
are visible and measurable at the scene.
• Should not be carried out in a haphazard manner.
• Should be accomplished in a systematic and professional manner as possible.
• The fire ground commander should size-up and make a walkthrough of the premises to determine if it
is structurally safe for work parties to enter and commence working.
• During size-up, determine where it would be best to store salvageable materials and which spot would
be best for dumping debris.

Things to be considered during overhaul:
• Are the firefighters at the scene physically capable of doing the work?
• What is the condition of the exterior walls?
• Are there any unsafe conditions that should be corrected?
• Is there a water removal problem?
• Is there as equipment on the premises such as forklifts or pay loaders? Are there employees trained in
the use of the said equipment?
• What tools and equipment will be needed or to complete the work? Are they available in the scene?
• Does the department have special on call equipment that might be useful during the particular
overhaul operations?
Additional thoughts that should be considered during overhaul:
• All avenues through which heat may have extended during the fire should be thoroughly checked for
hidden or smoldering fires.
• Check all concealed spaces, particularly walls and under floor between joist.
• Broken glass lift in windows, doors transoms and so on present hazard to anyone entering the
premises.
• If not done during firefighting operations, the electricity should be shut off to the burned out area if
the insulation on any electrical wiring has been burned off.
• Be alert during the overhaul process for any materials that is subject to spontaneous heating upon
becoming wet.
• Take particular care when overhauling, bales of cotton or copra.
• Be cautious when overhauling materials to those packages that have been damaged by water or fire.
• Restrict opening of package materials to those packages that have been damaged by water or fire.
• Fires in multiple-storey buildings may make it necessary to throw materials out the window to the
ground below. However, make sure that below is clear to make injury.
Overhaul Equipment
1. Specialized tools
a. Excavation equipment
b. A heat sensor
c. Lighting
d. Combustible gas indicator
2. Small tools
a. Pick head axe
b. Pike pole and hooks

c. Saws
d. Flat head axe
e. Forcible entry tools
3. Hose lines
a. Extinguishing hidden fires
b. Fire watch
Systematic Method
• This method can be adapted for specific situations and department SOP’s.
Sector Organization
• The first step in a systematic approach to overhaul is to divide the structure into sectors. Each sector is
then assigned a different priority and level of overhaul.
• Within each sector, overhaul should follow the same basic steps:
o Separate debris
o Open voids to locate hidden fire
o Extinguish fire
o Retrieve equipment

Fundamentals of Salvage Procedures
Salvage – as applied to the firefighting service, is essentially the prevention and reduction of damage from
indirect causes.
Purpose of Salvage
• Loss reduction
• Public relations
• Clean-up
Damage caused by the fire incident may be classified as:
• Direct damage –caused by actual burning;
• Indirect damage – caused by the heat and smoke generated by the fire, water used to extinguish the
fire, falling debris, and breakage.
Some important salvage operations during a fire:
• Placing waterproof covers to protect stock, furniture, business records, fixtures, and machinery from
water and falling debris.
• Moving goods or property threatened by fire.
• Removing rugs from floors, pictures form walls, curtains from windows, etc. to protect them from
water, smoke and debris.
• Using waterproof covers to “bag” the floors.
• Diverting water from the fire building and the use of waterproof covers to cover floors and stairways
not to provide chutes necessary to divert the water to the exterior of the building.
• Ventilation of the building to remove smoke and heat.
• Removing the contents of the building where they obstruct firefighting operations and when it is not
possible to provide protection within the building.
Some of the important salvage operations after the fire is controlled or extinguished are:
• Shutting down sprinkler systems
• Replacing fused sprinkler heads
• Placing sprinkler systems back in service
• Removing water from floors and basements
• Removing articles of value from debris
• Complete ventilation of the building to remove remaining smoke and heat

• Shutting off defective or damaged water systems to prevent leakage
• Providing necessary coverage for the roof, windows and other openings to protect the interior of the
building and its contents from the elements
• The removal of covers spread during fires or other emergencies
• The securing of the building against intruders and vandalism
Salvage equipment
1. Salvage covers
a. Canvass
b. Polyethylene
c. Plastic sheeting
2. Water removal equipment
a. Buckets
b. Mop, ringer and squeegee
c. Water chutes
d. Hose
e. Pumps
f. Water vacuums
3. Smoke reduction equipment
a. Ventilation equipment
b. In-house fan system
c. Windows
d. Smoke ejector or blower
Salvage Covers – very important of salvage operations, the success of salvage operations depend as much
upon proper cover maintenance as upon their application.
Care of Covers
• Avoid pulling them over sharp edges where they might become torn.
• Do not spread over broken glass and sharp debris.
• Avoid unnecessary walking over covers.
• Be careful in removing covers, watch for sharp projections.
• Do not throw covers from roofs, windows or other openings.
• Wet or dirty covers shall be washed on both sides with clear water and then hung until dry.
• Use mild soap to remove oil or stain, then rinse with clear water.
• Inspect covers for dryness, cleanliness and good repair.

• Covers that have sustained small tears or small holes shall be mended with a waterproof adhesive
tape.
• With large tears and large holes, plainly mark and set aside.
• Covers that are clean, dry and in good repair shall be folded in the standard manner and placed on
storage racks.
• Covers carried on the apparatus and not used within a period of three months shall be removed,
refolded and replaced on the apparatus.
• Covers kept in storage and not used within a period of three months shall be removed, refolded and
rotated into service on the apparatus.
• Unless unavoidable, covers in a wet or damp condition shall not be allowed to remain on the apparatus
more than twenty-four hours.
• All covers shall be regularly inspected, maintained in good condition, and ready for immediate use.
Techniques in Folding and Spreading of Salvage Covers
• One firefighter roll
• One firefighter double roll
• One firefighter fold
• Two firefighter fold
• One firefighter donut roll
• Accordion fold
Cover Work at Fires
• The first objective of salvage work is to locate the fire and then do cover work to protect the exposed
property from as much water damage as possible.
• If the fire is at the upper floor of a multiple-storey building, cover work usually starts immediately
below the fire.
• If the fire involves a portion of a large storage, mercantile or manufacturing area, it may be possible to
protect stock and machinery adjacent to the actual fire.
• Protect stocks and furnishings located below the floor of the actual fire by “bagging” which means
covering the floor completely and the edges of the cover are rolled to hold water.
• Upon entering the building, each firefighter assigned to salvage work should take as many covers as
can be conveniently carried.
• Work in pairs.
• One method of folding a salvage cover is to roll it for spreading by one person.
• Cover where the water is likely to reach first, select the stock most valuable and easily covered and
then proceed to the more difficult work.

• Group stocks and furnishings into compact stacks before covering.
• If time permits, remove rugs first by rolling and then place over heavy furniture.
• Valuables should be placed in drawers for safekeeping.
• If goods are removed they should be covered outside the premises.
• In commercial and industrial buildings, the covering of machinery and stocks is the first part of salvage
work.
• All damageable nature lying about on the floor of these buildings should be removed from the floor
before cover work is started.
• For stocks on shelves, remove stocks on upper shelf then try to insert covers between the shelves and
back wall.
• In covering glass top showcases, counters and wherever else necessary, place chairs, cartons or other
objects across the frames to warn firefighters against climbing or stepping on them.
• Considerable salvage is often accomplished in the use of covers as hall runners to protect floors, stairs,
carpets, rugs, and other floor or stair coverings from water damage, debris, or from firefighters
tracking debris.
• When salvaging records, extreme care must be exercised when grouping and covering them, place
records above floor level.
• Computer systems should be shut down if possible before covering them, as heat may build up in the
system because of the cover.
• When computer systems are being protected with fixed extinguishing systems, like carbon dioxide,
firefighters must be aware to wear protective breathing apparatus.
Handling Water in Buildings
• Primary objective when removing water from a building should be to remove it quickly and safely
without damage to unaffected portions of the building.
• Floor drains and soil pipe openings offer built-in means for water removal.
• Stairways may also serve as a route to the outside if conveniently located.
• As a last resort, walls can be breached or holes cut in floors.
• Use pumps if available, in draining water from basements.
Small Amounts of Water
• Can be removed from the floor of a building with scoop, shovels, buckets, brooms, squeegees, etc.

Large Amounts of Water
• Elevator shafts
o If possible, raise elevator to a point above drainage.
o Shut off electrical supply to elevator machinery.
o If exposed elevator machinery is in the basement, protect with salvage cover.
o Open basement drains.
o Make ready to remove water from the elevator pit by means of a portable pump, if necessary.
o If the elevator shaft is open, protect the opening at intervening floors with salvage covers
lapped into the shaft.
o If the elevator shaft is enclosed, block the door openings at intervening floors with salvage
covers.
Stairways
• When water is directed down stairways, cover the treads and risers in the standard manner.
• After proper placement of the covers, direct the water toward the stairway with brooms or squeegees.
• Covers must lead to the exterior or to a drainage point.
Chutes to the Outside
• Chutes can be constructed with salvage covers.
• A very effective short chute can be made by removing a door from its hinges and placing one end on
the window sill with the other end pitched higher to drain. A rolled salvage cover is used to channel the
water.
• Holes should be cut in floors only when large amounts of water are present and draining facilities are
inadequate.
• Whenever it becomes necessary to cut a hole for drainage into a chute, the ceiling below the floor
containing the water must be punctured as soon as possible to prevent the water from spreading over
the ceiling below.
Dikes
• Dikes can be constructed to prevent the spread, or to direct the flow of water.
• Salvage covers rolled or folded and placed end to end may be used to good advantage to route water
out of buildings.
• Folded or rolled salvage covers are also often placed in doorways on the floor to prevent the flow of
water to rooms or areas not involved.

Catch Basin
• Can be used for quick construction of devices to trap large amounts of water.
• Although suitable method of draining the water must also be considered to eliminate the danger of
run-over.
Basement Drainage
• All stock resting on the floor, subject to water damage, must be removed or elevated.
• Toilet bowls removed from floors leave openings that allow drainage of water.
• Water may be removed with buckets and scoop shovels.
• Portable pumps can be used for faster results.
• Shut off electrical machineries to minimize hazards from electricity.
Safety During Salvage
• Work areas should be well lighted.
• Use extreme care in climbing.
• Adequate equipment and protective clothing are necessary safety factors.

Review and Closing
Review: During this module, we have discussed about the following;
1. Fundamental principle behind fire suppression and control.
2. The principle, advantages, disadvantages of practices of ventilation.
3. The purpose of forcible entry and the different tools, equipment and some
procedure of its practice.
4. The importance of overhaul operation with the equipment needed in keeping the
scene safe after the firefighting operation.
5. The importance and principle of salvage operations with procedures on different
cases.
Closing: With all the modules complete for a basic training as a fire brigade member, you
should be knowledgeable now how to properly utilize the different firefighting equipment, the
different techniques on how to use them and also the different approach and principles
behind a complete firefighting operation. What you have learned in this particular module will
help you greatly in performing your duties and responsibilities as a fire brigade member not
only in keeping the people, your properties, and area of responsibility safe but also to you ,as a
firefighter, first and foremost.

Volunteer Fire Brigade Training Module 4 fire suppression and control

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