BY JAMES SILVERNAIL
The tactics and strategies of the first-arriving apparatus in structure fires are greatly emphasized in today's trade magazines and lectures—and rightfully so. The initial actions taken at a structure fire are critical and can determine the outcome of the incident. However, what if these actions are not adequately supported by incoming apparatus? Can a single company effectively implement all critical actions on the fireground? In a structure fire, the answer is emphatically no, and if the initial actions are not supported, catastrophic failure will occur.
For agencies that operate with adequate staffing and dedicated truck companies (predominantly urban), the issue is often cut-and-dried. Engine companies deploy initial attack lines, secure water sources, protect exposures, and deploy additional attack lines while truck companies complete all necessary functions that assist with line placement and fire attack operations, including rescue. Unfortunately, all operations are not blessed with dedicated truck companies or adequate staffing, and these support functions must be prioritized and assigned to engines detailed to the alarm. This is generally the norm for most suburban-based fire agencies. Often, second-due decision making can be considered more challenging in this situation because it requires a heightened situational awareness and the ability to make critical decisions quickly. The first-arriving company officers understand that the majority of the time they will conduct a size-up, implement a strategy, and deploy some type of fire stream. Second-due officers must assess which functions need to be implemented for the greatest impact on the initial actions.
If you are a current subscriber,login hereto access this content.
If you would like to become a subscriber, please visit ushere.
