BY JARROD M. SERGI
Fighting a fire in a roadway tunnel can be extremely challenging. The design of these tunnel systems does not allow us ease of operations when we encounter a significant fire. If you have roadway tunnels in your response area, it is essential that you spend time looking into the particular challenges that you will face in your jurisdiction. Below, I offer some tips on how to best preplan response to and mitigation of tunnel fire incidents.
The first critical factor in a tunnel fire response is ensuring clear communication with the tunnel officials. Most of these tunnels have a control center where tunnel personnel can monitor traffic flow, control ventilation, and activate fire suppression systems if the tunnel is so equipped (photo 1). If possible, station a fire department representative in this room during an incident to help direct crews and pass along important information.
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