Roof Ops on Three Deckers

OK, no more whining time for serious discussion. 

 Vertical Ventilation- what is it? what are the benefits, when should you NOT do it and why?

  Vertical ventilation is the systematic removal of heat & smoke from the fire building to improve the conditions found within. It allows for fire fighters to enter  the building to conduct search & rescue, advance hose lines and decrease the time needed to control the scene.

 Engine companies and Ladder companies should start their size-up en route to the scene.Some possible thoughts should be- do I know that address? what type of buildings are in the area? is there a building that sticks out? i.e. old mill in a residential area etc. As soon as possible upon arrival stop and take a look at what you got. A quick scan where you're looking for conditions, possible access points, any situation that might preclude the use of the aerial, possible residents at windows and any other thing that could affect the duties  you're to perform.

 Engines and Ladders should coordinate the positioning of the apparatus to allow the Roof member the fastest and easiest way to the roof. This doesn't always mean using the aerial. In the South End, Back Bay, Beacon Hill, North End or anywhere buildings are row houses or even the duplex three Decker in Dorchester where fire is only on one side the structure,you can use the building next door to gain access to the roof , step over any parapet or fire wall and conduct your duties. 

 The average three decker is simple and the same general layout applies to most.On most three deckers the side walls are the bearing walls so the roof joists will run side to side.Upon arriving on the roof make sure you look for a second means of egress in case you need it.Now, where is the fire? Basement, first, second or the easiest, the third floor. Basement,first, or second floor requires some,what I'll call "detective" work. A lot of it is done before you get to the roof. Take a look at the sides of the building.Most wood-frame buildings will have windows at the half-level indicating the presence of the front stairs.Heavy fire and/or smoke conditions will necessitate putting a vent hole over these stairs.Assume balloon frame construction and check around the chimney,soil pipe (generally the biggest chase found) and if there's cock loft vents present. Heavy smoke or a red hot soil pipe indicates the presence of fire.Open up and notify the Incident Commander of what you have.

 A top floor fire is a little easier as far as locating vent holes.You want to put a vent hole as close to directly over the fire as you SAFELY can. Most books,magazines or firefighters will say a 4'x4' hole is perfect. I say make it as big as you can.Sometimes you'll only be able to make an irregular shape hole. Making the cuts are simple and hopefully at this point the roof member from the 2nd truck is up there with you.

 When you access the roof,sound off with your axe or rake to make sure where you step is stable and proceed to the spot you've chosen.When you reach the desired spot get to it. Some fire fighters like to do a quick outline with a tool which also will scrape away some gravel at the same time. I feel this is an unnecessary,time consuming operation.Make sure you have eye protection and use it. It could be the shield attached to the helmet or your own goggles but make sure your eyes are protected. Squinting or looking away is not an option.

 Start the saw and proceed to cut parallel to the side walls.You can make small pull cuts at this time although I have never seen the need for them.Cut the sides until you basically have a square U shape to it.With the old tongue & groove boards you can pull up the roof at this time.With newer roofs the 4th cut will be necessary .Use the rake or halligan and pull toward you. If there's fire in the cock loft obviously you'll be all set unless the need to make the hole bigger or additional holes are warranted.

 The second member on the roof after gaining access, can do the following:

1.  Assist the member with the saw.
   
2. While the member is cutting the ventilation hole, you can reach over the side & start venting windows by breaking them with a rake.Make sure you do it opposite the hoseline.
   

 Roof operations are very important on the fire ground. Every Engine member can attest to the relief given to the members on the line when ventilation is performed. While operating on the roof make sure you are aware of your surroundings. Never blindly walk or operate on the roof. When roof operations are done notify command and get off the roof. 

 Incident Commanders should be aware of the possible need for a hose line on the roof. This is due to the new style of rubber roof coverings being used on roofs today. Roof members have to communicate any possible extension of fire. ICs should look for and note heavy black smoke from the roof as this can indicate fire extension to the roof.

 Another option is to send the full compliment of one of the Ladder Companies on scene to the roof. This will ensure not only having enough members to conduct operations but also a supervisor who can direct operations.

 Feel free to add your own ideas or stories. Maybe you have something to add please do.