No one wants to go defensive - but if you have to, you can still operate with AGGRESSIVE intent from a DEFENSIVE position. 🚒🔥
⭐️ Defensive operations do not just mean hitting it from above the roof. When the fire is below the roof line, we must also get our defensive operations below the roof. This may involve large portable lines, monitors, or tower ladders. Remember to avoid collapse zones when positioning your apparatus and personnel.
⭐️ Tower ladders are uniquely capable at defensive fires. Often, they can be placed low and into openings such as windows or doors. They flow more water with less manpower.
⭐️ Exterior lines should be operated with the same concepts as an interior handline. Direct the line from below towards the ceiling - work ceiling, contents, floor, repeat. Try to hit all the corners of the space. This may require moving the tower/line left so you can hit right, and up so you can hit down. A manual (no mechanics or electrics) stang gun is clutch for this when using a tower ladder.
As we transition to defensive at this fire, you can hear me talking with the IC about plans to get lines in place in multiple positions, and requesting an additional tower ladder on the 3rd alarm.
Nick Martin
