Article and photos by David DeStefano
Most fire departments have a policy to ensure that a backup line is stretched to support the first attack line for all fires. This line reinforces the original attack line should the volume of fire increase or the original line suffer a loss of pressure or another problem. The backup line should be at least the same diameter as the first line and at least one length longer. The longer length will prove useful in cases where the backup is put into use laterally from the initial line or immediately above it. In addition, having a longer line at the ready will be helpful if the first engine misjudged the stretch and comes up short of the seat of the fire.
One common issue affecting the first-in engine and the first-in truck is the position of the backup line by a subsequent engine company. As action-oriented people, every firefighter on the fireground would love to be as close as possible to the seat of the fire. However, when assigned the backup line, firefighters must remember their primary function is to be prepared to enter the firefight, not to obstruct it.
Often, the backup line is stretched and held fast directly behind–or even worse–next to, the attack line. Although this may get the backup company closer to the seat of the fire, it may also cause an unnecessary bottleneck at a critical point in the firefight. Members trying to advance the attack line may be inadvertently pushed over and have their line stepped on, making it difficult to advance. The additional firefighters may also create kinks in the line. In addition, truck company firefighters trying to get past the line to conduct a search and find the seat of the fire will have more difficulty trying to get past the additional members bunched together, especially in narrow hallways. Officers and firefighters stretching a backup line must be prepared to place their line in a standby position without creating an obstacle. This can be accomplished with size-up and self-discipline.
(1) Firefighters on the backup line are shown on the lower stair landing, allowing the attack line room to advance freely. This position allows the backup firefighters the ability to see or hear the progress of the first line and deploy quickly if needed.
The exact staging point for a backup line will vary based on building layout and conditions; the key points for this important position are to stretch the correct diameter and length hose and to position it for effective deployment without competing for space with the attack line or truck members trying to conduct searches. This will also help reduce bottlenecks on stairways and in narrow halls in single and small multidwellings.
David DeStefano is a 20-year veteran of the North Providence (RI) Fire Department, where he serves as a lieutenant in Ladder Co. 1. He previously served as a lieutenant in Engine 3 and was a firefighter in Ladder 1. He teaches a variety of topics for the Rhode Island Fire Academy. He can be reached at dmd2334@cox.net.
