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Fires at commercial strip malls pose many of the same problems as non-fireproof multiple dwellings. There are common cocklofts, large areas, and myriad void spaces through which fie can travel. These buildings also have overhangs in the front that can fail if exposed to fire, creating an additional safety problem if it fails and personnel are inside. There are often only two openings for access and egress – one in the front and one at the rear of the building. Fire loads vary according to occupancy and use. One of the best methods of attack for fires in these buildings is to visit them frequently and preplan them. Tenants at these structures can change frequently. It is up to your officers and fire prevention team to keep up with changes in occupancy at these structures and perform frequent inspections.
One advantage these structures feature over non-fireproof multiple dwellings is the presence of a fire alarm system. Early detection and notification of these fires via an alarm system means we have a jump on the fire and a better chance of containing it to the original occupancy. Some buildings also feature suppression systems in tandem with the notification system – all items to be included in your preplans.
This week’s drill allows personnel to review your department’s own operating procedures for fires in commercial strip malls. Review your procedures, identify these types of occupancies in your first due, and go over what you know about them. Use the general considerations and discussion questions (linked below) as a guide as you conduct the drill. Discuss search and rescue techniques, ventilation techniques, and how you’ll force entry upon arrival.
The complete drill, general considerations, and discussion questions can be found at FirefighterCloseCalls.com.
