This firefighter training video from Miami-Dade (FL) Fire Rescue Training Division demonstrates how to perform a large area search using a perimeter and backbone search.
These search techniques were developed to locate fire and occupants in sprinklered “big box” buildings with merchandise on shelves divided by aisles (think Home Depot, Ikea Furniture) or rack storage warehouses. Although sprinklers have a remarkable performance record, they tend to reduce visibility by cooling smoke, thus reducing its buoyancy. When sprinklers are operating and controlling a fire, firefighters will encounter white, steamy smoke but usually can see their feet; if not, they must get low enough to see their feet. Emphasis is placed on “riding” exterior walls with members venturing into aisles and remaining in voice contact.
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Unlike residential occupancies, where sleeping occupants are not aware of a fire, occupants in commercial occupancies are generally aware of a fire and can’t escape because exit doors are blocked by contents or locked; hence occupants are likely to be located along or near exterior walls. This large area search technique is performed in conjunction with members operating outside a fire building equipped with metal-cutting saws to cut exterior doors. In Miami-Dade jargon, the “GIB” is the firefighter that rides in the back of medic rescues, staffed by an officer and two firefighters. Miami-Dade Medic Rescues have self-contained breathing apparatus mounted in the officer’s and GIB’s seat and are equipped and tasked to perform forcible entry and search. The GIB is commonly the last person of a three-firefighter search team on a rope.
When firefighters encounter sprinklers operating , it can be tempting to shut off riser control valves and open overhead doors to improve visibility. When encountering these conditions, fire officers must consider the possibility that shutting off sprinklers and adding oxygen will cause them to lose control of the fire, lose the building, and employees to lose their jobs.
Video By Robert Hernandez.
BILL GUSTIN is a 49-year veteran of the fire service and a captain with Miami-Dade (FL) Fire Rescue. He began his fire service career in the Chicago area and is a lead instructor in his department’s Officer Development Program. He teaches tactics and company officer training programs throughout North America. He is a technical editor and an advisory board member of Fire Engineering and FDIC International.
