Reduction of Risk to Fire Fighters in Responding to Basement Fires

Abstract

The use of aerosol suppression technology was evaluated in four separate scenarios involving a simulated fire in a basement of a single family dwelling unit. In each scenario observations were made on fire compartment temperatures, the impact of using an aerosol fire suppressant agent on the fire growth, and actions of the fire fighting team. Thermocouples were used to measure fire compartment temperatures in three areas. Video recording as well as thermal imaging recordings were made during each evaluation. The observations showed that even under concentrations below those recommended by the manufacturer there was a marked decrease in the temperature in the fire compartments that the fire fighters would be entering. The use of the aerosol agents did however significantly reduce visibility. As a result of these observations a recommended protocol was developed when such devices are used in conjunction with interior attack of basement fires.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 01, 2011
Accession Number
ADA546628

Entities

People

  • Sean A. Tracey

Organizations

  • Defence Research and Development Canada

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Basements
  • Best Practices
  • Chemical Reactions
  • Combustion
  • Fire Fighting
  • Fire Safety
  • Fires
  • First Responders
  • Housing (Dwellings)
  • Observation
  • Risk
  • Safety
  • Standards
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Thermocouples
  • Training
  • Visibility

Readers

  • Atmospheric Remote Sensing.
  • Fire Suppression Systems Design.
  • Seismology