fire

Fire Attack: Offensive vs. Defensive

There are many different modes of fire attack and the type of mode used depends on the assessment of the situation by those first arriving on scene. The two most used and effective attack approaches are offensive and defensive. A key question for the Incident Commander to consider is the risk verses benefit when considering the approach to the fire. These factors will help the incident commander to determine which fire attack mode to use; however, the situation should constantly be reevaluated and the emergency personnel should be prepared to change strategies and tactics any moment during the operation.

In order to correctly determine which attack mode to use, two issues must be considered which include preincident planning of the structure and the initial size-up of the first arriving unit. These will guide the incident in the most effective way in extinguishment. If the units are able to conduct preincident planing prior to having a fire at the structure they can have a better understanding of the building construction, layout, and any types of hazards that they might encounter. Preincident planning is a process that “…will help further identify major fire threats within the community” (Shackelford, 2009, p.135). It allows firefighters the ability to look at structures and properties throughout their response area and understand key information that can help them in the future should an incident at that location arise. Firefighters will not have the ability or the time to look at every structure in their area but they can gain an understanding of many areas that are built the same. By understanding building construction and looking at the nearby buildings, firefighters can gain a gene...

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...ctions should be taken to reduce or avoid these risks. The third principle states that it is unacceptable to risk the safety of emergency personnel when there is no possibility to save the lives or property involved in the fire. Finally, in situations where the risk to fire department members is excessive, only defensive operations should be used (Kaene).

There are many different modes of fire attack and which is used is based on the situation assessed by the first unit arriving on scene. There are two different approaches that can be used and an effective attack each has their own difference and approaches. These factors will show the

Incident Command which attack mode to select; however, the situation should continually be reassessed and preparations made to change strategies and tactics if necessary at any moment during the operation.