By Scott Kraut
To accommodate our growing population and seemingly unstable economy, developers and architects have been forced to create new building designs. Two of the most current trends in rental properties are the “Texas Doughnut” and the “Podium” apartment structure. Both designs were created to offer convenient parking for the residents in densely populated areas. The Texas Doughnut design wraps the parking garage with the apartment complex offering parking for the residents on the same level in which they reside. The Podium-style apartment structure places wood frame apartment living atop a concrete parking garage.
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For the occupant as well as the locality these structures are convenient and make the most use of the available land on which they are constructed. For the fire service, the structures create a whole new set of challenges for tactical operations. Understanding that the building codes for these structures are typically pretty stringent in that they are sprinklered and have noncombustible siding, we know the systems in place are only as good as the installation of said system and, over time, these systems are subject to degradation.
This quick drill demonstrates one tactical challenge that we found in a hybrid of the Texas Doughnut and the Podium construction architecture located in our first-due area; it was the only solution we could come up with to deal with it. The bottom line is you have to get out there in your districts and develop these plays before the alarm. The first step is identifying the need and discussing it with your members. But, ultimately, we’ve got to get out there and put it to the test to ensure it is feasible at 0300 hours.
The photos and descriptions included with this drill illustrate tips or best practices for the given task. As with all our operations and the tasks that we perform, be a steward of the fire service by continuing to learn from others and share your knowledge with the rest of us.
Scott Kraut is a lieutenant with Fairfax County (VA) Fire and Rescue and a senior instructor with Traditions Training, LLC.
