Pressure ventilation vs. Class A foam

Pressure ventilation vs. Class A foam

Todd L. Halter

Instructor

NJDFS

Pennsville (NJ) Fire & Rescue Co. 1

I read with great interest and concern George R. Cowan`s letter in the March 1997 issue. Although the letter, in theory, stresses some good points in reference to using steam to extinguish a fire, he doesn`t mention the importance of ensuring that the structure is unoccupied. This is crucial to avoid burning firefighters and victims with the steam cloud generated by the fine droplets of water (mist).

By using sound ventilation practices coupled with the effective application of water, firefighters and victims will have a better chance with cooler temperatures and greater visibility at floor level. Life safety is a firefighter`s primary responsibility, and if a few holes must be cut or a couple of windows broken to accomplish this, then so be it.

I agree that Cowan`s tactics would be feasible in certain situations, but the incident commander would have to weigh the risk-benefit factor heavily before considering such an operation.

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