Reviewing the Response Plan
The following questions should be kept in mind when the fire officer reviews his plan of action:
- What considerations have been made for the evacuation of shoppers from the mall? Have these considerations been discussed with the mall operator? Are the exits properly identified? Do store employees understand the need for keeping exits clear and the need for prompt evacuation?
- How rapidly can an adequate water supply be developed? Have the hydrants been flow tested and is the system looped? Can the fire department develop a 1500-gpm (or as needed for the largest open area) flow when an incident occurs?
- Have all aspects of ventilation been reviewed? Ventilation is the key element in the aspect of confinement, reducing property damage and facilitating fire fighting operations. What companies will be assigned to the ventilating operation?
- Can the fire be attacked from the rear, or do fire fighters have to go into the mall?
- Has an effective fireground command structure been developed to handle the incident? Will an adequate number of trained command officers respond to assist?