How to Avoid Backdraft



  • Firefighters should NOT get "tunnel vision" and sucked into a single task.
  • The Command post or firefighters working further away from the building have a better chance of noticing the color of the smoke and seeing the structure "breath".
  • Firefighters must NOT provide horizontal ventilation by opening doors or breaking windows.
  • Firefighters must provide vertical ventilation.
smoke

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2015/07/10/22/2A6BEC6A00000578-3156500-Neighbors_spotted_smoke_pouring_from_the_attic_space_of_the_home-a-7_1436562465515.jpg


vent

http://eastpdxnews.com/images/100521/4-5-BURN.jpg


·  PROPER VENTILATION

  • Providing vertical ventilation at the highest possible point allows these hot gases and smoke to escape before igniting.
    • Most-likely roof ventilation.
    • This will take away most of the pressure within the structure.
  • Firefighter must be more cautious when entering the structure where hot gases and smoke have accumulated.
  • The ventilation crew should be coordinating with fire attack crew outside the structure.
    • Once ventilation has been made and the fire attack crew sees flames within the structure, this is the proper time to make entry and put the fire out.


Introduction    What is Backdraft?    Physics    Indications    Bibliography
 
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