Live Burns

[scrambledbrains]

Here in the peoples republic of Maryland we are restrited to burning in concrete block buildings using hay for fire and smoke effect. My problem with this is the fact that our new firefighters arent getting the heat and the respect for the fires living nature.
I feel we are shorting our rookie by not taking them to structures slated for being torn down. The knowledge that walls and floors(carpet) will burn. Also knowing the sounds of a fire can be heard as it grows and runs through the pipe chase like a jet. The fact we say it's not safe is what I believe is going to put an end to our way of life. I feel within our life time we will no longer be entering structures to make an effort to knock the fire.
We all knew coming into the brotherhood that it's extremely dangerous. Hell when we are lucky enough to get a new set of turn outs it tell you that our job is ultra hazardous.
Enough of my rambling what do you all think?

[Blemaire]

My take on this as a probie is this. I would rather do a live burn in a house that is going to be torn down to get the feeling of what a real structure fire would be like than not. This is of course after doing many rev in a burn house at the academy. As with all training The S/O and staff should be completely aware and not hesitate to yank everyone out in the event of it turning south. Though getting houses that are usable in this sense hay be difficult Esp in urban districts (like mine). I still feel that it is important for everyone that does interior attack knows from day one what to look, listen, and feel for in the case you need to get out quick. Yes the best way to get this is by experiencing it for your self. but your first flash over shouldn't be on a 2 alarm in the middle of the night is should be done at the academy sim. or a controlled live burn.

I agree that our job is not safe. It is dangerous, but without people like us who is going to rush in to save someone trapped while everyone runs out. we cannot sacrifice training. because a fire fighter in thousands of dollars of equipment without training is IMO only a tiny bit better than a homeowner using a garden hose.

[DonSmithnotTMD]

A lot of places don't do Class A burns at all.

[Fire 101]

An acquired structure burn can be a recipe for disaster if not handled properly. The benefits of real time fire conditions, however, cannot be substituted.

Follow your local protocols and NFPA 1403 Standard on Live Fire Training Evolutions for the safest and most productive means to handle your departments acquired structures.