Engine Company
Standpipe Operations
Hands on Training
HROC-2017

Presented by
Dave McGrail and Associates
McGrail Fire Ops

The engine company standpipe operation is arguably one of the most important functions the engine company will perform. There must be a pre-established standard operating procedure for this low frequency operation, and there must be an ongoing and continuous program of hands on training.

This hands on training program will give attendees a comprehensive understanding of the essential appliances, equipment, and tools necessary for successful standpipe operations. Coupled with the appropriate equipment, attendees will be given a solid foundation of operational procedures that can be utilized for their most frequently encountered fire attack situations in high-rise and other standpipe equipped buildings.

This hands on training program will include:

1. Standpipe Appliances / Equipment: All of the essential standpipe appliances and equipment and its application will be addressed, from the recommended nozzle to the standpipe inline pressure gauge.

2. Standpipe Hose Packs: The recommended size (2 1/2-inch) hose will be addressed, including the most efficient and effective methods, for assembling, storing, transporting, and deploying (stretching) the hose packs. Specifically, the “Denver Hose Pack / Denver Fold” will be taught, utilizing light weight, velcro hose pack straps.
3. Operating and Advancing 2 1/2-inch Hose: Attendees will learn the most efficient methods for handling and operating 2 1/2-inch hose. This will include proper nozzle operation, nozzle mechanics, backup man placement, dealing with friction points, and the use of “hit and move” tactics.

4. The “Apartment Stretch”: Attendees will learn the correct method to quickly and efficiently complete an “Apartment Stretch”, with minimal manpower. This stretch is designed for, and can be utilized for situations where we have control of the door to the fire area, and that door is closed, such as an apartment door in a multiple family dwelling building. This stretch involves stretching the hoseline dry, as far as it is safely possible, typically up to the point of entry to the fire area (closed and controlled door).

5. The “Stairwell Stretch”: Attendees will learn the correct method to quickly and efficiently complete a “Stairwell Stretch”, with minimal manpower. This stretch is designed for, and can be utilized for situations where we have heavy smoke / fire / heat (an IDLH atmosphere) immediately upon exiting the stairwell onto the fire floor; such as a well involved fire area in a commercial building, or heavy smoke / fire / heat in the public hallway of a multiple family dwelling.