FIREFIGHTING

TOOLS and
EQUIPMENT
KNOWLEDGE
OBJECTIVES
1. Enumerate the different personal protective equipment and
their importance.
2. Identify the different firefighting tools and equipment essential
for use during an emergency and explain their proper usage.

SKILLS OBJECTIVES
1. Perform the proper wearing of PPE’s.
2. Perform the proper wearing of SCBA.
3. Perform the proper using of tools and equipment.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)

INTRODUCTION
Firefighters require the BEST personal protective equipment
available because of the hostile environment in which they perform
their duties. Providing and using quality protective equipment will not
necessarily guarantee firefighter safety but injuries can be reduced
and prevented if protective ensembles and breathing apparatus are
used and maintained properly.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)
PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE Personal protective equipment
- a general term for the equipment worn
EQUIPMENT (PPE) by fire emergency service responders.
- designed to protect firefighters from
serious injuries or illnesses resulting
from contact with chemical, radiological,
physical, electrical, mechanical or other
hazards.
- includes helmet, coats, trousers, boots,
protective gloves, protective hood,
SCBA, and PASS devices.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)
PERSONAL 1. Head Protection
PROTECTIVE 2. Protective Hood
EQUIPMENT (PPE) 3. Eye Protection
4. Hearing Protection
5. Protective Coat and Trouser
6. Hand Protection
7. Feet Protection
8. Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus
(SCBA)
9. Personal Alert Safety System (PASS)
10. Personal Escape Safety Kit/Device
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)

HEAD PROTECTION (HELMET)

– Prevents the head from impact and puncture
injuries as well as from scalding water.
• Benefits of the Head Protection
 Protect head from impact
 Provide protection from heat and cold
 Provides face shields for secondary of the
eyes and face when SCBA is not required
• Types of Head Protection
 Firefighter Helmets
 Rescue Helmets
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)

HEAD PROTECTION (HELMET)

• Parts of a Helmet
 Neck Guard/Ear Covers
 Chin Straps
 Face Shield
 Head Strap Adjuster
 Brim
 Reflective Trim
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)

PROTECTIVE HOOD
– Provides protection of the firefighter’s neck, ears and face not covered by
helmet or coat from exposure to extreme heat.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)

EYE PROTECTION
– Protects the wearer’s eyes from flying solid particles or liquids.
• Types of Eye
Protection
 Helmet Face
Shield
 Safety Goggles
 SCBA Mask
Face piece
 Safety Glasses
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)

HEARING PROTECTION
– Limits noise-induced damage to the
firefighter’s ears when loud noise
situations cannot be avoided.
• Types of Hearing Protection
 Intercom/Ear protection systems
 Earmuffs / Ear Plugs
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)
PROTECTIVE COAT AND
TROUSERS
– protect the upper and lower extremities
(trunks and limbs) against cuts, abrasions,
and burn injuries resulting from radiant
heat and provides limited protection
against corrosive liquids.
– provides most of the thermal protection
from ambient heat – the more thermal
protection, the longer it will take for the
firefighter to feel the heat.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)

PROTECTIVE COAT AND TROUSERS

• Components of a Protective Coat and Trousers
 Outer Shell
 Moisture Barrier
 Thermal Barrier
• Parts of Protective Coat
 Collar  Reinforced Elbow Pads
 Storm Flaps  Straps, Zippers or Hooks
 Wristlets  Reflective Trims
 Pockets
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PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
PROTECTIVE COAT AND TROUSERS
• Parts of Protective Trouser
 Reinforced Knee Pads
 Heavy Duty Suspenders
 Reflective Trims
 Pockets
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)
HAND PROTECTION (GLOVES)
– Protects the hands from cuts, abrasions,
wounds, and burn injuries.
– Must have enough dexterity (handiness) for
proper fit to the wearer.
• Kinds of Hand Protection
 Firefighter Gloves (with wristlets or
Gauntlets)
 Extrication Gloves
 Knitted Gloves
 Rescue Gloves
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)
FEET PROTECTION (BOOTS)
– Protect the feet from burn injuries and puncture wounds.
• Types of Feet Protection
 Fire Boots
 Safety Shoes
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)

SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS (SCBA)

– protects the face and lungs from toxic
smoke and products of combustion.
– failure to use this equipment could lead
to failed rescue attempts, firefighter
injuries, or worst – fatalities.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)
SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS (SCBA)
• Basic Components of the SCBA
a. Backpack and Harness Assembly – holds the air cylinder on the
firefighter’s back and provides stability
b. Air Cylinder Assembly – includes cylinder, valve, and pressure
gauge
c. Regulator Assembly – includes high-pressure hose and low-
pressure hose
d. Face Piece Assembly – includes face piece lens, exhalation
valve, low-pressure hose, face piece straps
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)
SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS (SCBA)
• General Parts of the SCBA
 Backpack and Harness
 Remote Pressure Gauge
 Cylinder Pressure Gauge
 High Pressure Hose
 Face Mask
 Bypass Valve
 First Stage Regulator
 Second Stage Regulator
 Low Pressure Hose
 Exhalation Valve
 Air Cylinder
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)
SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS (SCBA)
• Limitations of SCBA
 Limitations of Wearer
 Limitations of Equipment
 Limitations of Air Supply
• Approximate Air Consumption of SCBA
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)
SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS
(SCBA)
• Types of SCBA
 Open-Circuit – most frequently used SCBA in the
fire service. This uses compressed air. The exhaled
SCBA air is vented to the outside atmosphere.
 Closed-Circuit – mostly used in long operations
and hazardous materials incidents. It can last for four
(4) long hours before replacement and weighs less
than the open-circuit because of the smaller cylinder
and uses pure liquid oxygen. It is also called
Rebreather Apparatus.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)

PERSONAL ALERT SAFETY

SYSTEM (PASS)
– provides life safety protection by
emitting a loud shriek if the firefighter
collapses or remain motionless for
approx. 30 seconds.
– Newer types of PASS are attached to
the SCBA Harness Assembly.
– also called Personal Alert Device
(PAD)
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)

PERSONAL ESCAPE
SAFETY KIT/DEVICE
– Provides life-safety protection for
the firefighter for fast, reliable
means of egress from a burning
multi-storey structure.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF PPE
 Upon return to the station, check all worn and used PPE for any
damages or contamination.
 Clean/Wash all those used in the operations before storing.
 If contaminated and cannot be disinfected, properly dispose the
equipment.
 Follow the necessary procedures for cleaning and maintaining
equipment based on the manufacturer’s instructions.
 Fire fighting equipment is designed to
extinguish fires to protect the user
from fire. This may be used by trained
fire fighters, untrained users at the
scene of fire, or built into a building
FIREFIGHTIN such as sprinkler’s system.
G EQUIPMENT
FIRE ENGINE - generally equipped
with pump, water tank, hoses, nozzle
and other tools. It contains water,
water enhancers to fight fires.
FIRE
ENGINE

FIREFIGHTING APPARATUS
These are vehicles that have been
customized for use during firefighting
operations to assist in fighting fires by
transporting firefighters to the scene and
providing them with access to the fire,
along with water or other equipment.
FIRE
ENGINE

A. Conventional Fire Apparatus

- The standard fire engine is an apparatus
designed primarily for firefighting
operations.
- The primary purpose of the engine is
transporting firefighters to the scene,
providing a limited supply of water with
which to fight the fire, and carrying tools,
equipment, and hoses needed by the
firefighters.
FIRE
ENGINE
B. Turntable Ladder Firetruck (aerial)
- perhaps the best-known form of special
purpose aerial apparatus
- is used for forcible entry, ventilation, search
and rescue, and to gain access to fires
occurring at height using a large telescopic
ladder, where conventional ladders carried on
conventional appliances might not reach.
FIRE
ENGINE
C. Heavy Rescue Vehicle
- a type of specialty firefighting or
emergency medical services
apparatus.
- primarily designed to provide the
specialized equipment necessary for
technical rescue situations such as
traffic collisions requiring vehicle
extrication, building collapses,
confined space rescue, rope rescues
and swiftwater rescue.
FIRE
ENGINE
D. Hazardous Materials Apparatus
- vehicle used for investigations of potentially dangerous goods.
FIRE
ENGINE
E. Airport Crash Tender
- are extremely powerful machines.
- They offer relatively good acceleration
(for such large, heavy vehicles)
- able to negotiate rough terrain outside
the airport area, carry large capacities
of water, and fire fighting foam, are
fitted with powerful high-capacity
pumps, and water/foam cannons and
capable of delivering firefighting media
over long distances.
FIRE
ENGINE

F. Water Tender
- a water truck with a water tank
carrying from 2000 to 5000
gallons of water, high-capacity
volume water pumps and possibly
secondary high pressure fire
pumps, soft suction and hard
suction hoses and connections,
fire hose connections, and a fast-
drafting capability.
FIRE
ENGINE

AERIAL APPARATUS
The types of aircraft used and helicopters to fight fires. It may use
chemical to include water, water enhancers such as foams, gels and
specially formulated fire retardants such as Phos-Check.
FIRE
ENGINE
A. Air Tanker
- fixed-wing aircraft fitted with tanks for dropping water, aka
Phos-Check
FIRE
ENGINE
B. Helitack
- helicopters used in aerial fighting
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EQUIPMENT

FIRE HOSE
– is a high-pressure hose that carries water or other fire retardant (such
as foam) to extinguish a fire.
– should not be used for purposes other than firefighting.

Attack Hose Booster Hose Suction Hose Relay Supply Hose Jacketed hose:
Single (200 psi)/
Double (300 psi)
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FIRE HOSE
• Hose Construction - composed of three basic components; the hose
jacket, hose liner and the couplings.
 Hose Jacket
– woven material that forms the outer barriers of the hose.
– protects the inner hose liner from heat and mechanical damage
as well as to provide strength for high water pressures.
a. Cotton Hose Jacket
b. Rubber Hose Jacket
c. Synthetic Hose Jacket
1. Single Jacket Synthetic Hose
2. Double Jacket Synthetic Hose
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FIRE HOSE
• Hose Construction
 Hose Liner
– the inner lining of the fire hose.
– two materials commonly used to
line the inside of the hose are
rubber and thermal plastic.
– used in the hose to prevent leakage
and act as an efficient waterway
– increase the hose’s tensile
strength.
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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FIRE HOSE
CAUSES AND PREVENTION OF FIRE HOSE DAMAGE
• Mechanical Damage
a. Avoid laying or pulling hose over rough, sharp edges or objects.
b. Use hose ramps or bridges to protect hose from vehicles running
over it.
c. Open and close nozzles, valves, and hydrants slowly to prevent
water hammer (force created by the rapid deceleration of water).
d. Change position of bends in hose when reloading hose on
apparatus.
e. Provide chafing blocks to prevent abrasion to hose when it vibrates
near the pumper.
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FIRE HOSE
CAUSES AND PREVENTION OF FIRE HOSE DAMAGE
• Thermal Damage
a. Protect hose from exposure to excessive heat or fire when possible.
b. Do not allow hose to remain in any heated area after it is dry.
c. Use moderate temperature for drying.
d. Keep the outside of woven-jacket fire hose dry.
e. Run water through hose that has not been used for some time to prolong
its life.
f. Avoid laying fire hose on hot pavement to dry.
g. Prevent hose from coming in contact with, or being in close proximity to,
vehicle exhaust systems.
h. Use hose bed covers on apparatus to shield the hose from the sun.
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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FIRE HOSE
CAUSES AND PREVENTION OF FIRE HOSE DAMAGE
• Organic Damage
a. Remove all wet woven-jacket hose from the apparatus after a fire
and replace with dry hose.
b. Remove, inspect, sweep, and reload woven-jacket hose if it has not
been unloaded from the apparatus during a period of 30 days.
c. Exercise woven-jacket hose every 30 days and run water through it
every 90 days to prevent drying and cracking of the rubber lining.
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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FIRE HOSE
CAUSES AND PREVENTION OF FIRE HOSE DAMAGE
• Chemical Damage
a. Scrub hose thoroughly and brush all traces of acid contacts with a solution of
baking soda and water.
b. Remove hose periodically from the apparatus, wash it with plain water, and dry
it thoroughly.
c. Test hose properly if there is the least suspicion of damage.
d. Avoid laying hose in the gutter or next to the curb where vehicles have been
parked because they can drop oil from their mechanical components and acid
from batteries.
e. Dispose of hose properly if it has been exposed to hazardous materials and
can not be decontaminated.
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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FIRE HOSE
GENERAL CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE HOSE
• Drying Hose
a. Hard-rubber booster hose, hard suction hose, and rubber-jacket
collapsible hose may be placed back on the apparatus while wet
with no ill effects
b. Woven-jacket hose requires thorough drying before being
reloaded on the apparatus
c. Hose should be dried in accordance with local procedures and
manufacturer’s recommendations
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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FIRE HOSE
GENERAL CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE HOSE
• Storing Hose
a. After hose has been adequately brushed, washed, and dried, it
should be rolled and stored in suitable racks
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COUPLINGS
– a mechanical device used to connect
sections of fire hoses and designed so
that it is possible to couple and
uncouple them with little effort in short
time
– generally, alloys with various
percentages of brass, aluminum or
magnesium
– made by forging, extruding, or casting
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COUPLINGS
– consists of two
major components
1. Male - external
threads
2. Female - internal
threads
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COUPLINGS
• Parts
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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COUPLINGS
• Parts
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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COUPLINGS
• Types of Couplings
a.Threaded Couplings
b.Storz-Type Couplings (Snaptite)
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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COUPLINGS
• Care of Couplings
a. Avoid dropping and/or dragging couplings.
b. Do not permit vehicles to run over fire hose.
c. Examine couplings when hose is washed and dried.
d. Remove the gasket and twist the swivel in warm, soapy water.
e. Clean threads to remove tar, dirt, gravel, and oil.
f. Inspect gasket and replaced if cracked or creased.
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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FIRE HOSE APPLIANCES
Valve Devices
• Wye Appliances
– use to divide a line of hose into two or
more lines
– often gated so that water being fed into
the hose lines maybe controlled at the
gate
• Siamese Appliances
– use to join two or more hose lines and
are brought into one
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FIRE HOSE APPLIANCES
Valve Devices
• Water Thief Appliances
– intended to be used on a large hose line
so that a smaller hose line maybe used
as desired from the same layout
• Large Diameter Hose Appliances
(Manifolds)
– use to join two or more hose lines and
are brought into one
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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FIRE HOSE APPLIANCES

Valve Devices
• Hydrant Valves
– allows the original supply line to
be connected to the hydrant
and charged before the arrival
of another pumper at the
hydrant
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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FIRE HOSE APPLIANCES
Fittings – hardware accessories for
connecting hoses of different sizes
and thread types
• Double Male/Female
– allow hoses to be connected
when both couplings are of the
same sex
• Reducer
– used to reduce larger hose line
into a smaller one
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FIRE HOSE APPLIANCES

Fittings – hardware accessories for connecting
hoses of different sizes and thread types
• Adapter
– used to connect couplings with different
thread types
• Hose Caps/Plugs
– used to close off male/female couplings
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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FIRE HOSE APPLIANCES
Intake Device
• Suction Hose Strainers
– intake devices attached to the drafting end of a hard suction
to keep debris from entering the pump
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FIRE HOSE TOOLS

• Hose Roller (Hoist)
– used to protect hose from potentially
damaging edges
• Hose Jacket
– used to temporarily correct ruptured
hoses, or mismatched or damaged
couplings without interrupting water
flow
• Hose Clamp
– used to temporarily stop water flow in
a hose line
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FIRE HOSE TOOLS

• Spanner Wrench
– used to tighten or loosen hose
couplings
• Hydrant Key
– used to remove caps from
hydrant outlets and to open
hydrant valves
• Rubber Mallet
– used to strike the lugs to tighten
or loosen intake hose couplings
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FIRE HOSE TOOLS

• Hose Bridge or Ramp
– helps prevent injury to
hose when vehicles
cross it
• Chafing Block
– devices that are used
to protect fire hose
where the hose is
subjected to rubbing
from vibrations
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FIRE HOSE TOOLS

• Hose Strap, Hose Rope,
and Hose Chain
– aids in carrying or
handling a charged hose
line
– can be used to carry and
pull fire hose
– provides a more secure
means to handle
pressurized hose
– secures hose to ladders
and other fixed objects
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FIRE HOSE ROLLS

• Single Donut Roll
• Twin Donut Roll
• Double Donut Roll
• Self Locking Twin Donut Roll
(Butterfly)
– Backpack Hose Roll
– Sling Hose Roll
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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FIRE HOSE CARRIES

• Figure of 8
• Street Drag
• Shoulder Loop
• Drain and Carry (Flat
Shoulder Carry)
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FIRE HOSE LOADS

• Accordion Technique
• Horseshoe
• Flat Load
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FIRE HOSE/COUPLING
CONNECTION
• Foot Tilt
• In Between the Knee
• Freehand Connection
• Two-Man Connection
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FIRE HOSE LAYS
• Forward Lay (hydrant to scene of fire)
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FIRE HOSE LAYS
• Reverse Lay (scene of fire to hydrant)
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FIRE HOSE LAYS
• Split Lay
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NOZZLE
– defined as, a constricting
appliance attached to the end
of a fire hose or monitor to
increase the water velocity and
form a stream. (NFPA 1965)
– device designed to control the
direction or characteristics of a
fluid flow (especially to
increase velocity) as it exits (or
enters) an enclosed chamber
or pipe.
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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NOZZLE
• Nozzle Pressure
– the pressure required for effective nozzle operation and
relates to flow and reach.
– Nozzles are designed to operate at a specific pressure,
usually 50, 75, 80 or 100 psi.
– measured in pounds per square inch or PSI.
• Nozzle Flow
– the amount of volume of water that a nozzle will provide
at a given pressure.
– measured in gallons per minute or GPM
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NOZZLE
• Nozzle Reach
– the distance the water will travel after leaving the nozzle.
– Reach is measured in feet.
– Maximum horizontal reach occurs at the nozzle being placed
at 32 degrees, while maximum vertical reach is obtained at 65
to 70 degrees
• Stream Shape
– also called stream pattern, is the arrangement or configuration
of the droplets of water as they leave the nozzle.
– The shape of the water pattern helps determine the reach of
the fire stream
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NOZZLE
• Nozzle Reaction
– the force of nature that
makes the nozzle move
in the opposite direction
of the water flow.
– nozzle operator must
counteract or fight the
backward thrust exerted
by the nozzle to
maintain control of the
nozzle and to direct it to
the correct location.
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NOZZLE
TYPES OF NOZZLE
I. Combination Nozzle (Fog Nozzle)
– allows the firefighter to change the spray
of the water from a wide cone pattern to a
straight stream flow based on the needs of
the incident.
– also have a feature which allows the
firefighter to adjust the amount of water
being discharged from the nozzle.
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NOZZLE
I. Combination Nozzle (Fog Nozzle)
A. Components
1. Stream Bumper
– The stream bumper is the rubber adjustable tip of the fog
nozzle.
– by turning the stream bumper to the left, you will create and
increase your fog pattern
– by turning the stream bumper to the right, you will create a
straight stream pattern.
WARNING: Some fog nozzles will shut-off the stream flow if the
stream bumper is turned all the way to right past the point of
straight stream.
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NOZZLE
I. Combination Nozzle (Fog Nozzle)
A. Components
2. GPM Bumper
– the adjustable collar of the nozzle that is located just
behind the stream bumper.
– allows the user to select the amount of water flow coming
from the nozzle in gallons per minute.
– a firefighter may lower the GPM setting on the nozzle to
conserve water.
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NOZZLE
I. Combination Nozzle (Fog Nozzle)
A. Components
3. Shut-off Butt
– a separate component that attaches to the fog nozzle
assembly.
– consists of a metal or plastic handle that attaches to a ball
valve located inside the waterway of the shut-off butt.
– To open the nozzle: pull back the towards you
– To close the nozzle: push the handle forward
– Opening and closing of nozzles should be done slowly and
carefully to prevent water hammer and dangerous nozzle
reaction.
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NOZZLE
SHUT-OFF
I. Combination Nozzle (Fog Nozzle) BUTT
A. Components

STREAM
BUMPER

GPM
BUMPER
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NOZZLE
I. Combination Nozzle (Fog Nozzle)
B. Stream Pattern
1. Fog Stream Pattern
ADVANTAGE:
– provides immediate protection to firefighters from
radiant and convective heat
– “Left for Life” - used to help firefighters
remember that by turning the stream bumper to
the left, you will create a fog pattern.
DISADVANTAGE:
– do not have as much reach, or penetrating power
– may disturb thermal layering, causing steam
burns to firefighters
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NOZZLE
I. Combination Nozzle (Fog Nozzle)
B. Stream Pattern
2. Straight Stream Pattern
– a pattern of the adjustable fog nozzle which
combines the flow of water into one steady stream.
ADVANTAGE:
– water travels much farther, faster and has better
penetration into the seat of the fire than that of a
fog pattern
– “Right to Fight” - used to help firefighters
remember that by turning the stream bumper to
the right, you will create a straight stream which
is commonly used during a direct attack on a
fire.
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
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NOZZLE
I. Combination Nozzle (Fog Nozzle)
B. Stream Pattern
2. Straight Stream Pattern
DISADVANTAGE:
– the firefighter will receive a more aggressive
nozzle reaction, requiring a solid stance and
firm grip.
– creates less of a heat shield which can be
used for protecting the firefighter.
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
EQUIPMENT

NOZZLE
TYPES OF NOZZLE
II. Solid Stream (Smooth Bore Nozzles)
– used for structural and wildland
firefighting.
– deliver an unbroken or solid stream of
water when exiting the hose line
– Consist of shut-off valve and smooth bore
tips
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
EQUIPMENT
NOZZLE
II. Solid Stream (Smooth Bore Nozzles)
ADVANTAGE:
– Longer reach than combination fog nozzle
– Capable of deeper penetration into burning materials
– Operate at lower pressures
– Extinguishes fire with less air movement
DISADVANTAGE:
– Do not absorb heat as readily as fog streams
– Not as effective as fog streams for hydraulic ventilation
– Cannot change setting to produce a fog pattern
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
EQUIPMENT
NOZZLE
TYPES OF NOZZLE
III. Special Purpose Nozzle
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
EQUIPMENT
NOZZLE
TYPES OF NOZZLE
III. Special Purpose Nozzle
F I R E F I G H T I N G TO O L S A N D
EQUIPMENT
NOZZLE
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF NOZZLE
a. Do not drop, throw or drive over any nozzle or shut-off butt.
b. Do not place the nozzle in dirt or other debris.
c. Open/close the nozzles slowly. Some nozzles bails have developed
stress cracks and broken from rigorous use.
d. Nozzles and fittings should be washed with a brush, mild soap and
water periodically and after each use to keep the moving components
free of debris.
e. Inspect the fins of the fog nozzle to ensure that they spin freely and are
not broken.
f. Lubricate the swivels with graphite powder and moving parts with
silicone
KNOWLEDGE REVIEW OF
OUR
OBJECTIVES OBJECTIVES
1. Enumerate the different personal protective equipment and
their importance.
2. Identify the different firefighting tools and equipment essential
for use during an emergency and explain their proper usage.

SKILLS OBJECTIVES
1. Perform the proper wearing of PPE’s.
2. Perform the proper wearing of SCBA.
3. Perform the proper using of tools and equipment.
FORCIBLE ENTRY
– the technique used by fire department
personnel to gain access to a structure
whose normal means of access is
locked, blocked or non-existent.
FORCIBLE
E N T RY

FORCIBLE ENTRY TOOLS

A. Cutting Tools
1. Axes and Hatchets
– cutting through wood,
shingles, and other natural
lightweight materials
– flat-head axes can be used as
striking tools
FORCIBLE
E N T RY
FORCIBLE ENTRY TOOLS
A. Cutting Tools
2. Handsaws
– necessary for small workplace
3. Power Saws
– makes fast and efficient cuts in
a variety of materials
– includes rotary (circular)saw,
reciprocating saw, chain saw,
and ventilation saw
FORCIBLE
E N T RY

FORCIBLE ENTRY TOOLS

A. Cutting Tools
4. Metal Cutting Devices and
Cutting Torches
– bolt cutters are used to cut
bolts, iron bars, pins, cables,
chains, and some padlock
shackles
– cutting torch is used where
high-security devices are found
FORCIBLE
E N T RY
FORCIBLE ENTRY TOOLS
B. Prying Tools - provide advantage in opening doors, windows,
locks, and in moving heavy objects
1. Manual Prying Tools
– crowbar, Halligan bar, pry bar, hux bar, claw bar, Kelly tool,
pry axe, flat bar
2. Hydraulic Prying Tools
– rescue tools, door openers (rabbit tool)
FORCIBLE
E N T RY

FORCIBLE ENTRY TOOLS

C. Pushing/Pulling Tools - have
limited use in forcible entry but give
a reach in breaking glass windows
and opening walls or ceilings
– standard pike poles, Clemens
hook, plaster hook, drywall
hook, San Francisco hook,
multipurpose hook, roofman’s
hook
FORCIBLE
E N T RY

FORCIBLE ENTRY TOOLS

D. Striking Tools
– sledgehammer, maul, battering
ram, pick, flat-head axe, mallet,
hammer, punch, chisel
– commonly used in conjunction
with another tool to effect entry
FORCIBLE
E N T RY

TOOLS COMBINATION
– No single forcible entry tool provides a firefighter with
needed force/leverage to handle all forcible entry situations
– Firefighters may have to combine two or more tools to
accomplish task
– Most important consideration is selecting proper tools for
the job
FORCIBLE
E N T RY

TOOLS SAFETY
– Become familiar with all tools used
– Read/follow manufacturers’ guidelines
– Use extreme caution in atmospheres that could be
explosive
– Keep tools in properly designated places on apparatus
FORCIBLE
E N T RY
TOOLS SAFETY
A. Prying Tool Safety
– Using incorrectly can cause
serious injury or damage the
tool
– If job cannot be done with
tool, do not strike handle of
tool; use larger tool
– Do not use prying tool as
striking tool unless designed
for purpose
FORCIBLE
E N T RY
TOOLS SAFETY
B. Rotary Saw Safety
– Use with extreme care
– Blades from different manufacturers
may look alike but not be
interchangeable
– Twisting caused by spinning blade a
hazard
– Start all cuts at full rpm
– Store blades in clean, dry environment
– Do not store composite blades in
compartment where gasoline fumes
accumulate
FORCIBLE
E N T RY
TOOLS SAFETY
C. Other Power Saw Safety
– Match saw to task and material
– Never force saw beyond design limitations
– Wear proper PPE
– Fully inspect saw before/after use
– Do not use when working in flammable atmosphere
– Maintain situational awareness
– Keep unprotected/nonessential people out of work area
– Follow manufacturer’s guidelines for operation
– Keep blades/chains well sharpened
– Be aware of hidden hazards
FORCIBLE
E N T RY

CARRYING TOOLS
A. Axes
– If not in scabbard, carry with blade away from
body
– With pick-head axe, grasp pick with hand to
cover
– Never carry on shoulder
FORCIBLE
E N T RY

CARRYING TOOLS
B. Prying Tools
– Carry with any pointed/sharp edges
away from body
C. Combinations of tools
– Strap tool combinations together
FORCIBLE
E N T RY

CARRYING TOOLS
D. Pike Poles And Hooks
– Carry with tool head down, close to
ground, ahead of body
– When entering building, carefully
reposition tool and carry with head
upright close to body
FORCIBLE
E N T RY

CARRYING TOOLS
D. Striking tools
– Keep heads close to ground
– Maintain firm grip
E. Power tools
– Never carry running tool more than 10 feet (3 m)
– Transport to where working, start there
FORCIBLE
E N T RY

GENERAL CARE/MAINTENANCE OF
FORCIBLE ENTRY TOOLS
1. Forcible entry tools function as designed when properly
maintained
2. Tool failure on fireground may have harsh consequences
3. Always read manufacturers’ recommended maintenance
guidelines
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF
F O R C I B L E E N T RY
Care of Wooden Handles
1. Inspect for cracks, blisters, splinters:
Sand if necessary
2. Wash with mild detergent and rinse,
wipe dry
3. Do not soak in water
4. Apply coat of boiled linseed oil
5. Do not paint/varnish handle
6. Check tightness of tool head
7. Limit amount of surface area
covered with paint for tool
marking
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF
F O R C I B L E E N T RY

Care of Fiberglass Handles

1. Wash with mild detergent, rinse, and wipe dry
2. Check for damage, cracks
3. Check tightness of tool head
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF
F O R C I B L E E N T RY

Care of Cutting Edges

1. Inspect cutting edge
2. Replace cutting heads when
required
3. File cutting edges by hand
4. Sharpen blade as specified
in SOP
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF
F O R C I B L E E N T RY
Care of Plated Surfaces
1. Inspect for damage
2. Wipe clean or wash with mild detergent, water

Care of Unprotected Metal Surfaces

3. Keep free of rust
4. Oil metal surface lightly
5. Do not paint metal surfaces
6. Inspect metal for chips, cracks, sharp edges; file off when
found

Care of Axe Heads

7. How well maintained directly affects performance
8. DO NOT PAINT
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF
F O R C I B L E E N T RY
Care of Power Equipment
1. Read, follow manufacturers’
instructions
2. Be sure battery packs fully charged
3. Inspect periodically; ensure will start
manually
4. Check blades for damage, wear
5. Replace damaged, worn blades
6. Check electrical components for cuts,
other damage
7. Ensure all guards functional, in place
8. Ensure fuel is fresh; mixture may
separate, degrade over time
GROUND LADDERS
– one of the basic and effective tools for rescue
function in the fire ground is the ground
ladder. It can also be used for many functions
when called upon. One of the basic functions
is to gain access to elevated areas of the
building.
GROUND
LADDERS
BASIC PARTS OF A LADDER
• Beam – main structural member of a
ladder supporting the rungs or rung
blocks
• Bed section (base section) – lowest or
widest section of an extension ladder;
this section always maintains contact
with the ground or other supporting
surface
• Butt (heel) – bottom end of the ladder;
the end that is placed on the ground or
other supporting surface when the ladder
is raised
GROUND
LADDERS

BASIC PARTS OF A LADDER

• Butt spurs – metal safety plates or
spikes attached to the butt end of ground
ladder beams to prevent slippage
• Fly – upper section(s) of extension or
some combination ladders
• Footpads – rubber or neoprene foot
plates usually by the swivel type,
attached to the butt of a ladder
GROUND
LADDERS
BASIC PARTS OF A LADDER
• Guides – wood or metal strips,
sometimes in the form of slots or
channels, on an extension ladder that
guide the fly section while being raised
• Halyard – rope or cable used for hoisting
and lowering the fly sections of an
extension ladder; also called fly rope
• Heat Sensor Label – label affixed to the
inside of each beam of each ladder
section; a color change indicates that the
ladder has been exposed to a sufficient
degree of heat that it should be tested
before further use
GROUND
LADDERS
BASIC PARTS OF A LADDER
• Hooks – curved metal devices installed
on the tip end of roof ladders to secure
the ladder to the highest point on the roof
of a building
• Pawls (dogs/locks) – devices attached
to the inside of the beams on the fly
sections used to hold the fly section in
place after in has been extended
• Protection plates – strips of metal
attached to the ladders at chafing points,
such as the tip, or areas where it comes
in contact with the apparatus mounting
brackets
GROUND
LADDERS
BASIC PARTS OF A LADDER
• Pulley – small, grooved wheel through
which the halyard is drawn on an
extension ladder
• Rails – the two lengthwise members of a
trussed ladder beam that are separated
by truss or separation blocks
• Rungs – cross members that provide the
foothold for climbing; the rungs extend
from one beam to the other except on a
pompier ladder
GROUND
LADDERS
BASIC PARTS OF A LADDER
• Stops – wood or metal pieces that prevents the fly section from
being extended too far

• Tie rods – metal rods running from one beam to the other
• Tip (top) – extreme top of a ladder
• Truss block – separation pieces between the rails of a trussed
ladder; sometimes used to support rungs
GROUND
LADDERS
BASIC PARTS OF A LADDER
• Stops – wood or metal pieces that prevents the fly section from
being extended too far

• Tie rods – metal rods running from one beam to the other
• Tip (top) – extreme top of a ladder
• Truss block – separation pieces between the rails of a trussed
ladder; sometimes used to support rungs
GROUND
LADDERS

TYPES OF A LADDER
• Single (Wall/Straight) Ladders
– non-adjustable in length and
consist of only one section
– Lengths vary from 6 to 32 feet
(2 m to 10 m) with the more
common lengths ranging from
12 to 20 feet
GROUND
LADDERS
TYPES OF A LADDER
• Roof ladders
– single ladders equipped at the tip
with folding hooks and provide a
means of anchoring the ladder over
the roof ridge or other roof part
– easy accessing the window and
provide hook and safety steps in
working on the roof.
– lengths range from 12 to 24 feet (4 m
to 8 m)
GROUND
LADDERS

TYPES OF A LADDER
• Folding (Collapsible) Ladders
– single ladders that have hinged
rungs allowing them to be folded so
that one beam rests against the other
– commonly found in lengths from 8 to
16 feet (2.5 m to 5 m) with the most
common being 10 feet (3 m)
GROUND
LADDERS

TYPES OF A LADDER
• Extension Ladders
– adjustable in length
– consists of a base or bed section and
one or more fly sections that travel in
guides or brackets to permit length
adjustment
– generally, range in length from 12 to
39 feet (4 m to 11.5 m)
GROUND
LADDERS

TYPES OF A LADDER
• Combination Ladders
– designed so that they may be used
as a self-supported stepladder (A-
frame) and as a single or extension
ladder
– range from 8 to 14 feet (2.5 m to 4.3
m) with the most popular being the
10-foot (3 m) model
GROUND
LADDERS

TYPES OF A LADDER
• Pompier Ladder
– used to climb from floor
to floor, via exterior
windows, on a multistory
building
– Lengths vary from 10 to
16 feet (3 m to 5 m)
GROUND
LADDERS

LADDER INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE

a. Keep ground ladders free of moisture
b. Do not store or rest ladders in a position where they are
subjected to exhaust or engine heat
c. Do not store ladders in an area where they are exposed to
the elements
d. Do not paint ladders except for the top and bottom 12
inches of the beams for purposes of identification or
visibility
GROUND
LADDERS
LADDER SAFETY
a. Always wear protective gear, including gloves, when
working with ladders.
b. Choose the proper ladder for the job.
c. Use leg muscles, not back or arm muscles, when lifting
ladders below the waist.
d. Use the proper number of firefighters for each raise.
e. Make sure that ladders are not raised into electrical wires.
f. Check the ladder for the proper angle.
GROUND
LADDERS
LADDER SAFETY
g. Check the pawls to be sure that they are seated over the
rungs.
h. Make sure that the ladder is secure at the top or bottom
before climbing.
i. Climb smoothly and rhythmically.
j. Do not overload the ladder.
GROUND
LADDERS
LADDER SAFETY
g. Check the pawls to be sure
that they are seated over the
rungs.
h. Make sure that the ladder is
secure at the top or bottom
before climbing.
i. Climb smoothly and
rhythmically.
j. Do not overload the ladder.
GROUND
LADDERS
LADDER CARRIES
• One-firefighter Low-shoulder Carry
GROUND
LADDERS
LADDER CARRIES
• Two-Firefighter Low-Shoulder Carry
GROUND
LADDERS
LADDER CARRIES
• Three-Firefighter Flat-Shoulder Carry
GROUND
LADDERS
LADDER CARRIES
• Four-Firefighter Flat-Shoulder Carry
GROUND
LADDERS
LADDER CARRIES
• Two-Firefighter Arm’s Length On-Edge Carry
GROUND
LADDERS

POSITIONING (PLACEMENT) OF LADDERS

a. If a ladder is to provide a vantage point from which a firefighter
can break a window for ventilation, it should be placed
alongside the window to the windward (upwind) side.
b. If a ladder is to be used for entry or rescue from a window,
usually the ladder tip is placed slightly below the sill.
c. When a ladder is used as a vantage point from which to direct
a hose stream into a window opening and no entry is made, it
is raised directly in front of the window with the tip on the wall
above the window opening.
GROUND
LADDERS

POSITIONING (PLACEMENT) OF LADDERS

d. Avoid placing ladders over openings such as windows and
doors.
e. Raise the ladder directly in front of the window when a ladder
is to be used as a support for a smoke fan.
f. Avoid placing ladders where they may come into contact with
overhead obstructions such as wires, tree limbs, or signs.
g. Avoid placing ladders on uneven terrain or on soft spots.
GROUND
LADDERS

POSITIONING (PLACEMENT) OF LADDERS

h. Avoid placing ladders on main paths of travel that firefighters
or evacuees will need to use.
i. Avoid placing ladders where they may contact either burning
surfaces or openings with flames present.
j. Do not place ladders against unstable walls or surfaces.
k. When the ladder has been raised and lowered into place, the
desired angle of inclination is approximately 75 O.
GROUND
LADDERS
LADDER RAISES
• One-Firefighter Raises
– One-Firefighter Single Ladder Raises
– One-Firefighter Extension Ladder Raises
GROUND
LADDERS
LADDER RAISES
• Two-Firefighter Raises
• Three-Firefighter Flat Raise
• Four-Firefighter Flat Raise