Core Skill or "Optional Extra"?

Throughout the world there is agreement that firefighting is a potentially dangerous occupation. Yet in some parts of the world, firefighters are expected to carry out firefighting operations in life threatening emergency situations without ever having the opportunity to observe the development of a compartment fire, in a safe, low stress environment.

It has long been realised by the military that a soldier has to operate in a wide range of extremely hostile environments. These can range from jungle, alpine, desert, swamp terrain, etc. If they are to operate effectively in these environments then they must not only have a sound theoretical understanding of what to expect and how to survive, but they must be exposed to these environments and carry out realistic training exercises. The end result of live, realistic training is not only an increase in efficiency, but a reduction in battle field casualties.

The firefighter is also required to carry out his duties in very hostile environments. The environment in a typical structural fire can suddenly change from what appears to be relatively stable to an inferno with temperatures over 1000 degrees Celsius at ceiling height and over 300 degrees Celsius at floor level. While sudden, such changes can be anticipated if the indicators are recognised. Unless the firefighter is able to "read" the signals that the fire is sending, he or she could become a victim instead of a rescuer. Therefore it is essential that the firefighter has a solid understanding of the fundamentals of fire behaviour in compartments. This can only be achieved by allowing the firefighter the opportunity to witness the development phases of a fire in a realistic, safe, controlled and predictable environment. The firefighter can then see the results of the different firefighting techniques on the dynamics of the environment. This leads to an understanding of the implications of their actions not only on the fire, but also entrapped occupants, other firefighters, and possible effects on fire spread to surrounding areas. Then it is possible to obtain full benefit from the next phase of "Realistic Training", ie Tactical Live Fire Training.

I would say that amounts to a core skill that should be taught and maintained for every firefighter (paid or volunteer) that is asked to confront the dangers of structural firefighting. Is that too much to ask?

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