Not every structure fire occurs on level ground. While the majority of structure fire training occurs at facilities where the ground is level, providing access to all four sides of the structure, this is not always reflective of real-world conditions.
In some response districts, residential structures are built on hillsides or amid mountainous terrain, such as in today’s corresponding video, in which a residential structure fire is underway on the side of a steep hill.
Challenge #1: Visibility and initial assessment
When working a fire with this kind of topography, the first challenge is the lack of ability to see all four sides or complete a 360 walk-around. With a steep incline leading away from the structure, the first-arriving officer will not be able to walk around the structure completely; they may only be able to see two or three sides of the building.
For fires that occur at night, first-arriving crews may or may not notice the difference in topography. This could present a challenge to the first-arriving officer, as they may start to walk around the structure and then slip or fall down the embankment.
Challenge #2: Structure access
Another challenge is the ability to access all four sides of the structure. With a steep incline, driving or placing apparatus near the structure may not be possible. Access roads may assist with getting some apparatus behind the structure for logistical and tactical support, but if there are no roads or pathways, then the only access will be on foot.
Trying to get equipment and firefighters around the rear of the structure may prove to be challenging. In some situations, the incline may require low-angle rope support to lower equipment and personnel down, as well as bring them back up.
Additionally, the lack of access could mean fire crews need to do most of the work on one or two sides only.
Challenge #3: The risk of structural collapse
Another factor to consider is the increased collapse potential with the rear of the structure on a steep embankment. In the video, you will notice the rear deck is supported by very tall posts. This added height increases the potential for collapse of the deck along with the rear of the structure, as the building is not supported as much by the foundation in the rear as it is in the front.
Training time
Residential structure fires occur at all types of buildings and amid diverse topography surrounding the structures. It’s important for crews to learn to adapt accordingly.
After discussing this video and analysis, your department should:
- Discuss how you would approach this type of structure fire with the department’s current accessible resources.
- Determine what special training may be needed for crews to deal with structure fires that sit on steep inclines.
