JAIL FIRE SAFETY

A Training Guide for Corrections Officers

Wisconsin Department of Justice Law Enforcement Standards Board December, 2007

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JAIL FIRE SAFETY

Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................... 1
Overview: Jail Fire Issues ......................................................................... 2 Components of Smoke......................................................................... 2 Fire behavior / Chemistry ..................................................................... 3 Role of Jail Officer ..................................................................................... 4

CONTROL IGNITION AND FUEL SOURCES........................................... 6

Control Ignition .......................................................................................... 6 Control Fuel Sources................................................................................. 8

DETECT POSSIBLE FIRES / RESPOND TO ALARM ........................... 11

Fire Detection Equipment........................................................................ 12 Smoke Detectors................................................................................ 12 Heat Detectors .................................................................................. 13 Automatic Sprinkler Systems ............................................................ 14 Response to Alarms ................................................................................ 15

SUPPRESS FIRES.................................................................................. 17
Use Portable Extinguishers ..................................................................... 17 Know Location of Extinguishers .......................................................... 18 Use Extinguishers ............................................................................... 18 Inspect Extinguishers .......................................................................... 19 Use Standpipe and Hose Systems.......................................................... 20

USE SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS............................ 23

Review: Components of Smoke .............................................................. 23 General Guidelines on Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus .................. 24 Tank Exchange Guidelines ..................................................................... 25 Conduct a Pre-Don Check ...................................................................... 26 Don SCBA Unit........................................................................................ 26

CONDUCT SEARCH AND RESCUE / EVACUATE INMATES............... 29

Unlock Cell and Cellblock Doors ............................................................. 29 Search for Inmates, if Necessary ............................................................ 30 Rescue Inmates ...................................................................................... 31 Evacuate Inmates.................................................................................... 32

INITIATE FOLLOW-THROUGH PROCEDURES .................................... 34

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Grateful appreciation for hard work on preparation of the curriculum for Wisconsins basic jail officer training program is extended to the members of the Department of Justices Jail Officer Training Advisory Committee. Members (as of spring, 2006), include:
Todd Ashworth, Assistant Superintendent Barbara Barrington-Tillman, Jail Administrator Randy Bellisle, Deputy Steve Borroughs, Jail Administrator Steve Coronado, Jail Administrator Doris Daggett, Jail Administrator Karen Humphrey, Jail Administrator Barb Jascor, Corrections Instructor Peter Jaskulski, Training Academy Director Jim Kroncke Charlie Law, Chief Deputy Bob Lee Scott Morris, Detention Facilities Specialist Elizabeth Paape, Associate Dean Eric Runaas, Sheriff Mike Schmitz, Jail Administrator Dennis Smith, Sheriff Phil Steffen, Lieutenant Kenneth Wilcox Milwaukee County House of Correction, retired Rock County Sheriffs Department Dane County Sheriffs Department Shawano County Sheriffs Department Juneau County Sheriffs Department LaCrosse County Sheriffs Department St. Croix County Sheriffs Department Mid-State technical College Milwaukee County Sheriffs Department Outagamie County Sheriffs Department, retired Douglas County Sheriffs Department Wisconsin Sheriffs & Deputy Sheriffs Assn. WI Department of Corrections Northeast WI Technical College Rock County Sheriffs Department Walworth County Sheriffs Department Dunn County Sheriffs Department Brown County Sheriffs Department Milwaukee County Sheriffs Department, retired

Former Members: Arden Geisler Tim Leatherbury Greg Lieberg Tom Luther Lee Robarge

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INTRODUCTION
Of all the difficult situations you may have to deal with when working in a jail, the prospect of a fire is one of the worst. In a jail, fires range from small, easilycontrolled fires in wastebaskets or other small areas to large, fast-spreading, potentially-deadly fires in which there is thick smoke, zero visibility, and the presence of toxic gases. Serious fires in jails are less-common than they used to be, due primarily to more sophisticated construction materials, more fire-retardant supplies such as mattresses, modern sprinkler systems, and the fact that most jails are smoke-free facilities. Even so, fires are always a possibility and therefore it is important to be prepared for such emergencies if they occur. The key issues in an overall jail fire safety program include: Ignition control. This refers to control of the ability of peopleprimarily inmatesto ignite (start) fires. This includes controlling access of inmates to matches, lighters and other means of ignition; Fuel control. This refers to control of items that can be burned, including not only paper products and other things that can be easily burned, but also clothing, linen, mattresses, and so on; Detection and suppression. This refers to a system or systems for detecting fires in the facility, and for putting out (suppressing) such fires once detected; Occupant protection. This refers to a comprehensive system and procedures for protecting people in the buildingstaff, inmates, and others. It involves having a good evacuation plan, including workable evacuation routes and a place to which inmates and others are taken after evacuation; Training and planning. Planning refers to developing and implementing a comprehensive fire safety plan, in regard to all of the above issues. This is to be done in coordination with local fire department officials, since they will be the ones to respond to a serious fire in the jail. Training refers to a wellplanned and ongoing program for training staff members in all key aspects of the jails fire safety plan and on skills necessary to carry out al aspects of that plan.

There have been several multiple-fatality jail fires in the United States. It is instructive to know what, if any, common elements existed to cause such tremendous loss. Analysis of three such fires several years ago indicated that there were several common elements in the multiple-fatality fires in the correctional institutions analyzed (two prisons and one county jail):
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The fires were incendiary in nature, meaning that they were set by inmates. Thus, there were failures in ignition control; The fatalities occurred largely because material was ignited which caused heavy smoke and release of toxic gases. Such materials included padding materials in padded cells and combustible interior finishes. Thus, there were failures of fuel control; In at least one of the fires, there was no automatic or manual fire alarm system nor any automatic fire suppression system. Thus, there was a failure in regard to detection and suppression; Because inmates could not be safely evacuated from the danger areas quickly enough, there were failures in occupant protection; and Finally, there were failures in regard to training and planning in at least two of these fires. There had simply not been enough attention paid to the possibility of a serious fire, and what should happen in the event of such a fire.

These examples illustrate some of the bad things that can happen in jail fires, and the possible causes of those bad things happening.

OVERVIEW: JAIL FIRE ISSUES

In order to appreciate the seriousness of fires in a jail setting, it is necessary to have a basic understanding of two key issues: the components of smoke, and fire behavior/chemistry.

COMPONENTS OF SMOKE Smoke is the greatest danger in a fire. Smoke is a visible product which indicates that incomplete combustion (burning) has taken place. Smoke contains a mixture of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon monoxide (most dangerous chemical), carbon dioxide and other chemical compounds. One of the key problems caused by smoke is that it reduces visibility, sometimes to zero or near-zero. This typically results in disorientation and panic. Exposure to smoke is potentially quite dangerous. Inhalation of smoke can result in the following:

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Death, if there is significant enough smoke inhalation; Short-term health problems, such as the need for medical treatment to provide oxygen and/or to remove carbon monoxide and other gases from the bloodstream; and Long-term health problems, such as cancer, respiratory illnesses, and other terminal illnesses associated with exposure to toxic atmospheres.

FIRE BEHAVIOR / CHEMISTRY Fire is sometimes described as a triangle, the three sides of which are heat, fuel and oxygen: Heat Fuel

Oxygen The combination, or interaction, of these three components results in a chemical reaction which causes a fire to burn. All three of these elements must be present for combustion to occur. When a fuel is burned, there are at least six products: fire gases, toxic gases, smoke, heat, flame, and oxygen deficiency. You've already learned about smoke. Fire gases typically include carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, which is a deadly gas. Heat is responsible for the spread of any fire. Heat causes burns, heat exhaustion, dehydration, and damage to the respiratory system.

There are two very serious potential problems which can occur as a result of fire behavior/chemistry: backdraft and flashover. Backdraft, or smoke explosion, occurs when there is a sudden rush of oxygen into a confined area that is in the smoldering stage of fire. This sudden rush of oxygen rapidly fuels the fire, causing a violent explosion. Some of the more common indicators of backdraft include: smoke under pressure; black smoke becoming dense gray and yellow; confinement and excessive heat;

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little or no visible flame; smoke leaves the building in puffs or intervals; smoke-stained windows; muffled sounds; sudden rapid movement of air inward when an opening is made. Flashover occurs during the free-burning stage of fire when a room or other area becomes heated to the point where flames flash over the entire surface or area. This causes extreme heat conditions, which can cause death or serious injury. Both backdraft and flashover are potential dangers in any major jail fire. It is important to know about them so that proper action can be taken to avoid the likelihood of being endangered by their occurrence. In this module, you will learn about such proper action.

ROLE OF JAIL OFFICER

As a jail officer, it is important that you know about preventing fires and, if a fire occurs, properly responding to it. Remember that you will respond to a fire emergency in the jail, in your role as a "first responder," according to the same basic sequence of steps as you would respond to any other type of correctional emergency. According to the FIRST RESPONDER PHILOSOPHY, that sequence includes the following steps: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Arrive Assess Alarm Evaluate Enter Stabilize Initial medical assessment Long-term monitoring Communication Documentation/debriefing.

As you know, the specific application of these basic steps varies according to the type of correctional "emergency." In this module, you will learn application of the steps specifically in regard to fire emergencies. Your ability to successfully deal with a fire emergency in the jail, as a first

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responder, is dependent upon two basic things: 1. Your thorough understanding and familiarity with the fire safety plans of your own jail, including such things as: Policies and procedures on control of ignition and fuel sources; Location and use of fire detection equipment; Procedure for responding to a fire alarm; Availability and proper use of fire suppression equipment; Availability and proper use of auxiliary breathing equipment; Use of the locking and unlocking systems, under the worst possible conditions; Decision-making authority as to evacuation of inmates; and Knowledge of exits, evacuation routes, and so on.

2.

Your mastery of generic fire safety skills, particularly in regard to: Proper use of fire extinguishers; Use of standpipes and hoses (if applicable in your jail); Ability to don and properly use self-contained breathing apparatus; and Ability to search for and rescue inmates from smoke-filled environments.

This module includes information on these generic fire safety skills, as well as on general information in regard to such areas as: Ignition and fuel control; Fire detection equipment; Fire suppression equipment; and Elements of inmate evacuation.

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CONTROL IGNITION AND FUEL SOURCES

Two key factors in the overall jail fire safety program involve ignition control and fuel control. These both involve measures taken to minimize the likelihood of fires starting in the first place.

CONTROL IGNITION
Ignition control is defined as "the concept of eliminating uncontrolled heat sources so that a fire cannot be ignited either accidentally or intentionally." There are two critical elements in controlling ignition in a jail: controlling smoking materials and controlling electrical ignition sources. That is, most fires in jails occur because they were ignited either by misuse of smoking materials or through electric sources, such as overheated electrical equipment. Control of smoking materials is the most critical factor. A majority of all jail and prison fires are incendiary, meaning that they were started with open flame ignition sources such as matches or cigarette lighters. Control of smoking materials is, of course, very difficult. Most or all jails no longer allow inmates to smoke, but that does not mean that inmates do not have access to matches. In some jails that no longer allow smoking, cigarettes have become a major contraband item. There are several key guidelines to consider: Never allow inmates to have matches or lighters in their possession while inside the jail. Such items should be considered contraband, the possession of which is a rules violation for which they can be punished. Huber or work release inmates may have matches or lighters to use when they are out of the jail, but such items must be kept in their property lockers when the inmates are in the jail. This requires jail staff to be vigilant and careful in regard to security procedures with Huber or work release inmates, including searching them when they return to jail and searching their living areas regularly. Some Huber or work release inmates will try to bring matches or lighters into the jail for other inmates, particularly for inmates who are not allowed to leave the jail. They may do so by trying to sneak such items in, or by hiding items in a place where other inmates can get themsuch as a trash container that inmate workers have access to. Inmate workers are commonly used to transport contraband items.

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Be aware - particularly if your jail does not allow smoking - of new and innovative ways which inmates use to light cigarettes, and try to control these ignition sources. Some of these methods include: Inserting lead pencils or wires into electrical outlets to create a spark; Using television wires, by peeling the rubber coating off a wire and touching such items as paper clips or staples or a fork, etc., to the metal wire to create a spark; Using eyeglasses or magnifiers, if they have access to sunlight; Misusing electrical appliances such as toasters, coffee pots, etc.

Control of electrical ignition sources is the other major element of ignition control. Here are some general guidelines: Be aware that all appliances should be installed and operated according to local codes. If you are aware of code violations, report them.

Limit the use of electrical extension cords, and routinely check any such cords for possible damage. The more extension cords in use, the greater the possibility of accidental ignition. When extension cords are used, check them carefully for exposed wires, cuts or frays, or loose plug ends. Keep cords in good repair. If extension cords are used, no more than one cord may be run from a single outlet, according to state Administrative Code requirements in ILHR 190.06(5).

Limit the use of electrical appliances in inmate living areas. If inmates are allowed to use personal electrical equipment, such as televisions or radios, check to be sure that the equipment is in decent shape. Check the cord connection to be sure that it has not been tampered with.

When appliances are used, be sure that circuits are not overloaded, in order to reduce the chances of overheated electrical equipment and short circuits.

Additionally, an overall factor in ignition control has to do with staff supervision of

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inmates. Inmates sometimes set fires because of problems which they perceive, or complaints which they have but which they feel have not been properly handled. The way that staff members interact with inmates can affect the attitudes and behavior of inmates, for better or worse, and therefore can be a factor in inmate fire-setting behavior. A jail climate which is characterized by fairness and consistency among staff members, and in which inmates feel safe and secure, is less conducive to inappropriate behavior of all sorts, including fire-setting behavior. A basic concept of Correctional Professional Communication Skills is that when staff members take the time to talk to inmates and listen to them, respectfully, there are usually fewer problems. The availability of an adequate inmate grievance mechanism is also important, so that inmates feel they have a legitimate way to present grievances and complaints and have them considered. When inmates do not feel they have such a mechanism, again they are more likely to act out their frustrations in inappropriate ways, such as setting fires.

CONTROL FUEL SOURCES

Fuel control is defined as "the concept of controlling the type, arrangement and burning characteristics of potential fuel." Fuel control was a major problem in many of the major fires that have occurred in jails and prisons, in regard to one or another of the following types of fuels: contents or furnishings, building materials, or interior finish. The main problems in regard to fuel sources are in regard to such materials as: Mattresses, which are made of synthetic materials which, when ignited, produce thick, heavy smoke and toxic gases (though modern mattresses are much more fire-retardant than older ones); Clothing; Paper products, such as books, magazines and newspapers; Paint, cleaning solvents, pest control supplies, and similar flammable liquids; and Wooden or plastic furniture.

Here are some guidelines to follow in regard to fuel control: Check cells, cellblocks, pods, dorm areas and other inmate living

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areas regularly to be sure that inmates don't have too many magazines, books, newspapers or similar burnable materials accumulated. It's best to have a uniform policy which indicates the specific number of books, magazines, and so on, which an inmate may have in his or her possession. Specifically, be aware of your facility's policies regarding amounts of legal materials allowed in cells or rooms.

Similarly, limit the amount of other combustible materials in cells, cellblocks, pods, dorms, or other inmate living areas. Such materials could include clothing and other personal objects. It could also include such things as games and puzzles, which can be set on fire. This is particularly true with inmates who have a history of fire-setting behavior, or who may be mentally unstable. Also, be aware that inmates have used rolled-up toilet paper as a fuel source.

Check mattresses and pillows regularly for tears, cuts, and other damage or tampering. Repair or replace damaged items. Sometimes, it's easier for such an item to be ignited if it is torn or damaged.

Check electrical outlets for indications of scorching, blackening, etc., which could indicate that inmates have misused the outlets.

Strictly control all combustible liquids. This includes most cleaning supplies, pest and vermin control supplies, paint, varnish, lacquers, etc. The best practice is not to store combustible liquids in the jail. Instead, such liquids should be stored in a special room, with air exchange, outside of the secure area of the jail. They should not be stored in a janitor's closet, etc. If these materials are used in the jail, be sure that they are securely stored when not in use, in an area where inmate workers do not have access to them. Be sure that they are tightly covered when stored. When such materials are in use, supervise to be sure that they are not misused. This is particularly important when inmate workers are allowed to use cleaning supplies or pest control materials.

It is best to not allow inmates to have in their possession any type of spray can, such as spray deodorant or hair spray. This is because the chemical propellant in such case in combustible. When the spray is ignited,

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it can create a torch-like effect. Needless to say, this is a significant fire hazard. Also, the material from spray cans gets into smoke detectors and can set them off. Another problem is that the spray leaves residue in smoke detectors, which can cause a maintenance problem. Be aware of and follow your jail's policies and procedures on allowing inmates to have spray cans in their possession.

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DETECT POSSIBLE FIRES / RESPOND TO ALARM

Detection of fires is a critical element in a jail fire protection system. The main equipment components of a fire detection system include: Smoke detectors; Heat detectors (thermal detectors); Sprinkler systems (which are also suppression devices). However, equipment is a secondary element in detection. The MAIN element is the alert, vigilant officer himself or herself.

State Administrative Code, under DOC 350.10(1) - the state jail standards regarding adult inmates - addresses fire safety equipment: "Each jail shall have and shall properly maintain fire alarms, smoke and thermal detectors, fire extinguishers, fire attack equipment and self-contained breathing apparatuses which operate for at least 30 minutes. This equipment shall be placed in the jail in accordance with the advice of the local fire department." The term "fire attack equipment" can include sprinklers, standpipe and hoses (though rare in newer jails), and so on. The Code is not specific in that regard. As a line officer, your role in regard to fire detection equipment is to: Be aware of the location of all such equipment, and the basic operational aspects of the equipment; Be sure that the equipment is in good working order, and that you are aware of obvious signs of tampering and damage; Know exactly what to do once a fire is detected, in terms of notification of authorities, fire suppression, search and rescue, evacuation, and so on. Each of these elements should be specifically addressed in your jail's fire safety plan, or your policies and procedures. It is critically important that you are thoroughly familiar with and follow this plan or policies and procedures in order to do your job as a first responder properly.

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FIRE DETECTION EQUIPMENT

Following is some general information on fire detection equipment, and some general guidelines to follow:

SMOKE DETECTORS These devices respond to both visible and invisible products of combustion. This type of detection device is more common in jails than heat detectors, because it can detect smoldering mattress fires, which is one of the biggest dangers. There are two basic types: Photoelectric smoke detectors operate on the principle that smoke entering a light beam either obscures the beam's path or reflects light into a photocell, thus setting off an alarm. Ionization smoke detectors contain a small ionization chamber in which air is made electrically conducive by alpha particles emitted by a small amount of radioactive material. A voltage applied across the ionization chamber causes a small electrical current to flow as the ions travel to the electrode of opposite polarity. When combustion particles in smoke enter the ionization chamber, they interrupt the small current between the two electrodes. The reduced current flow increases the voltage on the electrodes, which at a certain level results in an alarm. The location and spacing of smoke or heat detectors is critical. Hopefully, such location and spacing will be done carefully and with professional expertise in each jail.

Following are some general guidelines to follow in regard to such equipment: Someone in the jail should be trained and assigned to routinely check all smoke detectors to be sure that they are operating properly. All such checks, and the results, should be documented and a file should be maintained. A complete copy of such a file should also be maintained outside of the jail so that if there is a serious fire it will not be destroyed. In many jails, an outside contractor does the actual testing of smoke detectors. Even in such cases, however, jail staff may have responsibility for ensuring maintenance of proper records.

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Today, 95% of smoke detectors are electrical, not battery-operated. If your jail still uses battery-operated detectors, someone on staff should have the specific responsibility of replacing the batteries in all smoke detectors at regular intervals - at least twice a year. The replacement of batteries in each detector should be carefully documented, and a file maintained.

Check for indications of malfunctions to smoke detectors, as applicable in your jail. Such indicators may include a red light on the detector itself, or an indicator on a computer or on a master control board.

Assume that if inmates have physical access to detectors, they will play with them or attempt to vandalize them. Thus, supervise inmates to try to ensure that they do not damage or tamper with smoke detectors. If any damage or tampering occurs, document that. Be sure that the matter comes to the attention of a supervisor. If an inmate tampers with a smoke detector or sets one off deliberately, he or she may be charged with a criminal violation, according to provisions of s.941.12 or s.941.13, Wis. Stats. S.941.12(1) states: "Whoever intentionally interferes with the proper functioning of a fire alarm system or the lawful efforts of fire fighters to extinguish a fire is guilty of a Class I felony." S.941.13 states: "Whoever intentionally gives a false alarm to any public officer or employee, whether by means of a fire alarm system or otherwise, is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor."

HEAT DETECTORS There are two basic types of heat detectors: Fixed-temperature heat detectors usually involve thermostats made of two metals bonded together. Because these metals expand at different rates, the bimetallic strip or disk will bend when heated, causing a movement which results in closing an electrical contact. This completes the circuit which activates an alarm for the detection system. Rate-of-rise heat detectors sound an alarm when the rate of temperature increase at the operating element exceeds a stated rate - generally 15 degrees F. per minute. Additionally, some heat detectors combine these two principles.

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As noted, heat detectors are less-common in jails than smoke detectors, mostly because the main danger in jail fires is smoke and toxic gases. If your jail has heat detectors, know the location of each detector and, as with smoke detectors, be sure that they are not tampered with by inmates. These items should, of course, also be inspected and maintained regularly. As an officer, you may have a role in that regard. Again, documentation of any problems, malfunctions, and maintenance of detectors is critical.

AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS Sprinkler systems are combined detection and suppression systems. Such systems are common in jails that have been constructed in recent years. Automatic sprinkler protection consists of a series of devices so arranged that the system will automatically distribute sufficient quantities of water to either extinguish a fire or at least to hold it in check until firefighters arrive. The sprinkler heads discharge water after the release of a cap or plug which is activated by some heatresponsive element. One advantage of such systems is that, because they are automatic, there is less dependence on the human response factor during the first few critical moments of a fire. Such systems are advantageous for two other reasons as well: Occupants are less-likely to panic in their attempts to evacuate the area when sprinklers are in use; and There is a better chance for firefighters to begin rescue and extinguishment operations and, thus, to save occupants. A potential danger with automatic sprinkler systems is that they can be vandalized by inmates. Thus, it is very important to carefully supervise inmates to try to prevent their vandalizing or activating the equipment - if the sprinkler pipes are accessible to them. It's also important to check the equipment at regular intervals. Remember that state law, under s.941.12(1) Wis. Stats., provides criminal penalties for such tampering or vandalism. When activated, sprinkler systems also sound an alarm, and are thus both detection and suppression devices.

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As an officer, you should know the following about the sprinkler system in your jail (if there is such a system): Whether the system is "wet" or "dry", because that affects the rapidity of the water activation; That 15-40 gallons of water per minute will come out of a sprinkler system when it is activated; Where the shutoff valves are located and who can authorize shutoff of the system. Knowing this will save water when the system activates, and may prevent having to move a lot of inmates in the event of water accumulation.

RESPONSE TO ALARMS
When a fire is detected, an immediate decision must be made as to how to try to suppress it and whether or not to move inmates out of the area. Another decision that must be made is whether or not to call in the local fire department. That decision will vary, depending upon your particular facility. In some facilities, the fire department is automatically notified whenever an alarm is activated, such as through a smoke detector or sprinkler system. They then come to the jail each time. In other facilities, the fire department must be notified by phone to come. This may be the responsibility of a dispatcher or a line officer or a supervisor or some other person, depending upon the policies and procedures of that facility. Sometimes it is a judgement call as to whether or not the firefighters should be notified. That would depend on an officer's assessment of the seriousness of the situation. In making this decision, you would be following Step 2 of the First Responder Philosophy, which is ASSESS. Your assessment will be based on your best judgement, as well as any policies in place at your jail. In general, it is usually reasonable to call the fire department. Calling the fire department is one aspect of Step 3 in the First Responder Philosophy, which is ALARM. After you have ARRIVED on the scene of a fire and ASSESSED the situation, you will give an alarm. Certainly you will notify other jail staff members, by radio or other mode of communication. Then, as dictated by assessment, the fire department may be called. There is no policy or guideline that is correct for every jail facility in every case as to the issue of whether or when to call in the firefighters. However, it is absolutely critical that all jail staff members know and follow the individual plan, or

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policies and procedures, for their particular jail. In that regard, all jail staff members should know the answers to the following questions: When a fire is detected in your facility, is the local fire department automatically notified, through an electronic tie-in to the detection equipment in the jail? If not, how is the fire department notified of a jail fire? What is the specific mechanism? (Special telephone? Alarm button? Etc.) Who in the jail has the authority to notify the fire department? Does it have to be a supervisor? Do all line officers have this authority? Are there any written criteria as to how the decision is made to call or not call the fire department? In any case, whether or not your jail has specific written guidelines on fire safety, a general guideline is that the fire department should be called if you smell gas or suspect a gas leak or if there are any suspected chemical reactions, noxious fumes, poisonous gases, etc. When calling the fire department, it is generally important to give certain basic information, including: location of the fire; primary and secondary entrance routes to the jail; type of alarm which alerted you to the fire (examples: visual sighting of fire, sprinkler alarm, smoke or heat detector, etc.); actions being taken or needed (examples: suppression, rescue, evacuation, etc.).

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SUPPRESS FIRES
As soon as a fire is detected in the jail, an alarm must be activated. An alarm may be activated either automatically, as through a sprinkler system alarm or detector alarm, or manually. Generally speaking, an automatic alarm is better because it minimizes the potential for human error and it is faster. Automatic alarms provide a greater margin of safety. Remember that giving an ALARM is the third step in your role as a first responder, under the FIRST RESPONDER PHILOSOPHY. The first two steps are ARRIVE and ASSESS. As noted, it is critical that all staff members know exactly what to do when a fire alarm sounds. Following notification of the fire department, or simultaneous to such notification, fire suppression must begin. As noted, automatic sprinkler systems are one effective form of fire suppression. Two other techniques of suppression are portable extinguishers and standpipe and hose systems.

USE PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

Portable fire extinguishers are the first line of defense against fires. These can be thought of as first-aid fire extinguishing equipment, the effectiveness of which depends upon two critical factors: the availability of the appropriate portable extinguisher, and the availability of people who know how to use the equipment. There are various classifications of fire extinguishers, based on their capacity to extinguish different kinds of fires. For classification purposes, fires are generally divided into four types: Class A: Fires involving ordinary combustible materials such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber and many plastics; Fires involving petroleum products: flammable or combustible liquids such as oils, greases, tars, oil base paint, lacquers, and combustible gases;

Class B:

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Class C:

Fires involving energized electrical equipment where there is a shock hazard; and

Fires involving combustible materials such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium, sodium, lithium, and potassium. The chemicals in the various types of extinguishers are different, so as to most effectively fight a particular class of fire. The most common portable extinguishers in many jails are ABC extinguishers, which contain dry chemicals and are effective in suppressing fires of classification A (common combustibles), B (petroleum products), or C (electrical equipment). In any case, it isn't your job to decide which type of extinguisher your jail has. Your job is to: Know the location of all extinguishers; Know how to use extinguishers; If you have various types of extinguishers, know which ones to use on particular kinds of fires; and Know how to make a basic inspection of extinguishers to be sure they work.

Class D:

KNOW THE LOCATION OF EXTINGUISHERS When a fire starts, there is no time for you to search for an extinguisher. You MUST know exactly where each extinguisher is in your jail, and must be able to get to it immediately. Therefore, be sure that you are 100% familiar with the location of all extinguishers in your jail, and that you know which ones should be used for fires in particular locations.

USE EXTINGUISHERS You must be familiar with the specific operating instructions of the extinguishers in your jail. Read the directions beforehand. Three basic guidelines are: 1. 2. Carry the extinguisher to the fire in an upright position. Do not activate the extinguisher until you are close enough to the fire to be within reach of the stream of the extinguishing agent.

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3.

Be familiar with the range of the extinguishers in your jail.

To activate the extinguisher, follow the P-A-S-S sequence: PPULL the pin at the top of the fire extinguisher which keeps the handle from being pressed. Break the thin wire or plastic inspection band; AIM the nozzle or outlet toward the fire. Some hose assemblies are clipped to the extinguisher body. Release it and point; SQUEEZE the handle above the carrying handle to discharge the agent inside. The handle can be released to stop the discharge at any time; SWEEP the nozzle back and forth before the flames to spread out the extinguishing agent. Apply it toward the base of the flames and work upward.

A-

S-

S-

The lever may be at the top or at the nozzle. A cartridge may have to be started. After the fire is out, check or observe for remaining hot spots or possible re-flash of combustible liquids. Make sure the fire is out.

INSPECT EXTINGUISHERS Portable extinguishers must be checked at regular intervals to be sure that they are properly filled and are in good working order. In some jails, this is done by the local fire department. Often, it is done as part of the inspection of the facility which is required under provisions of DOC 350.10(4): "The sheriff shall arrange for a fire inspection by the local fire department at least once every 6 months. Documentation of fire inspections shall be included in facility files." If you, as an officer, have any responsibility for checking extinguishers, check for the following: that the extinguisher is totally accessible, that it is not blocked by any object; that there is a tag that clearly indicates the date of the last recharge or formal inspection;

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that there is no indication of corrosion (leaks at seams) or mechanical damage; that the lockpin and seal are in place; that it is full (it will have a gauge); that the hose and hose coupling are in decent shape; that the hose is free of cracks; that the hose is free of dirt or grease accumulation; that the nozzle is not plugged (with gum, matches, etc.); and in general, that there are no indications of tampering. All such inspections MUST be documented, whether they are conducted by the fire department or by jail staff members. A good way to document an inspection is on a checklist form that contains the above items.

USE STANDPIPE AND HOSE SYSTEMS

Standpipe and hose systems provide a means for manual application of water to fires. They are a step up from the "first-aid" portable extinguishers, and would be used in a situation where the fire is clearly bigger than could safely be contained by a portable extinguisher, or in which an extinguisher has been tried but not been effective. They do not take the place of automatic extinguisher systems. However, they are needed where automatic protection is not provided and in areas of a building not readily accessible to hose lines from outside hydrants. These devices are much less-common that they used to be, since most newer facilities have modern sprinkler systems. There are three common classifications of hose systems: Class I systems are provided for use by fire department personnel and those trained in handling heavy fire streams. These systems have 2" hose connections; Class II systems are provided for use by the building occupants until the fire department arrives. In these, 1" hose lines are connected to 3/8" or 1/2" open nozzles or combination spray/straight stream nozzles with shutoff valves;

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Class III systems are provided for use by either fire departments and those trained in handling heavy hose streams, or by building occupants. Because of the multiple use, a Class III system is provided with both 2" and 1" hose connections.

If you have a standpipe and hose system in your jail, it is almost certainly a Class II or III system. Standpipe and hose systems must be inspected and maintained in good working order, so that they will work well if needed to suppress a fire. Ideally, officers should, at the beginning of each shift, check each standpipe and hose to be sure the equipment is in good working order. The purpose of this informal check should be to ensure the following: There should be no obvious leaks; There should be no obvious damage to hoses; The equipment is accessible and not blocked; The nozzle is in the OFF position. Additionally, each officer should know where the key is to the cabinet containing the standpipe and hose system. There should also be documented checks, at regular intervals, of standpipe and hose systems - either by the fire department or jail staff members.

As noted, you would use a standpipe and hose system in a situation in which the fire is bigger than can be suppressed with a portable extinguisher or in which an extinguisher has been tried and found to be ineffective. Follow these guidelines for using a standpipe and hose system: Be familiar with the operation of hose reels and racks. These can be either manual or semi-automatic.

This is a two-person operation. One person extends the hose from the rack or reel, while the other stands by at the discharge valve to turn on the water. Then the following sequence of steps occurs: 1. Person handling the hose extends it to full length, so that there are no kinks in the line;

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2.

When hose is extended, hose handler grasps the nozzle and hose firmly with two hands, feet spread apart for balance, directs the hose nozzle at the base of the fire, and yells "GO" to the person operating the discharge valve; Person operating the discharge valve opens the valve to turn on the water supply, slowly enough so that the back pressure in the hose line is not too dramatic. This person then goes to assist the person handling the hose; Person handling hose directs stream at base of fire, sweeping the stream back and forth slowly. Use a straight stream.

3.

4.

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USE SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS

When dealing with a fire, you will need to use self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) while suppressing the fire and evacuating or rescuing inmates. The availability of such equipment is, as you have learned, required in state jail standards, under provisions of DOC 350.10(1). Your role in regard to use of self-contained breathing apparatus is to: Be familiar with the basic components of the SCBA unit; Be able to safely put on and operate SCBA, in general; and Be thoroughly familiar with the location and use of the specific types of SCBA in your jail.

REVIEW: COMPONENTS OF SMOKE

As you learned earlier, smoke is a visible product that indicates that incomplete combustion (burning) has taken place. Smoke contains a mixture of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other chemical compounds. Some of the particles in smoke are merely irritating, while others are very toxic. As you also learned earlier, smoke is the greatest danger in a jail fire. This is true for several reasons: Smoke reduces visibility, sometimes to zero or near-zero. This typically results in disorientation and panic; Exposure to smoke through inhalation can result in death; short-term health implications such as the need for medical treatment to provide oxygen and/or remove dangerous gases from the bloodstream; and/or long-term health implications, such as respiratory illnesses, cancer, and other serious or even terminal illnesses.

Because exposure to smoke is potentially so dangerous, it is critically important that you learn to correctly use a SCBA unit so that you will not suffer the effects of exposure to smoke.

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GENERAL GUIDELINES ON SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS

Generally, the basic parts of an open circuit self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) include: A tank containing compressed air, A face piece, A pressure regulator, High-pressure hose and alarm system, and A harness, used to attach the apparatus to the wearer. Generally, there is a sufficient supply of air for about 30 minutes in each full tank (if it is a 30-minute-rated unit, which is most common). To be safe, however, the user should assume that the safe amount of available time is no more than 20 minutes. However, this varies according to the user's level of exertion. The first requirements in regard to SCBA are that each unit must be regularly inspected daily, and maintained, and that the tanks are kept filled. Daily inspection should be to ensure the following: tank has adequate pressure; all valves are closed; the stops are fully open; and the facepiece is clean. These checks must be documented.

Here are some general safeguards and guidelines to keep in mind about SCBA use: Failure to maintain a proper seal with your facepiece will result in loss of air and contamination of your facepiece. Keep in mind that a beard or mustache which drops below the level of
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the chin prohibits effective use of SCBA. People with respiratory ailments - such as asthma, emphysema or chronic bronchitis - should probably not use the equipment. If at all possible, don't use SCBA when over-exerted or after exposure to gases. When using the apparatus, work at a rate which will prevent overexertion and unnecessary air use while in contaminated areas. Do not run! Works in pairs, with another officer. This is known as the "buddy" system. This is so that if one person has a problem with his/her breathing equipment, the other person can help him or her. Always be aware of the time limit of the air supply. Get out well before that time limit. Be aware that with a 30-minute cylinder, the minimum pressure (per square inch) at which a cylinder should be re-charged is when the gauge reads below 2000 p.s.i. When the alarm goes off, leave the area with your partner. In cases of extreme heat, leave the area with your partner.

TANK EXCHANGE GUIDELINES

To exchange the air tank on an SCBA unit, follow these steps: 1. Shut off the tank valve; 2. Bleed the high pressure hose line; 3. Disconnect the high pressure hose from the air tank; 4. Check for O-ring; 5. Loosen the air straps and remove the air tank; 6. Replace with a fully-charged tank; 7. Reconnect the high-pressure hose to the air tank; 8. Conduct a pre-don check (see below).

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CONDUCT A PRE-DON CHECK

Before donning (putting on) an SCBA unit, you must conduct a "pre-don" check to be sure the unit works properly. Follow these steps: 1. Physically / visually check the facepiece; 2. Physically / visually check the tank and tank pressure; 3. Physically / visually check the harness assembly; 4. Test the regulator and alarm system, as follows: a. Check that the mainline and by-pass valves are closed. Turn on the air tank valve. Check that the alarm rings. Cover the exhalation port with your palm. Open the mainline valve. Check that the air tank and regulator pressure gauges match within 100 p.s.i. While keeping the exhalation port covered, turn off the air valve. Slowly release the pressure of your palm on the exhalation port. Check that the alarm rings at approximately 500 p.s.i.

b. c.

d. e.

DON SCBA UNIT

Air packs are generally either mounted to a wall or stored in a case or cabinet. If the unit is stored in a case or cabinet, there are two general methods of donning the equipment: the over-the-head method and the over-the-shoulder method, also known as the "coat" method. Unless it is practiced and used often, the over-thehead method is probably too difficult and potentially-harmful for most line officers to do; therefore, the over-the-shoulder method for donning the equipment is generally preferable. The exact method of donning any SCBA unit depends on the specific brand of equipment. However, there are generic steps to follow, understanding that there may be variations to these steps depending on the brand. The generic steps are as follows:

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1. 2.

Check air tank pressure gauge (should be 1,750 p.s.i. minimum); Hang the facepiece around your neck by the attached strap and put on the harness assembly and secure all straps; Check that the mainline valves and bypass valves are closed, and then open the air tank valve all the way; Place the facepiece on securely, and then check the mask seal and exhalation valve; Place the hose coupling in the exhalation port and then turn on the mainline valve. After screwing down the hose coupling, check the regulator air pressure gauge (NOTE: it should match the air tank pressure gauge reading); When the self-contained breathing apparatus is no longer necessary, unscrew the hose coupling and then turn off the mainline valve. Remove the hose coupling from the exhalation port; Remove the facepiece by loosening the fasteners and then lift up off your face; Turn the air tank valve off and bleed the system using the mainline valve. Check that all valves are closed; Remove the harness assembly and return it to the wall mounting brackets (if applicable). Check the air tank pressure gauge for proper pressure. All straps should be opened fully.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Once you have correctly donned the SCBA, you are ready to enter an area in which there is smoke or fire. Before doing so, however, there are several potential emergency situations for which you must be prepared: If the regulator malfunctions, you will use the bypass mechanism to continue breathing. Be aware of the specific manufacturer's instructions for use of your type of equipment.

If the facepiece or breathing tube is torn or damaged, do the following, only as a last resort: 1. DO NOT remove your facepiece;

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2. 3.

Disconnect the breathing tube from the regulator; Place the low pressure hose coupling inside your shirt. (This is to filter out as much toxic gases as possible.); Leave the smoke-filled environment immediately, with your partner

4.

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CONDUCT SEARCH AND RESCUE / EVACUATE INMATES

If there is a fire, you and your partner may have to enter an inmate living area to search for and rescue inmates. You may also have to evacuate inmates, either from one part of the jail to another or completely out of the jail. Remember: NEVER enter a fire emergency area alone and ALWAYS enter with SCBA equipment. The specific tasks that you may have to perform include: Unlocking cell and cellblock doors; Searching for inmates, if necessary; Rescuing inmates, some of whom may be unconscious; and Evacuating inmates.

UNLOCK CELL AND CELLBLOCK DOORS

Fire situations vary widely. You may have a relatively simple situation involving a small fire in a cell, in which you must get in to suppress the fire and perhaps evacuate inmates, but in which there is minimal smoke and good visibility. At the other extreme, however, you may have to deal with a situation in which the living area is filled with smoke and toxic gases, in which the visibility is zero, there is intense heat, and inmates are either unconscious or panicking. In either case, you must be totally prepared in advance to be able to unlock all doors so as to let inmates out of a dangerous situation, as well as to get in to fight the fire. Be thoroughly familiar with your jail's locking system, and be able to use it under extreme circumstances. Remember that state jail standards, under DOC 350.12(4), require that, "All jail personnel shall be familiar with the locking system of the jail and shall be able to release inmates promptly in the event of a fire or other emergency." Remember too that when a fire breaks out, you will not have time to experiment. If your jail has an electronic locking and unlocking system, you must be familiar with the system. You must also be familiar with the location and operation of the
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manual override system for unlocking doors. In fact, you should be able to locate and operate the system blindfolded, since you may have to operate it under conditions of zero visibility. If you use your keys to unlock cell or room doors, there are several things to keep in mind: Be sure to take the correct keys to unlock doors; Be familiar with which keys open particular locks. Remember that you won't have time to fumble around; You must know the location of an extra set of jail keys which you can use if the set normally in use is lost. Remember that DOC 350.12(2) requires that, "There shall be at least 3 complete sets of jail and fire escape keys, one set in use, one set stored in a safe place which is accessible only to jail personnel for use in an emergency, and one set stored in a secure place outside the jail." When people are panicking and visibility is poor, it is very possible for keys to get knocked out of your hand. Therefore, it is best to carry your keys attached to you, possibly through a special cable device;

When approaching an inmate living area to unlock doors, it is a good idea to wear protective gloves. of a type approved by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). These will protect you. Such gloves can be removed to feel a door for heat, but should be worn otherwise.

SEARCH FOR INMATES, IF NECESSARY

Once you've unlocked cellblock and cell doors in an area filled with smoke, you and your partner may have to enter and search for inmates - if they cannot come out on their own. A key rule is: know in advance the number of inmates in each living area (cellblock, pod, dorm, etc.). You cannot account for all inmates unless you know in advance the number you should be accounting for. In an emergency, you will not have time to check this out. When you and your partner enter a smoke-filled inmate living area, while wearing your SCBA, always be systematic in your search for inmates. Your search should be coordinated and set up with the local fire department. Know your emergency preparedness plan.

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Start in one corner and proceed systematically around the area. Always be aware of where you are so that you don't get disoriented. In an area filled with smoke, you and your partner will probably have to get down on your hands and knees in order to locate inmates. If an inmate is unconscious, he or she will usually either be on the floor or on a bunk.

RESCUE INMATES
When you and/or your partner have located an inmate, you must get him or her out of the fire area. If the inmate is conscious, you must lead him/her to safety. If the area is filled with heavy smoke, it's usually best to have the inmate crawl out on hands and knees. Since heat, smoke and gases rise, the closer to the floor one is, the safer the air is. If the inmate is unconscious or perhaps semi-conscious, you and your partner will have to carry him/her out through use of a two-person carry - referred to as an "extremities carry" or a "cross chest carry." The technique is as follows: 1. One officer stands at the head of the inmate and the second officer stands at the feet; The officer at the head kneels, brings the inmate to a sitting position, and slips his/her arms under the inmate's arms and around the chest, grasping the inmate's wrists; With his/her back toward his/her partner, the officer at the feet kneels, with his/her feet together between the inmate's legs, and grasps the inmate under or just above the knees; The two officers then stand, using their leg muscles to lift the inmate, and carry the inmate to a place of safety.

2.

3.

4.

Or, you and your partner will have to drag the inmate out. There is no specific technique for this. Most commonly, you will hold the inmate under his/her arms, or grab the shoulders, and so on. Remember that the longer someone is exposed to toxic gases and smoke, the less his/her chance of surviving. That is why it is important to rescue inmates as quickly as possible. When you and your partner bring inmates out of a cell or cellblock or other living area, it is important that there be a safe and secure place for them to be. You must know in advance where those areas are in your jail. This should be part of your

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facilitys fire emergency plan.

EVACUATE INMATES
The final critical element in occupant protection when a jail fire occurs is being able to evacuate inmates. Such evacuation involves either moving them from one part of the jail to another, or entirely out of the jail. Because each jail is different, it is absolutely crucial that you are familiar, in advance, with the following elements relating to evacuation of inmates: Authority for ordering an evacuation. Your jail fire safety plan, or your policies and procedures, should make clear exactly who has the authority to order evacuation of inmates. You must know: Can a member of the jail staff order an evacuation? If so, who? Or must it be a fire department officer? When a fire is raging, you have no time to try to get the answer to the question of who has such authority. You must know it in advance.

Evacuation routes. You must know, in advance, the exact route or routes for evacuation. You must know which corridors and doors to use, in order to evacuate inmates from each living area. Evacuation routes should be posted in the jail, and should be a part of the jail fire safety plan. Make it a practice to walk through evacuation routes, so that they are second nature to you. Be sure that you are familiar with the location and mechanism for opening every fire safety door.

Security procedures during evacuation. Security is, of course, an important concern during a jail fire - second only to life safety. Know and follow your jail's policies and procedures in regard to security, involving such issues as: whether or not inmates are to be cuffed or otherwise stabilized during an evacuation; how many officers must be available to supervise during an evacuation;

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where, exactly, inmates are to be taken when they are evacuated and who will supervise them once they are there.

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INITIATE FOLLOW-THRU PROCEDURES

Following any fire emergency situation, your next job is to initiate the necessary follow-thru procedures. Doing so is also part of your role as a first responder, according to the FIRST RESPONDER PHILOSOPHY. These procedures include: 1. Stabilizing subjects and the scene As noted, you have to be sure that all inmates are stabilized in order to ensure security and safety. This may involve placing inmates in handcuffs and/or other restraints during or following an evacuation. You must also stabilize the scene, as appropriate.

2.

Conducting initial medical assessment and providing treatment to your level of training. Check inmates for injuries. With a fire, burns and smoke inhalation are common. Check inmates for these and other possible injuries. Specifically: Determine level of consciousness; Check for airway, breathing and circulation; Perform a body check for severe bleeding, gross deformities, etc.

Provide treatment to your level of training (first aid, emergency medical technician, etc.). Activate the emergency medical system if appropriate. In a major fire, if the fire department responded, the emergency medical system may already have been activated. Continue to closely monitor inmates.

3.

Search inmates If inmates have been evacuated from their living areas, at some point they should be searched. This may be upon return from the evacuation site.

4.

Escort and transport inmates, as necessary and appropriate.

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This may involve return of inmates to the jail from an evacuation site, or to another location. If inmates are injured, they may require transportation to a hospital or similar location.

5.

Communicate Following a fire emergency, it will be necessary to communicate with other department officials and/or representatives of other involved agencies as to the situation, what happened, what is needed, and so on.

6.

Document / debrief As with any correctional "emergency" situation, you will prepare a thorough, comprehensive report on the situation, detailing what happened and how you responded. Your report should cover your approach to the situation, your intervention, and all follow-thru steps taken. Remember: your report serves as your version of events that transpired, and should articulate your justification of actions taken. Finally, following a fire emergency, it is important to adequately debrief with other staff regarding the situation and what transpired. The purpose of such debriefing is to ensure that all staff members understand what happened during the emergency and have a chance to discuss the appropriateness of actions taken in response to the situation. Sometimes, improvements in policies and procedures may result from such debriefing.

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