FireNuggets , Inc May 2017
cut sequence vid
the insulation down and out of the way . This ensures an accurate read of fire / smoke conditions . Some operators use the bar of the saw to push the insulation away from the decking . When doing this maneuver , be sure to apply the chain brake prior to inserting the bar ! When performing this technique , be mindful of the close proximity of the sheet rock ceiling on “ Rafter-Joist ” roof systems . Be careful you not to bend a hot bar . We like to perform indicators over kerfs on older roofs because we know through experience that the kerf cut can reseal due to the roofs many layers of hot , meting tar . Again , control what you can .
Systematically open the roof ( see video , above ): We always try to make our “ head cut ” ( top cut ) first . This is the first cut of the opening that runs “ against construction ”. This will ensure that the saw FF will come into contact with the roof members to establish a true , clean opening that extends from perimeter rafter to perimeter rafter . After the primary offensive cut ( heat hole ) is opened up , so long as we still have a sound working platform , we should automatically be extending upon this opening both against construction and then with construction . We cut double center rafter cuts . This means to roll two and stop at three .
We know that in general , the first opening we make over a good working fire will rarely be sufficient in generating the lift and providing relief for the interior companies . So extending and enlarging the initial opening should be automatic . However , based off of the wind or perhaps you ' re working on a roof surrounded by a large parapet wall , there are times when we should hold off on " pulling the boards " of the first opening to be able to complete the extension and enlargement of this ventilation hole . We must have the presence of mind to stop our “ pullers ” from opening up the first hole so that we can enlarge the initial opening by cutting another “ double center cut ” either “ with or against construction ”. Especially when you visualize “ red lines ” as you cut the first opening . Yes , this will slightly delay the relief that the interior companies are waiting for but in the end , your opening will be double its original size and you ended up saving time and increasing your safety by instructing your pullers to hold off thus getting the second opening completed prior to the pulling of the first . This isn ' t something we do every time . It ’ s based off of environmental conditions . It comes from experience and the ability to recognize that this area of the roof is going to get really bad once this opening is pulled and the ceiling is punched in . By exercising some restraint , you can avoid getting driven out of the area by venting fire . After all , we ’ re up there for the companies inside . If we don ' t complete our operation with sufficient size and venting then we didn ' t come up with our end of the bargain . This is a prime example of tactical discipline and having an operation .
" Pull the boards ": The opposite of “ Louvering ”. Whenever possible , we try to pull our work . We do not like to louver and leave the boards hanging from the roof members because all too often they fall into the attic / cockloft / truss-loft and create the potential for one of two scenarios .
louvering vid
By Firefighters , For Firefighters ! 24 of ! 28