The Attack Line… and beyond!

When arriving on scene of a structure fire that is beyond the reach of our normal attack lines is no time to figure out how you are going to extend the line, or what size line will be needed, or what the needed fire flow should be. These things need to be addressed on the drill field or while surveying your first and second due areas. The important thing to remember is to keep it simple and get the first line in service with limited staffing.

Let’s discuss the long driveway stretch or the driveway lay.
One option is to use the 2 ½ cross-lay and a 100ft 1 ¾ premade hose pack. The 2 ½ pre-connect can be deployed by one firefighter down the driveway to the A side of the structure. A second firefighter or the officer (limited staffing) can take the hose pack and forcible entry tools to the end of the 2 ½. While the officer is completing the 360 the firefighter can give a dash from the outside if needed and then hook up the 1 ¾ attack line. If it is estimated that more attack line is needed the driver can help with this.

Things to keep in mind when training for the extended line:

• Where will you get the extra hose from? Have a plan in place.
• What size line – friction lose, nozzle reaction, needed fire flow?
• How much line do you need to reach the fire?
• If your pre-loaded packs come up short where will you get this extra hose?
• Long driveways, apartments, access limitations and mega mansions are just a few times when an extended stretch will be used. Train on the extended stretch and have a plan.

Let’s hear your plans for an extended stretch.
Thanks! Stay safe!

Lt Carl Hohenstein

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