The Importance of Pre-Incident Building Intelligence
Arriving at a complex structural fire without pre-incident intelligence puts firefighters and occupants at extreme risk. NFPA 1620 outlines methods for cataloging building construction, fire protection systems, water supplies, special hazards, and occupant vulnerabilities before an alarm sounds.
Core Pre-Plan Data Categories
- Construction & Layout: Type I through V construction, presence of truss roofs, open voids, basements, and elevator shafts.
- Water Supply & FDCs: Nearest hydrants, Fire Department Connection (FDC) locations, standpipe pressure requirements.
- Utility Shutoffs: Main gas valves, electrical switchgear, domestic water meters, and solar PV disconnect switches.
- Access & Security: Knox-Box key vaults, perimeter gates, master keys, and roll-up door security bars.