Are Fans Just for Structures?

[stone35]

I was reading an article about using the customary structure-only PPV fans for car fires. I was wondering if any other departments used this style of car-firefighting? If you haven't do you think that the fan could benefit visibility, or add to the flames?

[nbfd131]

If the car is in a area free of exposures, why not try it. If it is close to exposures, use the fan to blow the smoke and flames away from the exposures.

[Tim Schaffner]

PPV works great on vehicle fires. Set up with the wind, clears area in and around vehicle. ff's can work faster because of better visibility = Safety!!!!

[percell holland jr]

If the fan is not being used on the fire or if a second fan is availabe use the fan in rehab. Turn the speed down and direct it on the firefighters in the rehab sector. It works great. They will appreciate it on those 90 degree plus days.

[bechereg]

Along the same lines how many of us have responded to the semi with hot/burning brakes. As a Airport fire officer, we use fans for this on aircraft. Coll them BEFORE they burn.

Stay Safe
Ed

[tydon]

OK, it may be a structure, but how about using the PPV in conjunction with shipboard fire fighting?

[Aff]

tydon,
When I was in the Navy, we used to set a condition called "Hotel". Using the ships ventilation system, we would positive pressure the point of entry and use smoke ejectors at another opening if possible. This allowed for the shutting down of the effected spaces ventilation, preventing a ventilation fire. PPV fans would work great in the event you don't have direct knowledge of the ships HVAC system. Using the smoke ejectors allowed you to control the discharge. BE SAFE...

[CAPTAIN G]

We've used ours several times in rehab. A real must during summer months.

[tydon]

Hi aff, thank you for the support.

we have one of the best ports on tyhe western coast, but do you think we can get training, or should i say, "AFFORDABLE" training up here?
I have been working my tail off to get an affordable live fire training area within the north coast of B.C. and finnaly we have it! Now to get the local municipal dept.'s on board.

I have seen what positive pressure is capable of and it s potential in ship board fire fighting but wasnot sure if it would be recieved well.
I would like, in the future to experiment more with it and find out how it works with cargo ships.
I deal with a Pulp manufacturer who is high on fire protection and life safety.

[tydon]

Hi guys,

I have also used the PPV fan to clear the low lying areas, such as ditches, from gasoline fumes while performing auto extrication. This works great when placed uphill and up wind, and it keeps other emergency workers from getting stoned on the fumes.

[Marv Walton]

With the warm weather now upon us (at least here in the Northeast,) consider using a fan at an extrication scene to keep your personnel and your patients cool.