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Using a "Penciling Technique" toapply water to a fire
I was reading an article on an interior fire attack and came across the term "penciling technique" referring to applying water to cool the thermal layer in a burning area. I have never heard it used before and was looking for information on it. Thanks for the input
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Dave LeBlanc on -
Read anything about the "pulsing" technique developed in Europe for countering flashover conditions and heated fire gases. Penciling is the smoothbore technique used for similar purposes.
A great resource is www.firetactics.com
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Permalink Reply by G. Douglas Webb on -
Thanks for the input. Now I know what they are referring to. The technique has a good benefit if used properly
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Permalink Reply by Brandon Roark on
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dah!! open a smooth bore and let it flow. No need to "pulse" or "pencil". A water can and delay flashover if used properly. If you are in a situation where you can see fire but feel or see the signs of impending flashover then you need to drop back and punt. If however you can see or hear the fire then open up the smooth bore and let it flow.
Penciling is great in the flashover chamber when you dont want to put the fire out. and it is a good technique when you have a fog nozzle turned to a straight stream. However since a smooth bore doesnt "create wind", open it up, the likelyhood of you disrupting the thermal layer (or more importantly the stratisified layers of gas) is minimal.
Once again though, if you are seeing the signs of flashover and you cant see the seat of the fire or hear the fire, then it is time to reconsider your stance....
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