This week's simulation, The large Victorian & pocket doors

You are called for a fire in the oldest area of your town or response area, as you hear the address you are instantly reminded that this is a rather large somewhat run down residence that was once considered a "mansion" 100 years ago when built, you have been there many times to assist the resident with his elderly invalid mother who resides in a bedroom facing the A side.

As you review the video simulation consider your thoughts:

1. At the front porch slide as you prepare to enter with handline.
2. A Possible C.A.N. (Conditions, Actions, Needs) report to Command as you make it to the fire room
3. A report as you see the VEIS room on the second floor
4. A C.A.N. report from Attic slide
5. Stop the video and discuss with your crew the three choices given for first in Engine, Truck and Command Location. Dont like mine? make your own spots!

Simulation

Pocket Doors

As students of the profession we all know the hazards each type of construction or house layout brings. Balloon, Knee Walls, Open Stairwells, Servant Stairs, etc. all can be found in older large "Victorian" homes. One forgotten fire spread issue found in many legacy homes is the sliding pocket door.

The sliding pocket door was a common addition to legacy homes and can be a contributor to vertical fire spread. Obviously a normal closing wood door has the ability to halt the spread of fire and smoke between two rooms.There will also be most likely header and trimmer beams running down the sides of a swinging door. The sliding door hosts a large open pocket perfect for extension and in many older homes the sliding doors may be stacked on top of each other much like plumbing channels allowing fire extension all the way up to the roof. If you find a pocket door on the first floor while overhauling or searching for fire, check above with a charged line as soon as possible.

Heavy char around door may be indicative of spread trough space of pocket door (Author Photos)