Pearls of Wisdom from the Past: Door Control & Isolation

When it comes to search, door control (isolation) is not just for VES, it can be utilized during conventional operations as well.  When searching ahead of the engine, immediate control of the entry door is paramount to [temporarily] preventing the intake of fresh air to the fire [until the arrival of a charged handline]; limiting its growth/spread and buying the search crew additional time. The practice of isolation can be employed throughout the duration of the primary search (whenever possible).  By controlling the door upon entering each room, you effectively place a barrier between the space being searched and the fire - temporarily creating an area of refuge.  Doing so blocks the flow of air and restricts additional heat, smoke and fire gases from entering the room.

Fredericks, Andrew. (2000, March). Little Droplets of Water: 50 Years Later, Part 2. Fire Engineering.