SOP 207.05 PROPERTY CONSERVATION

It is standard procedure to commit whatever fireground resource is required to reduce property loss to an absolute minimum. The activities that relate to effective property conservation require the same early and on-going command functions and aggressive action as both Rescue and Fire Control. All members are expected to perform in a manner that continually reduces loss during fire operations.

When the fire is out, shut down the fire streams. Early recognition that the forward progress of the fire has been stopped is an important element in reducing loss. The earlier the salvage operations begin the smaller the loss.

When basic fire control has been achieved, Command must commit and direct companies into "stop loss" activities; such activities generally include:

Evaluating damage to overall fire area.

Evaluating the salvage value of various areas.

Evaluate the men and equipment that will be required.

Committing the required companies to salvage functions.

Reducing hose lines from fire control functions to salvage functions.

In cases where there is an overlapping need for both fire control and salvage to be performed simultaneously and where initial alarm companies are involved in fire fighting while salvage remains undone, strike additional alarms and commit greater alarm companies to salvage functions.

Commit the same overall and sector command resource to property conservation activities as were devoted to rescue and fire control.

Be aware that personnel involved in rescue and fire control operations are generally fatigued and have reached their adrenalin-orgasm by the time property conservation functions must be completed - this can result in sloppy work and many injuries. Evaluate the condition of personnel and replace with fresh troops if needed.

Prompt fireground lighting, both interior and exterior, reduces fire loss and increases safety.

The provision of salvage functions must be integrated into the cause determination phase. When fire control becomes stable, back fire control companies out and let fire investigators develop a plan. Beware of personnel who want to quickly shovel out the interior and go home - they will generally shovel out the evidence with the debris.

Much of the property conservation profile of a building can be identified during pre-fire planning activities. Command must consider this profile in developing and extending a plan of attack.

Most fire personnel are more attracted to active fire attack functions than to the less active operations that relate to property conservation - simply, most firemen would rather operate nozzles than throw salvage. covers. Command must integrate this awareness into specific company assignments and structure effective follow-up to insure minimum property loss. (Such fire attack inclinations are healthy, beware of firemen who would rather throw covers than operate hose lines.)