Fire Safety in Correctional Facilities

"IU.s.Departmentof JusticeNational Instituteof Corrections.' !IFIRE SAFETY ,lIN IiIC--:=-O-=--R=-R=--E==-C-=::-=T=-lO--=-N=O--=A---=--L=--IFACILITIES , , 11-------1. '; ! ~ . I,. ~ I 1 Ii.1,1------iI I'I I :I 1,1. II~,I, I.~I.'l II~II"-I ANNOTATED EDITION If you have issues viewing or accessing this file contact us at NCJRS.gov.I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I FIRE SAFETY IN CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES U.S.Department of Justice National Institute of Justice ANNOTATEDEDITION Thisdocumenthasbeenreproducedexactlyasreceivedfromthe person or organization originating it. Points of view or opinions stated inthisdocumentarethoseoftheauthorsanddonotnecessarily representtheofficialpositionorpoliciesof IheNationalInstituteof Justice. PermissiontoreproducethiscE>f.l'ff'itJhledmaterial has been granted by PublicDomain/NationalInstituteof Corrections/USDept.ofJustice to the National Criminal Justice Reference Service (NCJRS). Furtherreproduction outside 01theNCJRS system requires permis-sionof theoopyright owner. FOREWORD Firesafety isof ever-increasing concern throughout our society.Thisisparticularlytrueincorrectionalfacilities, wheresecurityrequirementsnecessitatespecializedplan-ningandprocedures.Theneedtodevelopandimplement soundpoliciesandprovidesafeenvironmentshasbeen demonstratedtoooftenbyprisonandjailfiresthathave resulted in loss of life, personal injury, and property damage. TheNationalInstituteofCorrectionshasworkedwith theNationalFireProtectionAssociationtodevelop specializedtraining programs in firesafety forcorrectional facilities.These training materials are intended to assist cor-rectionalmanagersinassessingtheirfiresafetyneeds, developinglong- andshort-rangepoliciesandprocedures, and properly training their employees in fire prevention and emergency readiness. ALLEN F.BREED,Director National Institute of Corrections April 27,1981 I I I I I I I I 11 I I I I I I I I" I I ---------------- -_.---I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Prefaceiv Acknowledgmentsv Notesto the InstructorVl 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Fires in Correctional Facilities1 Using the Systems Approach to Deal with the Fire Problem15 The First Goal:Ignition Control28 The Second Goal:Fuel Control36 The Third Goal:Occupant Protection58 rrheFourth Goal:Detection and Suppression Activities75 The Fifth Goal:Planning and Training Operations110 Developing aPlan Using the Simplified System124 Appendix ARelated Codesand Standards145 Appendix BSummary of Proposed Life Safety Code Changes147 Appendix CGlossary156 Appendix DBibliography161 Appendix EChapter Review Answer Keys162 iii CONTENTS NCJAS t ~ - . . , . . . .....",-......~ . , * - ..\ , ~ ~ .PREFACEThepreventionandcontroloffiresincorrectionalfacilities presents unique problems fot those involved in the administration oftheseoccupancies.Becausethepriorityofcorrectionsad-ministrators issecurity,firesafety often receiveslittle attention among decision-making personnel. ,Over the past five years,however,the number of fatal firesin correctionalfacilitieshasbroughttheseuniqueproblemsinto sharper focus.It is evident that the particular nature of these oc-cupancies makes them easy targets for large life and property loss fires.This inherent risk is complicated by an attitude among some correctionsofficialsthat security must becompromised in order to achieve firesafety., The content of this educational manual is designed to increase theleveloffiresafetyinlocal,county,andstatecorrectional facilitiesthroughoutthe United States by alertingthe readerto thefireprobleminthese institutionsandby providing informa-tion on how to achieve a firesafe environment without the loss of security.Themanualwillbemosthelpfultostatefacilityand largejailadministratorsresponsiblefordeterminingpolicies related to fire safety in their respective institutions but with little or nofireprotection background. Thecontext inwhichinformationispresentedisanoverall firesafetysystemwithdirectapplicationtothecorrectionsen-vironment.This information emphasizesproven measures which are financially,politically,and operationally feasibleforboth im-mediateandlong-rangeimplementationbycorrectionsad-ministra tors. iv II I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I The writing of this manual has been the direct effort of a veryACKNOWLEDGMENTS small groupof people:Joseph C.Sala,author;Wayne G.Carson, technicalconsultant;CallieMcDowell,instructionaldesigncon-sultant;RuthL.Harmon,editor;MargueriteLaMonica,project secretary;MelissaEvans,wordprocessingcoordinator;and Austin R.Sennett, Director,Division forContinuing Education. However,thismanualanditsannotatededitionarethein-direct effort of hundredsof membersof the corrections commun-ity.Theyweretheinstructorsandparticipantsinaseriesof seminarsdevelopedfortheNationalInstitute of Correctionsby the Division for Continuing Education of the National Fire Protec-tion Association and conducted during the period of 1977 to 1981. Their enthusiastic reception of the seminar formatand materials providedvaluable insights intothe operationsofthe corrections environment and resulting firesafety problems,as well as poten-tial solutions.Their contributions are deeply appreciated. Special thanks belong to the Southern Steel Company of San Antonio,Texaswhoseanalytical undertakingsprovideduswith the bulk of our technical information related to locking systems. ThisdocumentwasdevelopedbytheNationalFireProtection Association under grant number BZ-Ofrom the National Institute of Corrections,U.S.Department ofJustice.Its disseminationis encouragedintheinterestofinformationexchange.TheUnited Statesgovernmentassumesnoliabilityforthecontentsoruse thereof. Thecontentsofthisdocument reflectthe viewsoftheNational FireProtectionAssociation.Thecontentsdonotnecessarily reflect the official views or policy of the National Institute of Cor-rections. This document does not constitute a standard, specifica-tion,or regulation. v NOTICE NOTESTOTHE INSTRUCTOR PROGRAM OBJECTIVES This manual is intended to serve as a sourcebook for teaching fire safety in correctional facilities.As such, it contains both stan-dardtextualinformationandinstructionalannotations.Thean-notationsaddresstwogroupsofpotentialstudents:LevelI, supervisory personnel;and LevelII,linestaff. Annotationsarenumericallyreferencedinthetext.Annota-tionsfunctionasteachingaids.'rheymayenlargeuponself-instruction exercises already in the text or they may suggest addi-tional group exercises or discussions, provide 8xplanation, or offer tips on specific audiovisual materialsthat are available. Theinstructionalmethodusedinthismanualpresentsa number of overall objectives as well as specific performance objec-tives at the beginning of each chapter. The objectives are aimed at increasing the level of firesafety within the context of security in local,county,andstatecorrectionalfacilitiesthroughoutthe United States. They include: To provide participants with an awareness of the fire safe-ty problems uniqueto correctional facilities. I)To provide participants with a knowledge of the goals of a firesafetysystemandhowthesegoalsincorporatefire safety obj ectives. Toprovideparticipantswithan awarenessoffirecodes and standards related to the overall firesafety system of acorrectional facility. 'ro provide participants with adequate knowledgeoffire protection technology and its use in correctional facilities. To enable participants to evaluate the firesafety problem inan individual facility. To provide participants with practical means forincreas-ing firesafety in order to achieve stated firesafety objec-tives. Toenableparticipantstodevelopemergencyoperating proceduresfordealingwithcorrectionalfacilityfires without compromising security. To encourage participants to improve relations with local andstatefireauthoritiesinordertoincreaseefficiency andcooperationinfireprevention andcontrolactivities (LevelIonly). Toenable participants to develop education and training programsformembersofthe correctionscommunity in-cludingcorrectionsofficers,inmates,firebrigades,and administrators (LevelIonly). Toprovideparticipantswithanawarenessofthose resourcegroupswhocanbecontactedforfurther technical and financialassistance (Level Ionly). vi I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Toencourage participants to take those steps necessary toimprovelifesafetywithinthefinancial,legal,and operational constraintsof acorrectional facility(LevelI only). In order to ensure that students reach stated goals and objec-tives,themanualisbasedonastrictchapterstructure.The chapters provide basic information,amethod fororganizing the course content,and exercisesthat can be used individuallyorin groups. The chapters followa logical sequence;therefore,a work-ing understanding of one chapter is a prerequisite forthe next. It isexpectedthat an instructorwilltakethebasicinformationin the chapters and tailor it tothe facilityusing it. Throughoutthisprogramofinstruction,theinstructoris responsible for the overall management and delivery of the course. Inthiscasethestudentsserveassecondaryresources.Asthe primarypresenterofmaterials,theinstructorwillneedto familiarize himself/herself with the course content and consult ad-ditionalreferencesasnecessary.Asmanager,youwillneedto organizewrittenandaudiovisualmaterials,establishthe classroom environment,and guide student discussions.For max-imumstudent involvement,introducestudentstothecourseby explainingwhatthecourseconsistsof,howitwillberun,and whatlevelofparticipationisexpectedofthem.Followingare somesuggestionsthatcanbeusedtofacilitateeachofthese responsibilities. Except forChapter Eight,which covers long-range planning, allofthechaptersareaddressedtobothLevelIandLevelII students.Chaptersarearranged with an overviewcontaining:a content summary, a listing of performance objectives, a listing of unfamiliar words, the content itself, and a chapter review. In addi-tion, the headings which appear alongside the text function as an instructor's outline forthe content. Before beginning each chapter, review the performance objec-tiveswith students sothat they understand what isexpected of them.Also,review any glossary wordsthat may be unfamiliar to students. The most effective method of presenting this program of in-structionistosupplementaninstructor'slecturepresentation withthreeadditionalcomponents:astudentworkbook, audiovisual materials.and group discussions. Experiencehasproventhatincreasedstudentinvolvement results in greater initial learning and retention. In order to initiate vii ROLE OF INSTRUCTOR Deliver Information OrganizeWritten and Audiovisual Materials andmaintainstudentinvolvement,it isrecommendedthatyou developastudent workbookorwork pages based on the sugges-tions which appear in the annotations. A highly structured format that encourages interactive note taking will prove most beneficial. Withintheannotations,suggestionsforinformationtobein-cluded on a particular workbook page appear followingthis sym-bol.The organizat,ion and layout of this information is left to the discretion ofthe individual instructor. Workbookpagescanalsobeusedforproblem-solving scenariosorcasestudiesasabasisforgroupdiscussions.Asa trainerandmemberofthecorrectionscommunity,youcanuse your expertise and experience to write up short case studies which should always include:all pertinent facts, date and time of any in-cidents, a clear statement of the problem to be solved, and atime within whichto solvethe problem. Anothersymbolwhichappearsintheannotationssuggests that an overhead transparency be used.In most cases,the infor-mationsuggestedforthetransparencyduplicatesthatforthe workbookpage.Thetransparency issuggestedto helporganize theinstructor'spresentationandtoassistthestudentsincom-pleting their workbookpages.The simplest transparency can be madewithasheetofclearacetateandatransparencymarking pen. For maximum readability, written information which appears on atransparency should be clear,concise,and simply presented. Suggestionsforavailableaudiovisualsappear inthe annota-tions.Slides,slide/tapepackages,films,ortransparenciesare available from the following producers of fire protection materials: Robert J. Brady Co. APrentice-Hall Company Bowie,Maryland 20715 Film Communicators 11136Weddington Street No.Hollywood,California 91601 Toll Free:(800)423-2400 Factory Mutual Engineering Corporation 1151Boston-Providence Turnpike P.O.Box 688 Norwood,Massachusetts 02062 National Fire Protection Association Publications Division Batterymarch Park Quincy,Massachusetts 02269 viii I II I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ------- -------Your local firedepartment, any large industrial plant with its own fire brigade, and the state fire training office may have copies ofthesematerialswhichtheywouldbewillingtolend.Using materials from any of these local sources may prove valuable dur-ing any planning or training sessions. Anotherreadilyavailableandeffectivesourceofslidesisa 35-mmcameraandslidefilm.Yourownfacilityprovidesthe greatest potential foraudiovisualsthat not only illustrate infor-mationbutofferameansforapplyingthatinformationtothe everyday workenvironment. Before each class,assemble all necessary materials including any reference materials which need to be ordered. Since use of the chalkboardisgenerallyincludedi.aeachunit,erasersand chalk should alsobe available.In somecasesyoumaychoosetocom-pletegroupreportingproceduresbyusinganoverhead transparency.If youintendtouse anyaudiovisuals,make sure that all equipment and materials are ready foruse. The physical set-up of the room isan important factor forat taining an atmosphere in which students are viewed as resources. There shouldbe aworkingsurface on whichstudents can write. Preferably, round tables which seat up to eight persons should be used and each table should accommodate one working group. The tables should be arranged so that each student is able to view any visual materials, including the chalkboard. If available, additional referencematerials,suchascodesorstandards,couldbeconve-niently located inthe roomsothat students may have ready ac-cessto them. Toachievethegreatestvisualimpactofslides,films,or overheadtransparencies,trytoobtainafacilitywithblack-out blinds. If no such room is available, set up the screen so that light entersthe room frombehind it.The screen should be of aheight visible to all students. All equipment should be set up and checked before the class enters. Slides, films,and overhead transparencies should be previewed before they are shown to the students to en-sure that all materials are complete and that you are prepared to discuss and comment on them. The projector should be in proper working condition, and the slides to be viewed should be properly positionedinthemachine.Havingtheequipmentreadyforuse promotes an efficient and well-managed atmosphere. It is always advisable to keepextra projector bulbson hand. Establishthe Classroom Environment There are numerous references to group discussions in the an- Organize and Manage notations, indicated by the symbol shown here.Generally, groups GroupDiscussions shouldbekeptsmall.Whengroupworkisspecified,dividethe I_""l___ I classintogroupswithamaximumoffourorfivepersonsper If __ I ix ~ group.However,if the number ofgroupsexceedsthe number of topics to be discussed,more than one group can work on the same problem.In this case,make sure that each group has a chance to report onthe exercise. Sincegroupdiscussionsarefrequent,itisimportantthat students feel comfortable with each other. Should your classRs in-clude both Level Iand Level II students, allow class members an opportunity to interact and establish arapport with each other. During group exercises and discussions, your job as manager is to make certain that students understand and work toward the objectivesspecifiedunderthe particulargroupexercise.Several ideasthat mayhelpyouin keeping discussionscentered are: oRecognizethat any group of adults has expertise and ex-perience whichthey want to share,and whichcan beex-plored and appliedtothe problem at hand. oReflectanyqueriesforyourownopinionbacktothe groupforresponse. oEncourageequalparticipationbyallmembersofthe group.Thiscan often be accomplished by calling on new peopleby namerather than waiting forvolunteers. Address any comments you may haveto the large group or smaller groupsrather than to individuals. Whenindividualsrespond,avoidjudgmentalcomments such as "good" or "not true." Rather, put the question of agreement ordisagreementto the group. oReactwithacceptanceandwithoutevaluation,showing onlythat youunderstand or need clarification. oA void an extended digression by asking someone to relate it to the main point. eHandlerepetitionbysummarizing andmakingatransi-tion to newtopics. oPrevent confusion and eliminate disagreement by narrow-ingthescopeofdifferencesandrecognizingthatdif-ferencesin judgment arepossible. Remindgroupofanytimelimitssoitcanconsiderall aspects of aproblem. x I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Chapter One FIRES IN CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES Whatdoesit meanwhenwetalkabout"thefireproblemin correctional facilities"? Clearly, jails, prisons, detention centers, and similar buildings differfrommostinstitutionaloccupanciesbecausesecurityisa majoroperationalconsideration.Thewaysinwhichthisdif-ferencehasshapedthehistoryoffireincorrectionalfacilitiesis thefocusofthischapter.Thechapterwillpresent:anoverall historyoftheproblem;individualcasesummaries;common characteristicsof firesincorrectional facilities;the impact of the security factor;anda unit review. Afterreadingthischapterandcompletingtheexercisesas directedby thetext,youwillbe abletodothe following: (IDescribehowthenatureoffiresinthesefacilitieshas changedovertheyears. ..Listfourcharacteristicscommontofiresinthese facilities. Identifythemostcommonsourceofignitionforincen-diaryfiresincorrectional facilities. Beforebeginningthischapter,youmaywanttousethe glossary to review any of the followingtermswith which you are not familiar. combustibles fuelconfiguration incendiary meansof egress untenable 1 OVERVIEW 1.Itisassumedthatstudentswill havealreadybeeninformedofthe basiccontentsofthecourse,howit willbepresented,andwhatlevelof participationisexpectedofLevelI andLevel"students.Ifnecessary, repeatthisinformation.Students shouldbemadeawareofexactly whattoexpectfromthecourse. Sincefiresafetytraditionally rankslow among the priorities of cor-reclionsofficials,establishclearly andfirmlytheextentofthefirepro-blemincorrectionalfacilities.1m-2pressonthestudentsthatthereIsa fireproblemincorrectionalfacilities andthattheinformationinthis coursewillhelpthemtocorrectthe problemintheirfacilities. 2.Studentsshouldunderstandex-actly what level of performance is ex-pectedofthemaftercompleting eachchapter.If students do not have sometypeofworkbookinwhichthe objectivesforeachchapterare listed,reador explaintheobjectives tothem. 3.Before beginning this and subse-quentchapters,studentsshOUldbe 3fB.miliarwiththetermslistedinthe overviewsectionofeachchapter. Oneapproachistoaskfat volunteerstodefinethewords. Anothermethodwouldbetohave studentslocatedefinitionsinthe glossary. HISTORY OF THE PROBLEM 4.Tnissectionputstheflr9prob lemincorrectionalfacilitiesIn historicalperspeclive.Anumberof fireswillbediscussedInlimited detail.Whenyouarepresenlingthis sectionbecertainstudents recognizesomeoftheproblems (e.g.,combuslibleinteriorflnlSfleS, synthetics)thattheymayencounter Intheirparticularfacilities. Ifunlimitedtimeforclass preparationexists,thefires themselvesandrelatedphotographs canberesearchedthroughstate departmentsofcorreclions,theNa tlonalInstituteofCorrections,orthe NationalFire Protection Association S.Students shouldunderstand that youarenotadvocatingabandoning "ecurityinfavoroffiresafetyand 1;(8protection.Yourecognizethat securityisBleirnumberonepriority. However.fireGafetymustshareIfl IlliSPriority.Thehistory offire IIIGar rectronalfaCilitiespOintsoutthe problems(indeatlls)trlathaveoc curred becausefiresafety wasnot a priority 4 5 ThedevastatingfireattheOrioStatePrisoninColumbus, Ohio, which killed 320 inmates in 1930, made it clear that a serious fireproblem existed incorrectional facilities.At that time,prison constructionwasoftenwoodframe,mostnotablyframeroof structures.Once a firestarted, it consumed these structures with ravagingintensity.Builders,fireprotectionengineers,andfire servicepersonnelappliedmoderntechnologyandthemultiple fatalityfireproblem incorrectional facilitieswassolved. Orwasit?Nearlythirtyyearslater,duringthe1960sand 1970s,themultiplefatalityfireproblemincorrectionalfacilities returned with a vengeance.Solutions,however,wereno longeras simple.Newtypesoffuelscreatedfiresunlikethosefedbyor-dinarycombustibles. During the 1960s and1970s, correctional facilities were enter-ingtheeraofsynthetics.Syntheticmaterials,including polyurethane foamandstyrene-butadiene foam rubber,were used tomanufacturefurnishingssuchasmattressesandpadding panelsincells.Combustibleinteriorfinisheshelpedtomakethe correctionalenvironmentlessharshandmorecivilized.Stark, blankreinforcedconcretesecuritywallsweredisguisedbehind facadesofthinplywoodpaneling,reinforcedplastic paneling,or othercombustiblematerials.Combustiblesuspendedceilings wereinstalledtocreatea morehumaneenvironment. Oneofthefiresthatillustratedthischangeinthefuelcon-figurationofcorrectionalfacilitiesoccurredinJune1975atthe SeminoleCountyJail,Florida.Teninmatesandonecorrectional officer suffocated in the toxic smoke of burning polyurethane mat-tresses.Thisfirewas one of the tragedies that ushered in the new breed of mUltiplefatalityfiresincorrectional facilities. Asthefuelconfigurationincorrectionalfacilitieschanged, creating newfireproblems,the combinationof otherdeficiencies - singlemeansofegress,unreliablelockingandevacuation systems,lackofautomaticormanualfiresuppression capabilities,lackof early warning firedetection,andthe high fre-quencyofincendiaryfires- completedthegrimscenariofor tragedy. BeginningwithamultiplefatalityprisonfireonJune21, 1977,thefiresafetyproblemincorrectionalfacilitiesexploded withdeathanddestruction.Ina periodof twoanda half weeks, threemultiplefatalityfiresoccurred:oneintheCityDetention Center in St. John, New Brunswick; one in the Maury County Jail, Columbia,Tennessee;andthe last intheFederal Correctional In-stitutioninDanbury,Connecticut.Thetotaldeathtollfromthe threefireswassixty-eight people. Clearly,the fire problem in correctional facilities istragic. An initial step toward solving this problem is to analyze the firesand notemajorcharacteristicsthatoccurinfireafterfire.Wehave alreadymentionedaspecificfueltype- namely,polyurethane 2 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ~ . ~I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ~.. ,'>tJ,"..\ ... 1; mattresses- asthe cause ofmany multiple fatalityfires.Other aspectsthat can be evaluated forcommon characteristics arethe typeofact,thesourceofignition,theplaceoforigin,andthe degreeofsecurity.Thischapter willbrieflydescribeelevenfires that have occurred over the years in correctional facilities and you will note some of their common characteristics. Later chapters will discussspecific measuresthat can be usedto reduceor eliminate the problems presented by each characteristic. The followingsummaries describe eleven firesin correctional facilities.Beforecontinuing,removerrable1.1,"Common6 CharacteristicsofFiresinCorrectionalFacilities,"andplaceit alongsidethismanual.As you read each summary,fillinthe ap-propriateinformationonthechart.It isimportanttobeas specific and complete as possible when filling in the chart. When it iscomplete,thechartwillprovideyouwith aquickoverviewof the major lossesand common characteristicsof each fire. Duringthe late afternoon and eveningofMonday,April21, 1930, a raging fire swept through the north wing cell blocks of the OhioState Penitentiary at Columbus. To date, it is the worst fire catastrophe to take place in a correctional facility in this country. Atotal of 320inmates lost their lives and 133others received in-jurieswhichmighthaveeventuallycauseddeathorpermanent disability. While the resultant property damage was comparative-ly small,the variouscircumstancessurrounding thisfireand the appallinglossoflifeforciblycalledattentiontothepotential tragic hazardsto lifeand property present in institutionsof this 3 Polyurethanemattressesstored outsidethecellwerethematerials firstIgnitedattheSeminoleCounty Jail InSanford. Florida.(Credit: Sen-tinelStar Journal) 6.Thischart shouldformthebasis ofyourpresentationoftheeleven firesincorrectionalfacilities.Thus, thediscussion ofeachfireshouldin-clude:date of fire,facility,andloca-tionofthefacility;major losses;type ofact;ignitionsource;placeof origin;fuel;andanyproblemsin evacuation.It isthis information that studentsshouldhaveintheir notebookorworkbook.Overhead transparenciesthatcanbecom-pletedbyyouduringthediscussion ofeachfirewouldbehelpful. OHIOSTATEPENITENTIARY Columbus,Ohio April1930 Losses TypeofAct IgnitionSource PlaceofOrigin Fuel EvacuationProblems CASE SUMMARIES COLUMBUS1 OHIO April 1930 Table 1.1 COMMON CHARACTERISTICS OF FIRES IN CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES DATE, FACILITY ANDMAJOR TYPE OF ACT FUELPLACEOFPROBLEMS Il'i (Incendiary or LOCATIONLOSSES Accidental) TYPEORIGINEVACUATION April 1930 Ohio State Penitentiary Columbus,Ohio July 1967 State RoadCamp Berrydale,Florida March 1968 Oregon State Penitentiary Salem, Oregon October 1974 Youth Correctional Center Cranston, Rhode Island June 1975 SeminoleCounty Jail Sanford, Florida November 1975 Lycoming County Jail Williamsport, Pennsylvania June 1976 Marion State Prison Marion,North Carolina June 1977 Maury County Jail Columbia, Tennessee June 1977 Saint John City Detention Ctr. St. John,New Brunswick July 1977 Federal Correctional Institute Danbury, Connecticut December 1979 Lancaster County Jail Lancaster, South Carolina Most frequentlyobserved characteristic of each I category. 4 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I --- ----I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I kind.Thisgruesomerealityemphasizedtheneedtoprovide greater safeguards forthe inmates inallfacilities. The large loss of life was due to the fire in a wood roof building where a great number of inmates were concentrated. The large un-dividedareaof the building,the lack of detectionorsuppression systems,andthecombustibleroofconstructionaffordedideal conditionsforthe rapidspread of fire.The lossof lifewasexag-geratedbecauseinmateswereconfinedincellswithindividual locks.Add the fearof mutiny among the inmates and the lack of emergency procedureswhichdelayedopeningthe locks,and the scenario fortragedy iscomplete.Althoughthe firedepartment's responsewasprompt,the headwaywhichthefiregainedbefore the fire fighters arrived indicates that considerable delay occurred either inthe discovery of the fireor insounding the alarm. Fifty-oneprisonerswerehousedinawoodframedormitory building of a state road camp when an evening disturbance broke out.Inmatesset afireat theoppositeendof thesingle,heavily barricaded exit from the building. A wall exhaust fan near the fire helpedto increase its intensity. Whenthefirewasdiscovered,officerswenttogetweapons fromanarmscabinetintheoffice.Thisdelayedthereleaseof prisoners for about nine minutes because the same key to the gun cabinet also opened the single exit. The delay ended in tragedy for thirty-eight inmates. During ariot,inmates took control of a major portion of this correctionalfacility.Theysetseveralfiresinsixseparate buildings in the prison compound. The rioting inmates would not allow the responding fire fightersto attack the fire.One of the six buildings, afurniture factory,wasthe only building protected by anautomaticsprinklersystem.Thesprinklersystem controlled this fire until its water supply was interrupted. Damage amounted to an estimated $1.5million. ". 5 BERRYDALE, FLORIDA July1967 SALEM,OREGON March1968 Thefirethatconsumedthis woodenprisonbarracksinBerry-dale,Florida,leftthirty-eight prisonersdead- thelargestlossof lifeInasinglefireintheUnited States ar CanadaIn1967.The metal cage Inthefareground was the guard station.(Credit:ThePressGazette) CRANSTON, RHODE ISLAND October1974 SANFORD, FLORIDA June1975 WILLIAMSPORT, PENNSYLVANIA November 1975 MARION, NORTH CAROLINA June1976 Intherecreationroomofamaximumsecurityfacilityfora youthcorrectionalcenter,sevenmalejuvenilesbarricadedthe mainentrancedoorwithapooltableandignitedseveral polyurethane foam cushions from the chairs and sofas. Due to the rapid build-up of heat and smoke,the room became untenable in a matter of minutes.The correctional officerscould not releasethe juvenilesthrough the mainexit;the alternate exitwasbehinda locked fence.Only after adelay in obtaining the key weretheof-ficersableto unlockthe alternate exit and rescuefiveboyswho wereatthatdoor.Bythenthefiredepartmenthadresponded. Severalfirefighterswearingself-containedbreathingapparatus enteredthe buildingand evacuated the othertwoboys.Thefire was quickly extinguished by fire fighters and confined to the area of origin. One of the last two boys evacuated died shortly after ar-rival at the hospital;the other boy succumbed several days later. Ajuvenile set fireto polyurethane mattresses stored outside hiscellinthistwo-storycounty j ail.Oneoftwocorrectionalof-ficersonduty attemptedtogetstandpipe hosetofightthefire, whiletheother guard wentto reportthefireandget additional help in releasing prisoners. By the time he returned with help,the smokeandheatweresointensethatthemenweredrivenback after releasing only three prisoners and inadvertently leaving cell keysin one lock. Arriving fire fighters equipped themselves with self-contained breathing apparatus, searched for the lost keys and evacuated the remainingprisoners.Theyfoundthefirstcorrectionalofficer's body with the second set of cell keys.In addition to the one officer whodied,ten prisoners losttheir livesfromsmoke inhalation in-juries during this incident. About 12:30 a.m. in the juvenile detention cell of this concrete and stone correctional facUitywith solid steel doors,six juveniles ignitedthemattressesfromtheirbeds,probablyaspartofan escape plan.The juveniles gave the guards an early alarm onthe emergencycallsystem.However,becauseofpreviousfalse alarms,the callswere ignored.Guards werethus unawareofthe rapid buildup of smoke and heat from the polyurethane-foam mat-tressesanddidnot respondimmediately.Oncerescueattempts began, guards delayedsounding the alarm to firefighters.Three of the six juveniles died before fire fighters arrived. Compartmen-tationhelpedtopreventdeathorseriousinjurytoprisonersin other areas. This one-story institution housed sixty-seven prisoners in two dormitorycells.Severalofthethirty-sixprisonersinonedor-mitorycellignitedsheetsandblanketswithmatchestoprotest theconfiscationoftworadios.Aprisonguardorderedthe 6 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I prisonersto put the fireout.Asthe guard returnedtohisdesk, theinmatesthrewseveralpolyurethanemattressesonthefire. The fire expanded rapidly, and was out of control within minutes. Onlythen did the fivecorrectional officers on duty open the four exits and release the men to the recreational yard. Atotal of nine inmates died frominjuriesthey received during the incident.An additionaltwenty-fourwereinjured,andapproximately$50,000 worth of property wasdamaged. It wasafternoonvisitinghoursintheMauryCountyJail. Thisinstitution,constructedoffire-resistivematerial,housed sixty-five inmates and contained the sheriff's office.A fireofap-parentlyincendiaryoriginstartedinacellpaddedwithboth styrene butadiene and urethane foam padding.Along with the in-mates,several visitorswere lockedinthe cellblockarea.Severe smoke conditions rapidly developed after the occupant of the cell oforiginwasremoved,andthedoortothe padded cellwasleft open. In the rush to release people,the jailer's keysweredropped andtemporarilylostinasmoke-filledcorridor,delayingevacua-tion.Severalpersonswereremovedasfirefightersbreachedan exteriormasonrywallandcutsteelbarstoprovideameansof egress.Thirty-fourinmatesandeightvisitorsdied;thirty-one otherpeoplewereinjuredbythefire.Damagetothejailwas moderate,with the firebeing confinedto the padded cell. COLUMBIA, TENNESSEE June1977 Rapidbuildupof smokeandheatfrompalyurethanemat-tresses and adelayed alarm tofirefighters resulted inthe deaths ofthreejuvenileInmatesinthisWilliamsport,Pennsylvania juveniledetentioncell. Severe smoke conditions developedinthe MauryCounty Jail fromafirethat beganinapaddedcellthathadbothstyrene-butadiene foampadding withneoprene and urethane foampad-dingwithapolyvinylcover.Thirty-fourinmatesandeight visitorsdied.(Credit:ColumbiaDailyHerald) t.."I\1: ~ ..\j ... 7 ST.JOHN, NEW BRUNSWICK June1977 DANBURY, CONNECTICUT July1977 Foamrubberpaddingand plasticcoveringonwalls,flool', andceilingweretheprimary fuelsof the fireat the City Deten-tionCenterInSt,John,New Brunswick, At the time of this late-night incident, approximately twenty-seveninmateswerehousedinthemaincellsofthedetention center. The firestarted in a padded cell where the primary fuelin-volved was foam rubber padding and plastic covering on the walls, floor,andceiling.Thedetentioncenterwasequippedwithheat and smoke detectors and manually activated fire alarm boxes. An alarm wasautomatically sounded to the firedepartment if either the detectors or manual box wasactivated. Despiterapidlydevelopingthicksmoke,thecorrectionalof-ficerswereableto remove an inmate fromthe padded cellwhere thefirestarted.Correctionalofficersmadeaninitial attemptto fightthe firewith a standpipe hose,but they were quickly forced out of the area by the intense heat and smoke. Firefighterresponsewasrapid.Thiswasduetothedirect connectionofthealarmsystemtothe firealarm center,andthe location of the fire apparatus only a fewblocks away. The intense heatandsmoke,however,resultedindeathfortwenty-onein-matesandinjuriesforfourteenother people,includinginmates, police,correctional officers,and firefighters. An early morning fire occurred in a dormitory unit of a federal correctionalinstitutionthatwasoffire-resistiveconstruction. Eighty inmates werehoused in the 40-by-80-footarea. Thefire,apparentlyincendiary,wasignitedinawashroom near the primary meansof egressfromthe dormitory.'fhe alter-nate means of egress became unusable when a key broke off in the doorlock.Thefire'sinitial growth,withrapidflamespreadand heavy smoke,involved fiberglassreinforced plastic wall paneling and its plywood backing. The fire was confined to the general area of origin in the washroom.Fire fighters were hindered in reaching the fireduetothe security measures requiredat the institution, includingseveralgatesthatwereopenedbydifferentkeys.No single guard had keys to every gate or door that had to be opened. 8 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I In sum,both the type of fuel and the lack of prefire planning ledto the tragic results of this fire:fiveinmates dead;eighty-six inmates,correctional officers,and fire fighters injured. This structure, which was located atop a building listed in The NationalRegisterofHistoricPlaces,containednoautomatic sprinklerprotection,noheatorsmokedetectorsystems,no manual alarmsystem,noemergency lighting,and 110emergency unlocking mechanisms.Moreover,the jail had no visual monitor-ing systems and,evenworse,nosecond meansof egress. Althoughthesourceofignitionwasundetermined,events precedingthefirepointtoanincendiarycause.Onceignited, storedcombustiblematerials,bedding,inmates'clothing,and cleaning products,whichwereallstored together,produced heat andsmokethat quicklymadethe entire jail area untenable.Fire damage involved the stored material and combustible contents of the nearby cells. Despitequickworkbyatrusteeand,later,firefighters,a stubbornpadlock,combinedwiththeintenseheatandsmoke, frustratedeffortstofreeinmates.Inadditiontoelevendeaths, fourfire fighters,two police officers,and the trustee were injured inthe rescue attempt. LANCASTER, SOUTH CAROLINA December 1979 Thiswashroom inthe Danbury,Connecticut correctionaljac/llty was near tlJeprimary means of egress fromthe dormitory.The fire'sinitial growth,withflamespread and heavy smoke,wasdue tofiberglassreinforcedplastic wallpanelingand itsplywoodbacking.(Credit:JohnMongillo,Jr.,NewHavenRegister) 9 7.Althoughthesetwofires. especially thorrotatttwNow Mnxlco StatePenitentiary.malwforrr\. terBstrngdiscusSions.bHCBrtnlnIn pOintoutthattt1HsurroundirrnCir-cumstances arBbeyond the ~ c o p e of thiscourse COMMON CHARACTERISTICS OF FIRESIN CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES 8TheconclUSIonsdrawnabout themostfrequentlyobserved characteristIcsshouldcomefrom students.Give students about oneor twominutestoreviewtheirnotes. Thenaskforvolunteerstogive responsestnthefollOWing categorres:typeofact;fueltype. placeoforigin;problemsinevacua-tionStudents should understand the significanceofthesecommon Twoother significant firesin correctional facilitiesareworth 7noting.On January 30,1979,a natural gas combustion explosion destroyedawingofabuilding housingafarmequipment repair shopoftheUnitedStatesFederalPenitentiary inLeavenworth, Kansas.Sixinmatesandonestaff memberwerekilled,andtwo farmstaffmemberswereinjured.OnFebruary2,1980,itwas "hooch"that provided the fuelforthe bloody and savage riotat theNewMexicoStatePenitentiaryinSantaFe,NewMexico. Thirty-sixhourslater,thirty-threeinmateslaybutcheredinthe ruins.Damage caused by firesand the unrestrained madness was estimated at $22million. Why areneither of thetwodisasters just described included in the main part of our discussion of the common characteristics of firesincorrectional institutions? Eachofthesedisasters,whilesignificant in both lossof lifeand property damage, are beyond the scope of this discussion.The in-troduction pointed out that themajor focusofthismanual isin-mateoccupancies- residential,assembly,andeducational.The explosionattheUnitedStatesFederalPenitentiaryat Leaven-worth took place in a farm equipment wing which is part of an in-dustrial area. Even more specialized is the case of the New Mexico StatePenitentiarytragedy.Thefiresafetysystemdiscussedin thismanual isnot intendedtoapplytofiresresulting fromriot situations. Now that youhave completed Table 1.1,use the information summarized from the case histories to draw conclusions about the 8most frequently observed characteristic in each category. AsthecompletedTable1.1indicates,thefrequencyofin-cidenceof certain commoncharacteristics in these elevencorrec-tional facilities firesissignificant. Your table should show that: Almostallfireswereincendiary,somearising fromriot situations. Except forthe initial three firesin these case summaries, thefueltypesweresyntheticmaterials- specifically polyurethane mattresses,foamrubber cushions and pad-ding,and,inoneinstance,fiberglassreinforcedwall paneling.Alongwithinmates'clothes,thesematerials 10 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ---------"------------ -------I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I would bethe common fuelavailable in cells and cellblock areas. The inmate bousing areas,i.e.,cellsand cellblocks,were the place of origin in most ofthe eleven firesstudied. Finally,inthemajorityoftheseincidents,therewere significantcomplicationsresultingfromsomeaspectof security.Archaiclockingsystems,lostkeys,nosecond meansofegressand,especially,lackofemergency evacuation procedures contributed to serious problems in evacuating inmates. After notingthesecommoncharacteristics,what generalcon-clusioncanbedrawnabout firesincorrectionalfacilities? Fromthesecommoncharacteristicsamongtheelevencases presented,itisclearthatfiresincorrectionalfacilitiespresent special problems both in fire prevention and firesuppression. 9 Inanefforttoidentifyandstudytheseproblems,theNa- 10 tional Fire Protection Association reviewed the reports of 52fires in correctional facilities from January 1967 through July 1977 (see Table1.2).Asummary ofthese reports, in AStudy of PenalInstitutionFires, *identifiessignificantcommon characteristicsofcorrectionalfacilitiesfiresand fireprotection. Thesecommoncharacteristics,manyofwhichhavebeeniden-tifiedinTable1.1,aregroupedintoseveralcategories:typeof act,sourceofignition,fueltype,placeoforigin,andsecurity aspect. The statistical informationofthisstudy pointstoafamiliar scenario- or as NFP A researchersdescribe it - aHmodel"cor- 11 rectionalfacilityfire.The"model"correctional facilityfireisof incendiaryoriginandisstarted inacell.Thefireprincipallyin-volves building contents, as opposed to structural materials. Fur-ther,'this"model"firegeneratesintenseheatanddensesmoke thatquicklyinvadeallcorridorsandadjoiningareas,hindering safeevacuationoftheoccupants.Doesthisscenariosound familiar?It has occurred in fireafter firein correctional facilities. As Table 1.2 illustrates, 45 out of the 52 fires (87 percent) were incendiary in nature. *ASwdyof Pct/alInstitutionPircs,Boston:NationalFireProtectionAssociation, 1977. 11 characterIStICs:itistheseareas, speCIfically,thatmust beaddressed inanyfiresafetyprograminacor rectlonalfacility. COMMONCHARACTERISTICSOF FIRESINCORRECTIONAL TypeofAct Fuel Placeof Origin EvacuationProblems 9.Ask for student responses to this question STA TlSTICALSTUDY 10.LEVELITheNFPAstudyis simplyareviewofthediscussionon thecommonctlaracteristicsoffires IncorrectionalfacilitiesThereisno needtospendanymorethantwoor threeminutessummariZingthefm dingsoftheNFPAreport.However. supervIsorypersonnelshouldbe awarethatsuchastudy11asbeen conducted. 11_A discussion of a '"model"cor-rectionalfaCility lire serves asanex cellentreviewofthiSchapterEx pia\!, \0 students ttmt you want to use theInformationdiscussedInthiS chaptertodescnbea"model"cor rectionalfaCilityfire.Askfor students to volunteer a description of a"model"correctionalfaCilityfire MOTIVES FOR INCENDIARY FIRES Table 1.2 STATISTICS OF PAST CORRECTIONAL FACILITY FIRES* Category Type of Act Accidental Incendiary Source of Ig1J:..ition Welding Boiler Electrical Equipment Smoking Materials Unspecified Fuel Type Mattresses Cell Padding Clothing Paper Products WoodRoof or Floor Flammable Liquid Place of Origin Number of Incidents 7 45 1 1 3 27 17 25 5 11 5 2 3 ~ s M Recreation Room4 Boiler Room2 Storage Area4 CellBlocks6 Penal WorkBuildings3 Security Aspect (Problemin Evacuation) Prompt Evacuation6 Insufficient Access2 N 0Available Key to Locked Door4 Insufficient Emergency Training6 No Second Means of Egress5 Not Indicated29 *Adapted from Tables 1-6,AStudy of Penal Institution Fires,Boston: National Fire Protection Association, 1977,pp.1-3. 12 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I From your experience,what do you think are the motives forthe incendiaryfiresincorrectional institutions? Although the conclusions of the National Fire Protection Associa-tion study cannot be applied to all incendiary firesin correctional facilities,thepredominantmotivesreportedwere:toincrease chances of escape, to cause malicious damage as a protest against conditions,to show forceduring a riot,or to commit suicide. In every incendiary incident where the source of ignition was positivelyidentified,eitheramatch,smokingmaterial,or cigarette lighter was used to ignite the fire.The study shows that thisistobeexpected,sincesuch ignition materialsarethe ones most readily available to inmates. Principal materials first ignited were those that are found in a prison cell-mattresses, bedclothes, and personal clothing. Again, thisisnotsurprising,sinceseventy-fivepercentof allthefires studied originated in the occupants' cells.Finally, in many of the firesthereweresignificantdelaysinevacuationresultingfrom some aspect of security. It isclearthat incendiarism isasignificantfactorincorrec-tional facility fires.Too much emphasis can be placed upon the in-cendiaryfactor,however,asanexcusefornotpursuingfire protectionalternatives.Infact,therateofincendiarismin corrections isnot that significantly higher than the rate in other occupancies. Regardless,itisstillimperativetoreduceboththenumber andseverityofthesefires.Aswillbediscussedinsubsequent chapters,toachievethisgoal it isnecessarytostrengthen both fire prevention and protection methods, i.e., supervision, construc-tion,preplanning,suppression equipment,detection,and others. The next chapter will discuss how a systems approach provides an integratedmethodofanalyzingfireprotectionproblemsand developingfireprotectionandpreventionprograms.First,let's review. 13 SOURCE OF IGNITION PLACE OF ORIGIN CHAPTERREVIEW12 'rhe reviewsections of this manual provide ail opportunityforyoutomeasureyourunderstand-ingoftheinformationcontainedineachchapter. Tryto answer eachquestion without looking back throughthe chapter.Then check your response by referringbacktotheappropriatesectioninthe chapter. 1. 2. Contrast the type of fuels involved in correc-tionalfacilityfiresofthe1930'swiththe typeoffuelsinvolvedinfiresofthe1960's and1970's. Listfourcharacteristicscommontomost firesincorrectional facilities. a. 1:'ftl!";pe(Hl :;mv() (ISa WVlf)Whlfthonhltm:alcovmmJHI clldptpr or,Itl combmatlon With rtWlPW:;octlon:;,Widtotal Ioorl.t'VerJ\cll'I\Sl' W'PIlWl'rOr( Sul(1uoid H(lINI6(1uCAir 1....... t'rRt,JI.'I1Kt.inI';wut at Powl'r Jo'OIlu(1Poor Minll",11 Good Gond Gaoti Fllir Fair MmimaJ Table 5.2 SLIDINGDOORS DOOIt ByHlIndlit Door ByHundlit Door OyJ.UVllf (romControlCahillel Turning Whl'l'l ul Control ('ohinel OM Motor IH!rCeUliOl' pt'rrormsIflCklllJlnod dllor nlOVl'm(lnt functions (Jllt'molorlwrellch door unlot'kltnnd rnOVl't! JoorptlWf'r ofr, doormovement illbvhandonlyIltL'uch dnor Ai .. 'lrtVt'h bYlll'pomtt' unllat \'rtchdoor rpll'nsl.'(rom r-;JUtroll'lIhint'tin (I\'L'ntntllOWt'rfuilurtlByhnndutdoor SEClllll1'Y Ft:,\'I'UHt:S 811111110Pickinltdifficult -ItlVcrilf.:ll inkey(or ovcreomin"bolt frictionor WnnlaKO OPOflltcdfromSU((Ilocution Guardl10t pxpollt'dto many d01J1'8Electricunlocking & movcment Qf duols or mnnulIIunlocldug &mOVl'lltento( doo"s Inpower'rnilurl' (ronl Imme controlj,JIlCI f:ledric controls cnn boloentedaL ony point jl'dgt'd flilft'llt qultlt, lowIllnin tennm'e,VUfHlbllltorce IIPllliedtudoor incml'rlofenry Unlocked(rom ('leriric ('onlloloor kl!Y at dflor !.OCI((NGI UNLOCKING Nonc gloctric only !'lime with power 0(( Nonc Mechnnir:nl tndtctll\on ('onlltant mechanical indlcution withJloWl!7 Oilor 0(( Electric only Nomdicatlon withpower off Eketnconly NoIndicntlon withpOWeroff Ele{'tric only Noindication withIlOwer off OPEl'll CLOSE None None Door 8(11ectorshows pOlU-tion Mechnnlcnl tndknlion Constant mechllnicul indicntllm withpowcr off Eluetrle vnly Noindiclltion withpower off glcc1ric only-Noindiclltion withpOWl)roff Nono MECHANICAL ltELt;ASB NOlle NOOfJ Uy Icvllr ilL control l'II"ll1ot Fromullunl control cnblncl hll'l'llimlcu\mi' i()ckinKineV(lntor pOWcr (nilur(l Doorsr(llclllIed rromttHerllllttl emergencypoint other thun uflunl ('ontrol('uhanot Lever ntrontrul cubioct NOM IN1,'llIt:ANDI.rFg (lOSSIIHI.I'I'Yen' 1I0MAN ImllOIl NA NA NA NA (Low) Hrnlr ..... IMetit (IIigh) MrdiumlliKh l,ow l.ow None LtlvernQ:tlo( kl'Y uldsrel(lBMe ot bolt it bind InK oceura Uele980ondmovedoorsOJlon without elltenng nreR Hcl(lnHC andmovedoor8t)penwithout enteringnren IlBMO'fBCON-rltOL DOOHMVM'I', None NOlle {lqIHTn'flt29 Theseconsiderationsshouldbereflectedinanychecklist devisedforafacility.In ordertoassist you,achecklistofthose componentsofanautomaticsprinklersystem that shouldbein-spectedweeklyfollows.Thechecklistisgeneral;itismeantto serveasaguidelineonly,Athoroughandspecificlistshouldbe designed forthe sprinkler system in your facility. INSPECTION OFAUTOMATICSPRINKLER SYSTEMS CHECKLIST AUTOMATICSPRINKLERS Dosprinklers appear tobe ingood condition? Aresprinklersclean(i.e.,not dirty,painted orwhite-washed)? Are sprinklers free from physical damage? WET SYSTEMS Havealarmsbeentestedandaretheyingoodcon-dition? Have water flowtests been performed and are the re-sults normal? Arecoldweathervalvesopenorclosedasnecessary (seasonal)? Haveanti-freezesolutionsbeentestedandfoundin goodcondition (seasonal)? DRY SYSTEMS Havealarmsbeentestedandaretheyingoodcon-dition? Is the dry-pipe valve in good condition? Have water flowtests been performed and are the re-sults normal? Aretheprimingwater level,latchingarrangements, and automatic dripconnectionsnormal? Isthetemperatureofthe dry-pipevalve roomoren-closure adequate to prevent freezing(seasonal)? Isairsupplyadequate(airdryero.k.,powertocom-pressor on)? 104 YesNo Needs Maintenance (Location) I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ----Athoroughdiscussionofinspectionandmaintenanceof sprinklersystemscanbefoundinNFPA13A,Careand Maintenan,ceof SprinklerSystems.Thisrecommendedpractice presents detailed guidelines for the inspection and maintenance of alltypesIOfsprinkler systems. and suppression equipment availabletoday isade-quate to meet the needs of correctional facilities.Although detec-tion and Isuppression will not prevent the ignition of a fire,prompt detectiorlandsuppressionwillassurethat damageiskepttoa minimumand,mostimportantly,thatlivesarenotlost. Automaticsprinklersofferthegreatestmarginofsafetyforin-mates.Simply, sprinklers provide the most reliable detection and suppression available today. Just as necessary, however, is equip-mentformanualsuppression:portableextinguishers,self-contained breathing apparatus,and standpipes. Finally,consider organizingafirebrigade.Theadvantagesforfireprotectionare wellworth the investment. FoUowingisthechecklistfordetectionandsuppressionac-tivities. Be certain to examine it closely and then use the format to formulateamoreextensive checklist suited to the needs ofyour facility. Also, you may want to incorporate some or all of the items fromthe checklists on portable extinguishers,standpipes,and,if your facilityhas them,automatic sprinklers. YESNO DON'T KNOW CHECKLIST 1.Are portable fireextinguishers ofthe proper type and number available? 2.Is your facility protected by a complete heat detection or smoke detection system? 3.Isyourfacilityprotectedbyacompleteautomaticsprinkler system? 4.Aredetectionandlorsprinklersystemstestedonaregular basis? 5.Isthefiredetectionand/orsprinklersystem alarm connected directly to the local firedepartment? 6.Are firehose stations foruse by correctional officers provided and readily accessible? 7.Have all personnel been trained in the proper use of all fire pro-tection and fireextinguishing equipment? 105 8.Has the fire brigade (either staff or inmates) been provided with the proper firefighting equipment and training? 9.Can security be maintained while fire fighting operations are in progress? 10.Aretheremeanstostretch firehosesthrough doublesecurity gates(sallyports)sothat thegatescan beclosedand security maintained? Now,let's review the information on detection and suppression activities. CHAPTER REVIEW30 3UFollowttwItrue t lont; forttwCtlllptm uf CtlaptmOllt' 1. 2. 3. Define detection and suppression activities. Listthethreestagesofdetectionandsup-pression. a. b. c. Whichofthefollowingaremethodsof con-trol related to the goal of detection and sup-pression activities? a.Provide evacuation to secure area of refuge. b.Providereliablesuppres-sion. c.Providereliableearlywarn-ing detection. d.Providereliablealarm systems. e.Providefirebrigadetrain-ing. 4. 5. 6. 106 Comparedtoautomaticsystems,theprin-cipal shortcoming ofmanual systems is: a.proper equipment. b.inabilitytocompletelyex-tinguish a fire. ..- c.time. Explainbrieflywhyautomaticdetection andsuppressionsystemsaresuperiorto manual systems. (Refer to Fig.6.1.) Which of the following fire safety objectives are better met by using automatic systems? a.life safety b.property protection c.limited downtime d.security I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 7. 8. 9. Listthreereasonswhyvundalismisnota significant problem in correctional facilities with automatic sprinkler systems. a. b. c. Whichtypeofdetectionandalarmsystem provides occupants with a greater margin of safety forevacuation? a.manual b.automatic N arnethe three basic types of firedetecting devices. a. b. c. 10.Which firedetector would youchose forthe following hazards? a.Smoldering conditions h.Rapidly developing flaming conditions (e.g.,flammable liquid fires) 11.Listt:,woimportantfunctionsservedby alarm systems. a. b. 107 12.What basic problem do evacuation alarms in institutionssuchascorrectionalfacilities present? 13.Listfiveexamplesoffireprotection available forsuppression activities. a. b. c. d. e. 14.Listthreeofsixcriteriausedforselecting appropriate portable extinguishers. a. b. c. 15.Match the class of firein column A with its appropriate description in column B. A a.ClassA b.Class B c.Class C d.Class D B 1.Firesinvolvingenergizedelectrical equipment. 2.Firesinvolvingcombustiblemetals suchasmagnesium,t.itanium,and others. 3.Firesinvolvingflammableandcom-bustibleliquids,e.g.,oils,greases,oil-base paints, lacquers. 4.Firesinvolvingcommoncombustible materials such as wood,cloth,paper . 16.Onwhattypeoffireswouldaportableex-tinguisherrated4-Abeused?Howwould thisextinguishercomparetoonerated 20-A? 17.On what type of fireswould an extinguisher rated 5-B:Cbe used? 18.Listonedisadvantageofwater-basedpor-table extinguishers. 19.Locationsforportable extinguishers should beselectedthatwiIl(youmaycheckmore than one): a.Provideuniformdistribu-tion. b.Provide easy accessibility. c.Berelativelyfreefrom blockingbystorageand equipment. d.Benearnormalpathof travel. e.Befreefrompotentialof physical damage. f.Be readily visible. 20.OSHAregulationsrequirethat(checkap-propriate statements): a.Portableextinguisherswith agross weight exceeding 40 lbsbemountedsothatthe topoftheunitisnotmore thanthreeandone-halffeet abovethe floor. b.Portableextinguisherswith agrossweightof40lbsor lessbemountedsothat the topoftheunitisnotmore 108 thanfivefeetabovethe floor. c.rfhebottomofallportable extinguishersbemounteda minimumoffourinchesoff the floor. 21.Checkthetypeofself-containedbreathing apparatus(SCBA)most oftenfoundincor-rectional facilities. closed-circuittypewithcanister and breathing bag open-circuit"demand"or"pres-sure demand" I I I I I closed-circui.toxygen rebreathingI system 22.Identify the principal components of a water distribution system on the diagram below. 23.Matchtheclassofstandpipelistedincol-umn Awith its principaluserslisted in col-umnB. A a.Class I b.Class II c.ClassIII B 1.Providedforusebyfiredepartment andthosetrainedinhandlingheavy hose streams. I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I II I I I I I I I I I I I I I 2.Providedforusebybuildingoc-cupants. 3.Provided forusebyeither firedepart-mentandthosetrained inheavyhose streams, or by building occupants. 24.Adry standpipe system: a.has a permanent water supply. b.has no permanent water supply. 25.Match the following: a.Dry barrel hydrant b.Wet barrel hydrant 1.Used when weather conditions al'e such thatthereisnodangeroffreezing. (Also called California type.) 2.Usedwheneverthereisachanceof freezing. 26.The principal reason forunsatisfactory per-formance of sprinklers is: 27. 28. a. b. c. inadequatepartialprotec-tion. faulty design. watercontrolvalvesshut off. Briefly discuss the value of sprinkler protec-tion. Theprimarymethodofextinguishmentby sprinklers is: a. b. c. cooling and quenching burn-ing material. smotheringtheburning material. removing the fuel. 29.Listthefoul'basictypesofsprinkler systems. a. b. c. d. 30.A wet-pipe system is used primarily: a.inunheatedroomsor buildingswherethereis danger of freezing. b.inheatedareaswherethere is no danger of freezing. c.forspecial hazard situations involvingpossibleflash fires. 31.Anautomaticsprinklersystemdetectsthe presenceoffire,triggersanalarm,begins suppression: a.simultaneously b.sequentially 32.Sprinkler heads are rated according to: a. b. c. application requirements maximumceilingtempera-tures each of the above 33.List five of the seven basic considerations of inspectionandmaintenanceofautomatic sprinkler systems. a. b. c. d. ----------------e. 109 PLANNING AND TRAINING OPERATIONS I 1.Provide staff education and Chapter Seven training 2.Provide inmate education THE FIFTH GOAL: 3.Plan emergency procedures PLANNING AND TRAINING OPERATIONS OVERVIEW 1Thischapteroffersthegreatest opportunity for both Levell andLevel IIstudentstoworkonprojects (withoutanyexpenditures)thatwill dlrecllyaffectfiresafetyattheir facilityBeforebeginningthis chapter,obtaincopiesofany emergencyplansforyourfacility, You are more likely to have a not pro cedure inexistence than a fire safety evacualionplanorprocedure, As the last goal of the Simplified Fire Safety System for Cor-rectionalFacilities,planningandtrainingoperationsisnoless important than any other goal.Planning and training operations involvethought,analysis,imagination,andjudgment.Theyare the responsibilitiesofmanagementwhomustsystematicallyor-ganize all efforts in carrying out any decisions related to planning and training.These operations require an allocation of resources, especially human resources. In discussing planning andtraining operations,thischapter presentsreliabilityfactors,casehistoriesoffailure,methodsfor control,and available technology. Afterreadingthischapterandcompletingtheexercisesas directed,you willbe ableto dothe following: Define planning and training operations. Listthreemethodsforachievingplanningandtraining operation.s. Name two correctional facility fires in which planning and training operations failed. Identifythosemembersofthecorrectionscommunity whoshouldbeinvolvedineducationalprogramsap-propriate fortheir respective training. Identifyfivecharacteristicsofaneffectiveemergency operating plan. eListfivestepsinvolvedinpreparinganemergency operating plan. Explain any impact the inmates' rights issue may have on methods forachieving planning and training operations. 110 I II I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Beforebeginningthischapter,youmaywanttousethe glossary to review any of the followingterms with which you are not familiar. emergency operating procedures firebrigade software Planningandtrainingoperationsconstitutetheconceptof2 planningemergencyoperatingproceduresandconductingtrain-ing activities.Planning andtraining promotesmoreefficient im-plementationoftheothergoalsoftheSimplifiedFireSafety System,thereby giving them amuch greater chance forsuccess. Planning and training will not, however,work alone. Two case histories illustrate this point. Although lack of planning and train-ing operations contributed tothe fivedeaths at theFederal Cor-rectionalInstitutionatDanbury,Connecticut,attheSt.John, NewBrunswickfacility,planningandtrainingtookplace,yet twenty-one inmates still died. Whatothergoalof theSimplifiedFireSafetySystematSt. JohnandDanburyfailedsosignificantlythatplanningand training operationshad littleeffect? In both ofthese fires,the type and quantity of fuelwas so deadly thatmanualsuppressioncouldnotoffsetthefueloverload.To assume that planning and training operationswillprovide afire safe environment and eliminate the potential risk of fire is to court disaster.Efficientplanningandeffectivetrainingprograms, however,canhelpmakeamarginalfiresafetysystem effective. When firedefenses are basically weak, these two factorscan help reduce the impact of a potentially disasterous fire. Howcan planning and training helpreducefire'simpact when firedefenses areweak? 111 ...___"".,__. _ n _PLANNINllANDTRAININGOPERA TIONS Definition CLll'''HlstOllUUofFailure MettlOds 1 2 3 ReasonsforCostEffectlvenElSS DEFINITION RELIABILITY METHODS OF CONTROL AVAILABLE SOFTWARE Planningandtrainingcanoffersomeassurancethat personnel, especiallythoseinvolvedinfightingthefireandevacuating in-mates,willperformtheirdutieseffectivelyandwillnotpanic under emergency conditions.Also,by maintaining control of the situation, the occupants are less likely to panic. In this way the ef-fect of the unreliable human factor isminimized. Planningandtrainingoperationsdonotusuallyrequirea substantialcapitalinvestment.Butacommitmenttoa systematicefforttowardcertaindecisionsthatmeettheneeds dictated by the fire safety objectives is required. In fact, planning andtr.ainingoperationscanbeanextremelycost-beneficial method of assuring that the other system goalswill reach stated objectives - life safety in particular, but also property protection, security,andlimiteddowntime.Thiscost-effectivefactorisil-lustrated by the following examples. First,automaticdetectionandalarmsystemsprovidea greater margin ofsafety forevacuation of building occupants.If evacuation procedureswereincludedin planning operationsand firedrillswereconductedaspartoftrainingopsl.'ations,the margin of safety would be extended, thus increasing the reliability of detection and suppression activities. Second,planning and training are particularly important for maintainingahighlevelofsecurityduringafire.For example, both gates of a sallyport (security vestibule) cannot be shut at the sametimeif afirehose isstretched throughthem to afirearea. Proper planning ahead of time can provide either acut-out in the gate to accommodate a fire hose or permanent piping through the sallyport,allowingbothgatestobeclosedandsecuritytobe maintained. Themethodsforachieving planning andtraining operations are:providestaff education andtraining;provideinmate educa-tion;and plan emergency procedures.Thesemethodsemphasize that planning and training operations can help to make a marginal firesafetysystemeffective,usuallywithoutamajorfiscal commitment. Previouschapters discussedthe technologythat isavailable to help achieve each goal. Most of this technology involves equip-ment or hardware,forexample,lockingsystemsandsprinklers. Forplanningandtrainingoperations,however,itismoreap-propriatetotalk aboutsoftware.For acorrectionalfacility,fire protectionsoftwarereferstoeducationalortrainingprograms and emergency operating procedures. Onefeatureof most software isits relatively lowcost of im-plementation. Most educational and training programs require lit-112 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ------------_._-------------- ----I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I tIecapital investment,especiallysince much of the expertise for trainingbothstaffandinmatesmayalreadyexistin-house. Moreover, audiovisual presentations on fire-related subjects, such ashowto use portable extinguishers,are readilyobtainableand relativelyinexpensive.Timeandanorganizedapproacharethe costs of developing successful educational and training programs and emergencyoperating procedures. In your facility,whoshould have education and training in fire safebehavior and practices? Therearethreegroupsofpersonnelwhorequireeducationand trainingrelatedtofiresafety:staff,includingmanagement,in-mates, and the facility fire brigade. All staff and inmates should be involved in afiresafety pro-gram.Fire safe behavior is everyone's concern.Not only does fire safe behavior helpto minimize the number of fire incidents, but it also helpsto reduce the potential forlarge-scale property and life lossesshouldafireoccur.The usual victimsof fire,the inmates, maybehighlymotivatedtolearnbasicfactsrelatedtofire hazardsandtheirabilitytoprotectthemselvesduringafire emergency.Staff memberswillincreasetheirabilityto maintain security, safeguard lives, and protect property during a fire if they are given proper information and drilled in its use. Tomaximizeeffectiveness,firesafetyprogramsmustbe tailoredtotheindividualfacility.Thesizeandageofthe buildings,the securityclassificationofthefacilityand itsprox-imity to municipal fire departments are only some of the variables that must be carefully considered in developing programs.There are alsotwo problemsin implementing firesafety programs that allfacilitiesshould recognizeinitially:(1)the operationallimita-tions created by participants who require restriction and routine, and(2)thefinanciallimitationsoffacilitieswhichnormally operateonpublicfunds.Tooffsetthese limitations,it isimpor-tant tokeepinmindthe motivation providedbythe instinctof self-preservation and the motivation initiated by the legal implica-tions of inmates' rights. Althoughfiresafetyprogramsforstaff personnelwillvary fromfacilityto facility,certain aspectsshould be commonto all comprehensive educational and training programs. 113 3 3, EDUCA TlONAL AND TRAINING PROGRAMS Program Participants EDUCATIONALANDTRAINING PROGRAMS Problems Variables inDevelopingPrograms StaffPrograms InmatePrograms Thecontentofthisdiscussionis aimed primarily at the Levell student whowillberesponsiblefor establishingandimplementingtrain-Ingprograms,However,theLevelII studentmayhavevaluablesugges-tionsaboutwhatbothstaffandIn-matesregardaspotentialareasfor training, Staff Programs History of the problem.Any type of program isdesigned to solve a particular problem or fill a specific need. A short description ofthe background and evolution ofthe prob-lem servesto put the educational and training process in perspective.It also helps to motivate staff personnel and gets them involved in the education and training process. Theseweretheobjectivesofthefirstchapterinthis manual. Hazards of fire.Understanding what contributes to a fire hazard,forexample,improperstorage offlammableand combustibleliquidsandoverloadedelectricalcircuits, provides an overview of the fire problem in a correctional facility.Included inthisaspectof tfiresafety program wouldbethe prevention and reduction of firehazards. Availablefireprotectiontechnology.Afiresafetypro-gramhastoprovideabasicfamiliaritywiththefire protectiontechnologyavailableforapplication incorrec-tionalfacilities.Theneducationandtrainingbecomes specific to the available technology at the particular facil-ity.Thisincludes:hands-ontrainingwherenecessary (portablefireextinguishers),location,operation,and maintenanceofvarioussystems(sprinklersystems, standpipeandhosesystems),andequipment(hydrants, firepumps). Emergencyoperatingprocedures.Thisincludesevacua-tion plans and responsibilities of staff and fire brigade (for example, operation of standpipes and hoses,and notifica-tion of the firedepartment).Emergency operating proce-dures will be discussed in more det.ailloter in this section. Potential problemsrelatedtoaparticularfacility.Each facilityhasitsownuniqueproblemsthat impact onfire safety, for example, type of building construction, interior finish,typeoffuel,andnumberofinmatesincellsor cellblockareas.Thesepotentialproblemsmustbeiden-tifiedsothattherewillbenosurprisesduringafire emergency. 'rhereareanynumberofprepackagedprogramsavailable from audiovisual producers and distributors such as the Matthew M.BradyCo.,Bowie,Maryland;theNationalFireProtection Association,Boston,Massachusetts;andtheFactoryMutual System,Norwood,Massachusetts.These programscover awide rangeofinformationonfiresafebehaviorandprocedures,in-cludingsprinklersystems,thechemistyoffire,andhowto organizefirebrigades.However,theiruseinacomprehensive educational and training program must be supplemented with in-formationthat isspecificto each facility. 114 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 5,ThiSsection onfire brigades can beconsideredmotivationalaswell aseducational.ItISfromthese students - pnmanly LevelIIperson-nel-- thatyourfacilitywillmakeup Itsfirebrigade,Ifpersonnelrealize thatthere isa genuine need for a fire brigadeandthatitistotheiradvan-tagetosupportandjoinone.then yourfacIlity should havelittle trouble obtainingvolunt""wsforit sibilitiesmayincludecallingthefiredepartment,safeguarding lives,providingmanualsuppressiontocontrolthefireuntilthe firedepartment arrives,and protecting equipment. These respon-sibilities,however,can be carried out only if the brigade is prop-erly organized,trained,and equipped. In its simplest formthe firebrigade organization consistsof themanagerofthefacilityassistedbyselectedpersonnel.Fire brigade members are often trustees and/or staff members with an interestinfireprotection.It isusuallybest toselectvolunteers 5whowilltakeaninterestinfirebrigadeactivities.Inlarge facilities,personnel should be organized into separate fire fighting teamsassignedtopredeterminedareas.Theavailabilityoffire fightingassistance fromapublic or private firedepartment may affect the nature of the firebrigade organization. Brigade Training:A schedule of training should be established for members of the brigade. Members should be required to complete a specifiedprogramof instructionasaconditionof membershipin thebrigade.Trainingsessionsshouldbeheldatleastmonthly. Members of the brigade should be instructed in the handling of any and all fire and rescue apparatus provided. Training should include firefighting with portable extinguishers, using hose lines,venting of buildings,and performing related rescueoperations. Assistance in setting upand training the firebrigade can be obtainedfromoutsideagencies.Amongthesearemunicipalfire departments,state fireschools,statefiremarshals'offices,and anyotheragencywherefireservicetrainingisgiven.Further guidance on organizing and training can be obtained fromNFP A 27,Private Fire Brigades, and the NFPA Industrial Fire Brigade Training Manual. BrigadeEquipment:Thebrigadeshouldbeprovidedwitha variety of equipment and enough tools to enable it to perform the serviceforwhichitwasorganized.It istheresponsibilityof management to see that this equipment is provided. The following isalistofsomeoftheprincipalcategoriesofequipmentthat should be considered. Portable fireextinguishers. Hoseandhoseaccessories,includinghydrantwrenches, hydrant valves, ropetoolsor hose straps, rope,combina-tionshutoffnozzles,gatedwyes,doublefemalehose couplings,and hosespanners. Portablelightingequipment,includingportableelectric generators, hand lanterns, and a supply of extra batteries. Forcibleentry tools,including axes,saws,plaster hooks and pike poles,clawtools,dooropeners,and crowbars. 116 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I II i il II I I I !I I I I I I I I I I I I Ladders,consisting of aselection of sufficient length for the work required. Salvageequipment,includingsalvagecovers,brooms, and squeegees. Rescue and first-aid equipment. The exact equipment pro-vided should be governed by the extent to which members of the brigade have been trained in its use. It may include first-aidkitsandresuscitationequipment- inhalator, resuscitator,ormodificationofthesedeviceswithspare cylindersofair oroxygen where needed. Spare and replacement equipment. This category includes those items which may require periodic replacement,and mayincludefusiblelinksforfiredoors,automatic sprinklerheads,and extinguisher seals. Personal protective equipment,including helmets,coats, gloves,andrubberboots.Ropetoolsandself-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)may be included,depending onthe extent to whichmembers are trained in their safe and effective use. Vehicles.Depending on the size and responsibility of the fire brigade, the need foremergency vehicles will vary. It may range from a simple push cart containing emergency equipmenttoafull-sizefiretruck.(seeNFPA19, Automotive Fire Apparatus). Theorganization,training,andequippingofafirebrigade, unlike programs forstaff and inmates, require a certain capital in-vestment(dependingonthesizeandextentofthebrigade).A properlytrainedandequippedbrigade,however,maymeanthe differencebetweenaminorfireemergencyandlifeanddeath. Moreover, it is the obligation of every facility to be able to defend itself;afirebrigade helps fulfillthat need. One of the most effective means your correctional facility has8 forpreventing afiredisaster isan emergencyoperating planor procedure. Instruction in such a procodure should be incorporated into any educational and training firesafety program since it in-volvesstaff personnel,inmates,and the firebrigade,all working together on planning for an emergency. The ability of any facility to minimize the risks to life and property during a fire emergency depends on the extent of preparation beforehand. Thepurpose of an emergency operating plan isto provide a guide for evaluating the particular problems at hand and for coor-dinatingthe responseof the firebrigadeandfiredepartment as well as the action of staff and inmates. Aneffectiveemergencyoperatingplanhascertain characteristics. 117 EMERGENCYOPERATINGPRO-CEDURES Purpose Characteristics Stepsinpreparinganemergency operatingprocedure. EMERGENCY OPERATING PROCEDURES Purpose Characteristics Planning Team 7.AlthoughItISImportantforboth LevelIandl.evelIIpersonnelto undmctandtheneedfor.andtobe awareof.thebasIcprinciplesIn volvedIr1planning.mostofthe responsibilityfordesigningandim plementlng plans Willbe Inthe hands of supervisory personnel.Thus.tailor your discusSionaccordingly. Preparationof the Plan Simple.Althoughallroles,responsibilities,andcon-tingenciesshouldbeclearlydefinedinaplan,toomuch detail can hinder flexibility. Comprehensive.An emergencyoperating plan should in-cludeprovisionsforallcircumstancesthatcanbe reasonablyanticipated.Theplanshoulddefinethe roles ofallpersonnelandequipmentwhomightbeinvolved both within and outside the facility. Specific.A plan should be uniquely tailored to the needs, resources,and capabilities of the individual facility.Also, aplan should addressthe different amounts of personnel and equipment that are demanded by the variousstages of response. Flexible.Aplanshouldbeflexibleenoughsothatpro-cedurescan be adapted to any unusual circumstances as wellas probable emergencies. Workable.A plan should relate to everyday operations of the facility. rfo maintain this workability, a plan should be updated or revised periodically. Thedevelopmentofanemergencyoperatingplanisnotan easy task. But any plan should be carefully evaluated according to thecharacteristicsdiscussedabove.Yourfacilitymayalready havecontingencyplansforotheremergencieswhichcanbe modifiedto includefireemergencies. The responsibility for preparing an emergency operating plan should be delegated to atask forceor team.Ideally,such ateam will consist of representatives from management (for example, the wardenorassistantwarden),staff,inmates,andfirebrigade 7members.Thetaskforceorteamshouldalsoreceiveadviceor assistance fromrepresentativesofthe localfiredepartment and lawenforcement agency.Ambulanceand rescueservicesaswell asthe state police might alsobe included in this group. Success in preparing the plan is dependent upon coordinating the efforts of all involved.A useful approach is to appoint project coordinators whose responsibility it isto decide what needs to be done,who will do it,where and how it willbe done,and when the various assignments will be completed. As in any maj or undertak-ing, a planning schedule will help to facilitatethe process by pro-viding checkpoints forcompletion of subtasks. 8Preparinganeffectiveemergencyoperating plancanbeac-complished in fivesteps. 1.Definethepotentialfireprotectionproblemsinthepar-ticular correctional facility. 118 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Nameseveral potential fireprotection problems inyour correc-tionallacility. Potentialproblemswill,ofcourse,varyfromfacilitytofacility. Specificproblems,manyofwhichh:1.vebeenmentionedprevi-ously,includethelocationandtypeofhazards(forexample, flammableliquidsstorage roomsand padded cells),typeandar-rangementofcombustiblematerialsincellsandcellblockareas (forexample,mattressesandotherfurnishingsorinterior finishes),and other variables such as age of buildings and type of construction.It isalsonecessarytoweightheeffectofthe security issue onany potential problem. 2.Set objectives forthe plan - that is,what youcan expect the plan and portions of it to do for the facility in an emergency. A specificobjectiveforanemergencyplanmaybetoevacuatea number of cellblock areas within two minutes of the alarm with no breachofsecurity.Anotherobjectivemaybetonotifythefire departmentwithintwentysecondsofdiscoveringignition. Notification of the fire department should be confirmed even if the alarm system notifies it automatically. 3.Determinethefacility'scapabilityforcontrollingan emergencysituation.Identifyingandassessingpotentialprob-lemshelpto definethe specific resourcesneeded to control afire emergencyinafacility.In ordertodeterminewhichcontrolac-tionsare possible fora specific situation, it is necessary to inven-tory the fireprotection resources available to the facility in terms ofamountandconditionofsuppressionequipment,firedepart-ment response,personnel,sizeandcapabilitiesof afirebrigade, sprinklersystems,self-containedbreathingapparatus,andimy other available emergency assistance. 4.Definethe rolesofthe responding agencies,especiallythe firedepartment and the firebrigade.Included in this fourth step is assigning the responsibility for notifying the fire department. It is also necessary to establish the role of a liaison between the fire departmentandfirebrigadeandtoassignwhohasthe overall responsibility forthe operations at the facility.The responsibility forclean-up,salvage,andrestorationoffireprotectionsystems should be clearly specified,but will probably be the job of the fire brigade. 5.Put the information into written form.Whenthe p r e p r ~tionand information-gathering tasks of the plan havebeen com-119 LEVELSI ANDII Prepannganemergencyoperating procedurE!. ConceptThestaffofa correctional facilityreprnsentsttHlmostqualified groupforpreparmganemergency operatingprocedure Activity (1)DIVideclassIntogroups. (2)ASSigneachgroupthetaskof prHpannganemergencyprocedure fora different location ofthefacility. e.g.,sleepingareaS(cellblocks), dininghall,recreationalroom.The areasshouldbecllosenbecauseof theirhighhazardprobability-eitherfromaCCidentalordeliberate Ignition. (3)Haveeachgroupcomplete preliminarysteps14Inpreparing planaccordingtothoseoutlinedon theprevIouspagesoftext. (4)Aftercompletingsteps14, have each group write anemergency procedureforitsassignedlocation Theprocedureshouldbesetupac cordingtoa priorityofactionstobe taken. ConsiderationswouldInclude: aNotificationoffiredepartment emergencymedicalpersonnel,and outSidelawenforcementagencies. b.Evacuationprocedures. C.Personnelcalllist. d.Useofavailablefireprotection equipment. e.Roleoffirebrigade. fEstablishmentofaltemativecom mandcenter. g.Chainofcommand. hResponsibil1l1esofinvolvedper sonnel. 1. MeansofupdatingandreVISing plan. j.Formatforfiredrillstotestplan. k.Roleoffiredepartment and provi sionsforitssecurity. I.Communications,bothInternal andexternal. (5)Whenplanshavebeencom pleted,arrangeformembersoffire departmenttoreviewplansand determinefeasibilityforfirefighting operations. 9MakesomeofttleseeXisting plansaV(lIlubloforstudontstoex-amineInordertomakeformulation oftheirplansoatller 10. 11 iI '1LEVELI Concept:Supervisoryr.oersonnel shouldbeabletosuggestprlll:tlcal, cost-effectiveIdeasundsuggestions forimplementingeducationaland trainingprogramsandemergency operatingprol:edures EXisting Emergency Plans ActiVity (1)ASSignonemothodorsoft-ware"tectmologi'toeuchgroup. Eactl(jroupWillpreparetodefendJ pOSitionrelatedtotheiraSSigned method.nlHdefenseWillbeb a s ~ donany workable Ideasthey havefor-mulutedforImplemenllng(tlePOSI-tion (2)SamplePoSItion Stafftraining.StafftralnmgIS themost CritiCal element of an Elffectlvefiresafety system InmateeducationAthor-oughInmateeducationpro-gram can beIncorporated into thefiresafety systemWithout compromlsmgsecurityor operallonalprocedures. Firedrills:Firedrillscanllnd mustoccuronafrequent baSIS. FirebrigadeAnInmateor stafffirebrigadeISaViable resourceforanyInstitution Emergencyoperatingpro-cedures'Apre-fireplan shouldbedevelopedWiththe activepartiCipationofall aVllllableoutSideresources (3)Eactl group Willhave a speCific timeperiod.e.g,tenminutes,to preparedefenseofpOSitionrelated toaSSignedmethod (4)Inaddition,eachgroup willbe responSibleforquestioningotMr positionsuSinganumberofkey questions Key OUe(ltlOns WhoshouldbeInVOlved') Inwhatfunction? CantheelementbeInserted IntoeXistingprogramsor operationalprocedures? WhatresourcescanbetuP-ped? WhatmnovatlvepoliCiescan begenerated') What questions Willbe asked? pleted,theinformationwillhavetobeorganized,tested,written into a formaldocument, reviewed, and distributed. How the infor-mationfortheplanisorganizeddependsuponwhatismost beneficial tothefacility.Although the plan may bearranged in a numberof ways,it isimportanttoconsider:the particular prob-lems and hazardsinvolved;the possible locations foran incident; andthe roles andresponsibilities of responding personnel.Proper organizationandevaluationofthewrittenplanwillassurethat the response isneithertoogreat nortoosmall forthe emergency at hand. It ishelpfultolookatgeneralemergencyplansthathave alreadybeendevelopedbyindividualcorrectionalfacilities. 9Although such plans address problems that are specific to the par-ticularfacilities,theycanstillbeusefulasguidesindeveloping plansforyourfacility. Themosteffectiveemergencyoperating plansarecontained withinacomprehensiveeducationalandtrainingfiresafety pro-gram.The OhioState Reformatory inMansfield,Ohio,forexam-ple,hasa five-partfiresafety programthat includes preplanning firegroundoperationsandestablishingaworkingrelationship with local firedeparments, as well as preventing and reducing fire hazards,developing and upgrading firefighting systems and pro-tective equipment,andstaff training. Twoothersuccessfultraining programsarethosedeveloped bytheDallasjails(localandcounty)andbytheLosAngeles County Jail.'I'hereare,of course,others.However,the firststep in any firesafety program is making the commitment to planning andtraining:that is,anallocationof resourcesintermsof both financialandtimecommitmentsfrommanagement,andthain-volvementof allstaff.Inmatesmust bemadetorealizethat fire safety programs may benefit them the most and require some par-ticipation by them. Remember,planning and training by themselves will not pro-vide a firesafe environment.However,planning and training can be an extremely cost-beneficial method forincreasing the reliabili-ty of the other system goals in reaching the firesafety objectives. Further,if firedefenses arebasically weak, planning and training 10canhelpreducethe impactof a potentially disastrousfire. Thesequestionswillalsohelpm preparingdefense ofPOSition (5)EachgroupWillhavefive mmutestoreporttheirdefenseand livemmutestoanswerquestions fromtheothergroups.Remamlng groups listen to and record Ideas and suggeslionsmadebythepresentmg group. 120 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I i I Following is the last part of the fire safety checklist for COl'rec- 11 tionalfacilitiesthatwebeganinChapterThree.Thecompleted checklistprovidesaguidelineforevaluatingthegoalsofthe SimplifiedFireSafety System. CHECKLIST YESNO DON"r KNOW 1. 2, 3, 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. Does each building have awrittenfireemergency plan detail-ing staff action during a fireemergency? Doeseachshiftpracticethefireemergencyplanatleast quarterly? Are new employees briefed on the fireemergency plan? After each practiced fire emergency drill, is a critique performed in order to evaluate and update the fireemergency plan? Doesyouremergencyplanprovideforreliablereleaseof in-mates to a secure yard orother area in case of fire? Is there a reliable method of notifying corrections officers that a fire emergency is in progress? Have inmates been instructed in emergency procedures in case of fire? Have inmates been given firesafety briefings? Has the local fire department been involved in the formulation of your fireemergency plan? Has the localfiredepartment been briefedon building condi-tions,contents, and fire fighting facilities within the complex? Have you provided the opportunity forand assisted the local firedepartment in the prefire planning of the facility? Is the firedepartment the first to be notified in the event of a fireemergency?(3)Fromthislistoftenproblem areas,eachgroupistoarriveata Activity: consensusofthefivemostcritical problemareas. Now, let's review. (1)Explaintostudentsthatthey aretolookuponthisactivityasif theyaremembers of a taskforceor planningteam. (4)Usingthislistoffiveareas eachgroupshouldidentifyoneor twospecificmethodsforcorrecting eachproblem area. iI! :\Ii I.. 11 .LEVELII Concept:Correctionsofficials shouldbeabletomakeajudgment onthemost criticalfirehazardsand problems intheir facility and suggest meansofcorrectingthem.ThiSac tivityshouldsyntheSizetheinforma tlonlearnedfromcompletingthe checklist. (2)UsingthelistOflistsofprob lemareasstudentshavedeveloped inpreviousgroupdiscussions(e.g. thosethatwereusedincompleting thechecklist),eachstudentshould list thetenhazards or problem areas in their facility which they conSider to bemostcriticalandinneedof1m correction. 121 (5)Aseachgroupspokesperson readsthe group's report, copy the in' formationonthechalkboard. (6)Whenallgroupshave reported,askfora classconsensus ofthefivemostcriticalproblem areas(chosenfromal\grouplists) andthebestmethodfor achievinga solutiontoeach problem. CHAPTER REVIEW 1212.Followtileinstructions specifiedfortheChapterReviewIn ChapterOne 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Definethe concept of planning and training operations. Whichcasehistorybestillustratesthe disastrousresultsofthelackofplanning and training operations? a.Oregon State Penitentiary b.FederalCorrectionalIn-stitution at Danbury c.SaintJohnCityDetention Center Whichofthefollowingis/aretrueofplan-ning and t.raining operations? a. b. Helpmakeamarginalfire safetysystemmoreeffec-tive. Minimize effect of unreliable human factors. c.Canprovideafiresafeen-vironment. d.Extremelycost-beneficial methodofincreasingreli-abilityofothersystem goals. WhichoftheobjectivesoftheSimplified FireSafetySystemdoplanningandtrain-ing operations help reach? Methodsforachievingplanningandtrain-ing operations are: a.Providestaff educationand training. 6. 7. 8. 9. 122 b. c. d. e. f. g. Provideforcommunication with local fire department. Provide inmate education. Practice firedrills. Train firebrigade. Provide formeans of egress. Plan emergency procedures. Whichgroupsofpeopleincorrectional facilitiesrequireeducationandtrainingin firesafety programs? (check one) a.staff b.inmates c.both staff and h\mates How is the effectiveness of~ ~ ; r e safety pro-gram fora facility maximit""W Critical problems for aU facilities in develop ing firesafety program::; are: a. b. c. d. Maintaining security during a fireamergency. Lack of sprinkler protection. Poorcommunicationbe-tweenfiredepartmentsand brigades. Financial limitations. List fiveaspects common to all comprehen-sive educational and training programs. a. b. c. I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I . ~ ~ ~ --I I I I I I II I I I I I I I I I I I I d. e. 10.Whichofthefollowingare necessaryparts of afire safety program forinmates? ---a.Sprinkler maintenance. ----b.Fire drills. ---c.Useofportableextin-guishets. d.Use of standpipes and hoses. e.Use of self-contained breath-ing apparatus. f.Rescue operations. ---g.Personalactionsduringan emergency. 11.List four responsibilities of afirebrigade. a. b. c. d. 12.List four aspects that should be included as part of the training of afirebrigade. a. b. c. d. 13.Statebrieflythepurposeofanemergency operating plan. 14.What are the five characteristics of an effec-tive emergency operating plan? a. b. c. d. e. 15.List the individuals you would want to have on atask forcewhose responsibility it isto developanemergencyoperatingplanfor your correctional facility. 16.Namethefivestepsinpreparingan emergency plan. Step 1:____________ Step 2:_____________ Step 3: Step 4:_____________ Step 5:____________ 123 OVERVIEW 1,Thischapter isdirected towards LevelI personnel.Althoughselected LevelIIpersonnel should beinvolved ina planningteamortaskforce,the basicfunctionofplanningisa managementtooi.Informstudents thattheywill be working ondevelop-inga comprehensivefiresafety plan fortheirfacility, PLANNING AS ATOOLOF MANAGEMENT ".. 'I I I Chapter EightI I DEVELOPING APLAN VSINGTHE SIMPLIFIED SYSTEM Thefirstsevenchaptersofthisbookhaveprovidedreaders with the knowledge and information needed to improve fire safety in their respective facilities.In thischapter, readersare asked to applytheknowledgegainedinpreparingacomprehensivefire 1safetyplan.Thechapterpresentsguidelinestoaccomplishthis assignment. It pulls together all of the information related to the SimplifiedFireSafetySystem,considerscostalternatives,and asksthe readerto make acommitment to translate the informa-tionintoaviableplan.Thechapteralsoaddressestypesand sourcesof financialand technical assistance. Afterreadingthischapterandcompletingtheexercisesas directed by the text, you will be able to dothe following: Outline acomprehensive plan to improve the level of fire safetyatyourfacilityusingtheSimplifiedFireSafety System. Comparethecostsand firesafety impact ofthe various alternatives of your plans. List fiveareasand two sourcesof technical assistance. Describe three typesof financialassistance. Planning is a basic function of management. Within the broad areaof planning arethe specific tasks of formulating objectives, devisingastrategyforachievingtheobjectives,setting upthe operations, and allocating the resources to achieve the objectives. 124 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ------',----_._-------- -- ----I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Planningdetermineswhatdemandswillbemadeuponthere-sources and orders the priorities of the various operations needed toachievetheobjectives.Planninghelpsmanagementcharta coursetodayto meettomorrow'sgoals,therebygiving manage-mentsomeassurancethatthefutureit anticipateswillbecome reality. Effectiveplanningincludesshort- andlong-rangegoals. Short-rangegoalsanddecisionsmustbebuiltintolong-range planning.Withouttheguidepostsoftheshort-rangegoals,the long-range goals will be difficultto accomplish. Althoughbothshort- andlong-