Algorithm of actions of fire service to extend high-pressure hoses when extinguishing a fire on the railway

Abstract

Purpose. Rail transport is one of the safest types of transportation, however, train accidents and catastrophes entail loss of life and significant property damage. A topical issue is the uninterrupted fire suppressant supply in case of fires on the railway. The authors present the results of an experiment on the development of a connecting device prototype to extend high-pressure hoses during firefighting. Methods. The authors have applied a comprehensive analysis of situational factors on the basis of practical experience in conducting fire extinction, preliminary planning and descriptions of the operational situation at a fire scene. The simulation of fire unit actions in extinguishing a fire on the route between stations has been carried out. Tests of the developed sample, a connecting device for high-pressure hoses, have been carried out as well. Findings. The authors have determined a significant degree of influence of fire unit actions on the effectiveness of performing the major combat mission, as well as the possibility of using the optimized management task route by the Fire-Ground Commander. The author team has developed a connecting device prototype to extend high-pressure hoses during fire fighting. Research application field. The study results are aimed at rationalizing the fire extinguishing process and organizing management to perform the main combat mission on the infrastructure of rail-type transport. The results can be applied to improve the forces of units involved in performing the main combat mission, increase the training facilities and capacities of Fire Service and introduce fire protection educational institutions into the process of training as well. Conclusions. The results of the experiment on the development of a connecting device prototype to extend high-pressure hoses during fire fighting in hard-to-reach places are presented. An algorithm for using a high-pressure hose in railway transport is proposed. It will allow reducing the consumption of a fire extinguishing agent relative to normal pressure hoses and increasing the distance for its use.