What do multiple alarms mean in fires?

The term multiple-alarm is a quick way of indicating that a fire is severe and is difficult to contain. This system of classification is used by both fire departments and news agencies.

What is a 4 alarm fire mean?

FOUR ALARM FIRE A four-alarm fire is a catastrophic fire event that happens only a couple of times a year for most city fire departments. If a dispatch call goes out for a four-alarm fire, you can expect up to 21 emergency vehicles, including 6 battalion chiefs.

What is a three alarm fire?

1. A fire that is so large or intense that it requires the presence of many firefighting units to try to contain it. A three-alarm fire is the reason we heard all of those sirens last night.

What is a five alarm?

five-alarm (not comparable) (firefighting) The highest priority category of a multiple-alarm fire. hypernym ▼ Having a high intensity or extreme heat.

How are fires classified by alarm?

One-alarm fire (called a box alarm by LFD): 20 firefighters (five four-person units) and two members of command staff; three pumper trucks and two other trucks. Two-alarm fire: 40 firefighters and four members of comand staff; double the trucks. Three-alarm fire: 60 firefighters, six from command staff.

What is a chlorine fire?

FIRE FIGHTING INFORMATION: Chlorine reacts violently with many organic compounds, ammonia, hydrogen, and finely divided metals, causing fire and explosion hazards. The agent may ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.). Fire will produce irritating, corrosive, and/or toxic gases.

What does 3rd alarm fire mean?

Sal Melendez. One-alarm fire (called a box alarm by LFD): 20 firefighters (five four-person units) and two members of command staff; three pumper trucks and two other trucks. Two-alarm fire: 40 firefighters and four members of comand staff; double the trucks. Three-alarm fire: 60 firefighters, six from command staff.