Chapter 8 Flashcards
Fire Prevention Functions (16 cards)
Define
Habitable space
The areas within a structure normally occupied by humans for living, cooking, eating, and sleeping; halls, closets, bathrooms, storage rooms, utility rooms, and similar areas are not considered habitable space
Define
Professional registration
A state-required licensure system for professionals such as engineers and architects.
What are some functions sometimes considered “nontraditional” for fire departments/prevention bureaus?
Construction regulation, hazardous materials regulation/investigation, and civil defense.
What is the primary mission that a fire prevention bureau should ensure is not lost when taking on nontraditional roles?
Property protection and safety from fire.
In fire departments where construction regulation is integrated, who might the building official report to?
The fire chief or fire marshal.
According to the text, what different areas of inspection each require a different level of knowledge and experience?
Fire prevention, building construction, property maintenance, and zoning inspections.
What type of code provides minimum standards for existing structures regarding conditions like light, ventilation, heating, sanitation, life safety, and fire safety?
Property maintenance codes.
Beyond building occupants, who else does hoarding jeopardize the safety of?
First responders (firefighters).
What types of equipment are listed as major causes of fires when faulty or improperly maintained?
Heating, lighting, ventilation, and electrical distribution equipment.
Why do property maintenance code inspections have significant potential to reduce civilian fire deaths and injuries?
Due to the high rate of civilian deaths and injuries that occur in residences
How can community concerns about inspection programs being intrusive be mitigated?
Through frequent contact among code officials and civic, religious, and social groups.
What is one of the most important objectives of property maintenance codes regarding vacant/abandoned properties?
Securing them to prevent unsafe or illegal activities (as these properties are often involved in fires and firefighter fatalities).
Why are fire prevention bureaus often involved in regulating hazardous materials and investigating environmental crimes beyond the fire code?
Due to their expertise regulating storage, handling, and use of hazardous materials, and similarities between fire scenes and hazardous waste crime scenes.
What key roles do fire prevention bureaus play related to emergency access and plans?
Extensive knowledge/experience with fire department access roads, emergency egress/ingress, special locking arrangements, and ensuring emergency plans/security measures don’t conflict with response procedures.
What are safety and security described as depending on?
Effective communications and cooperation among all agencies, businesses, and industry.
