One of the most critical and dangerous tasks at a fire scene is the primary search. This operation is conducted across various fire scenarios, from small fires affecting parts of a building’s contents to large-scale fires engulfing multiple rooms.

What is a Primary Search?

According to the IFSTA Essentials of Fire Fighting Manual, a primary search is defined as:
“A quick and thorough search conducted before or during fire suppression.“

Some fire chiefs in the U.S. describe it with terms like “wild speed.” The IAFC’s Rules of Engagement for Structural Firefighting – Increasing Firefighter Survival states:
“Our mission as firefighters is to save lives. History shows that aggressive search and rescue operations have been a top priority for initial responding units. However, history (and firefighter fatalities) also reveals that firefighters are at high risk of injury or death during these operations.”

The goal of a primary search is clear: to identify both victims and the fire’s origin. This requires an immediate evaluation based on several factors, including but not limited to:

• Known vs. potential risks to life.
• Occupancy and survivability conditions.
• Building structure.
• Fire size and spread.
• Available water supply.
• Equipment and personnel readiness.

Importance of Experience

The success and safety of a primary search are influenced by the firefighter’s experience. Inexperienced firefighters might overlook danger signs and push forward despite risks. Experienced ones can recall similar situations and avoid hazards. While saving lives is the priority, the mission must not result in injury or death to the rescuers themselves.

Balancing Speed and Effectiveness

When there is confirmed danger to life, the urgency is high, and search efforts should match the situation. However, haste does not equal speed. Excessive urgency may lead to firefighters missing key signs, becoming disoriented, or even trapped. A proactive, controlled, and methodical search is more effective than one that is merely fast.

Primary Search Procedures

To perform an effective primary search, here are some basic techniques and methods:

Step 1: Gather Information

The foundation of a search strategy lies in collecting critical details from residents or witnesses. For example:
“The victim was last seen in the back bedroom on the second floor.”

Key considerations include the victim’s location in relation to the fire, the fire’s intensity and spread, and visible indicators such as smoke’s color, volume, speed, and density. Assess whether occupants can survive in the current fire conditions.

Step 2: Assess Resources and the Scene

Other factors to evaluate before beginning a search include:

• Personnel: Is there a two-in/two-out team in place? Are enough search team members available for safe operations?
• Water Supply: Has a secure water source been established? Is water already being applied to the fire?
• Building Structure: Is the building made of wood, fire-resistant materials, or non-fire-resistant materials? Is it residential, commercial, high-rise, or low-rise?
• Entry Points: Where will firefighters enter — the front/side doors, upper-floor windows, or basement? Will ladders be necessary?

Step 3: Search Posture

Firefighters typically search on hands and knees. This position ensures the head and shoulders face the direction of travel, providing better balance and control in case of falling debris or water pressure.

Advantages of this posture include:

• Lower Temperatures: Temperatures are cooler near the floor, increasing survival chances if fire conditions escalate.
• Proximity to Victims: Victims are often found on the floor or beds, rarely suspended in mid-air.
• Safety: The posture distributes body weight, reducing the risk of falling through weakened floors. Firefighters can also feel walls for doors, windows, furniture, or appliances to map out the room.

Search Techniques

Primary searches should be calculated and systematic. During a search:

• Pause every 3 meters (10 feet) or at noticeable markers like doors or windows.
• Use these pauses to reassess surroundings, monitor fire conditions, and collect information.

During pauses, firefighters should confirm their direction and recall passed markers. They should also listen for six critical cues:

1. Radio Communications: Updates about collapse risks or fire spread.
2. Team Communication: Messages like “Another room on the right” or “There’s a staircase ahead.”
3. Water Sounds: Noise from hose operations indicating fire suppression efforts.
4. Ventilation Sounds: Breaking windows or saw operations.
5. Victim Responses: Sounds like groans or cries.
6. Fire Sounds: Crackling or roaring flames.

Recommended Tools for Search

• Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC):
  Essential for monitoring heat patterns, identifying victims, and understanding room layouts. Firefighters should inspect all six surfaces of a room (four walls, ceiling, and floor).
• Irons (Axe and Halligan Tool):
  These tools allow forced entry and can help create safe spaces in apartment fires or breach walls if trapped.

Final Thoughts

Effective search techniques require regular practice. Familiarity with tools, such as SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus), is equally vital.

When the alarm rings at 4 a.m., and a fire scene involves trapped victims, firefighters must be prepared both mentally and physically to fulfill their duty. A successful primary search depends on preparation, discipline, and thoroughness.

Your training today could save lives tomorrow – including your own.

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