Salvage and Overhaul (Firefighting)

Salvage and overhaul are two essential concepts in the firefighting industry. These tactics are employed by firefighters during and after a fire to minimize damage to a building and its contents. The objective of salvage and overhaul is to prevent further spread of fire, reduce the risk of re-ignition, and maintain the structural integrity of the building.

Salvage is the process of protecting or removing valuable and important items from a burning building. During a fire, water damage from firefighting equipment can be just as destructive as the fire itself. Salvage operations involve the use of tarps and other types of waterproof barriers to protect objects from being damaged by water and smoke.

The main goal of salvage operations is to protect items from water damage. Once a fire is under control, firefighters will create a salvage cover, using a tarp or large piece of fabric weighted down around the corners with sandbags or other heavy objects. This cover will be placed over the items to be protected, such as computers, furniture, or other valuable assets. The cover seals off items from further damage due to water regardless if it is falling straight down or sprayed at an angle.

Overhaul, on the other hand, is the procedure of looking for hot spots and hidden fires after a fire has been controlled. Overhaul operations involve the careful examination of the area to ensure that there are no remaining fires. This process can include ripping down walls, removing ceilings, and checking the structural components of the building to ensure that everything is secure.

When conducting overhaul operations, firefighters pay close attention to the possibility of rekindling. firefighters may spray water on potential hot spots to cool down the area and reduce the risk of re-ignition. Additionally, ventilation is important during overhaul operations to release any trapped heat or smoke that could cause a secondary fire.

In conclusion, salvage and overhaul are two crucial components of firefighting operations that aim to minimize damage to a building and its contents during and after a fire. Salvage involves protecting valuable assets from water damage, while overhaul involves ensuring that there are no smoldering remains or hidden fires. Together, these two procedures are essential to mitigate the risks caused by a fire and to restore normalcy for those impacted by it.