Traditionally, we think of water as the universal agent for fighting fires. However, there are some situations were water is ineffective and can even worsen the fire. This is where foam comes in. Firefighting foam is a concentrate that smothers the fire, coating it and removing the oxygen. Foam is used when flammable liquids, such as gasoline or oil, spill or catch fire. It can also be used to protect buildings or other areas from fire by making the material temporarily impossible to ignite.

Like any other tool firefighters use, it is important for firefighters to drill with foam on a regular basis to practice techniques and stay up-to-date with technologies. Portland Fire & Rescue's (PF&R) Station 24, located in Swan Island, is home to Foam Unit 24 (FU-24) which is a specially outfitted apparatus designed to carry large amounts of foam to fire scenes. Captain Jamie and his crew from Station 24 partnered with Station 2 to perform drills using new foam equipment.

The crew from Station 24 was not only practicing foam application at PF&R’s training center, they were busy taking pictures and documenting the steps. PF&R just received some new equipment, and it is important that everyone in the city to be trained and acquainted with it.

“We are in the process of developing a training book,” Captain Jamie explains. “The goal is that any station around the city can pick up the book and know exactly how to apply foam.”

These drills are very important to the preparedness of firefighters and keep the entire department up to date on equipment and resources.

  Portland Fire & Rescue We Respond: Always Ready, Always There

  July 28, 2010