Where should primary search start in a high-rise building?

Starting the primary search on the floor above the fire floor is crucial in high-rise firefighting operations. This strategy maximizes the chances of finding and rescuing occupants who may be trapped, as smoke and heat from the fire tend to ascend.

When a fire occurs, the floor where the fire is located will become increasingly dangerous as smoke and heat rise, making it difficult for trapped individuals to escape. Initiating the search on the floor above the fire allows firefighters to assess the situation from a safer vantage point, potentially locating people who may be sheltering there because they assume it is safer or because they were unable to escape in time.

Conducting the primary search in this manner not only increases the likelihood of successful rescues but also enables firefighters to monitor the spreading conditions of the fire, allowing for better overall decision-making regarding tactics and resource allocation. This approach is consistent with firefighting best practices, which prioritize the safety of both victims and firefighters.