fire department building pre plan template

3 min read 01-02-2025

fire department building pre plan template

Creating a comprehensive pre-plan for buildings is crucial for fire departments. A well-executed pre-plan significantly improves response times, enhances firefighter safety, and minimizes property damage during emergencies. This guide provides a detailed template and explains the importance of each section. Understanding and utilizing this template will help your department prepare for any incident effectively.

Section 1: Building Information

This section provides essential details about the building itself, forming the foundation of your pre-plan.

Building Name & Address: Include the full legal name and complete street address, including any unit numbers or specific location details within a larger complex.
Occupancy Type: Clearly define the building's primary use (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial, educational, healthcare). This dictates the potential hazards and response strategies.
Construction Type: Specify the building's construction materials (e.g., wood frame, brick, concrete, steel). This impacts fire spread and structural stability. Include details like fire-resistant ratings if available.
Building Size & Dimensions: Note the building's overall size (square footage), number of stories, and dimensions (length, width, height). Include floor plan specifics if possible.
Year Built: Knowing the age of the building can offer clues about its construction methods and potential vulnerabilities.
Ownership & Contact Information: Record the owner's name, contact details, and the name and contact information of the building manager or responsible party.

Section 2: Access & Site Information

This section focuses on critical access points for emergency responders.

Access Points: Detail all accessible points for fire apparatus, including road names, potential obstructions (e.g., parked cars, narrow streets), and distances from the street to the building. Indicate the best access route and any alternate routes.
Hydrant Locations: Document the location and type of fire hydrants, including their flow rates and distances from the building. Note any hydrant issues or limitations.
Water Supply: Describe the water supply's capacity and any potential limitations. This includes information on water tanks, sprinkler systems, and other water sources.
Parking: Indicate designated parking areas for fire apparatus and emergency personnel.
Site Features: Note any unique site features that may impact response, such as underground utilities, overhead power lines, steep inclines, or hazardous materials storage.

Section 3: Building Layout & Interior Features

This section provides a detailed overview of the building's internal structure.

Floor Plans: Include detailed floor plans showing room layouts, hallways, stairwells, elevators, and other critical features. This is vital for navigation during an emergency.
Occupant Load: Determine the maximum number of people the building can safely accommodate.
Hazardous Materials: Identify any hazardous materials stored or used within the building. This is especially crucial for industrial or commercial occupancies.
Special Features: Document any unique features such as sprinkler systems, fire alarms, standpipes, fire suppression systems, or emergency exits. Note their location and operational status.
Utilities: Identify the location of main shut-off valves for gas, electricity, and water.

Section 4: Emergency Procedures & Contact Information

This section provides essential information for coordinated responses.

Emergency Contacts: List key personnel who should be contacted during an emergency, including building management, security, and relevant authorities.
Building's Emergency Plan: Include a copy of the building's existing emergency plan if one exists.
Evacuation Procedures: Document the building's established evacuation procedures, including assembly points and designated routes.
Key Holders: Identify the location of building keys and the individuals who have access to them.

Section 5: Photos & Diagrams

Visual aids significantly enhance the pre-plan's effectiveness.

Exterior Photos: Include photos of the building's exterior, highlighting access points, hydrants, and any unique features.
Interior Photos: Take photos of critical interior areas, such as stairwells, hallways, and hazardous material storage locations.
Site Diagrams: Create diagrams showing the building's location, access routes, and the surrounding environment.

Section 6: Regular Updates & Review

Pre-plans are not static documents. Regular reviews and updates are essential to maintain accuracy and relevance.

Review Schedule: Establish a regular schedule for reviewing and updating the pre-plan, at least annually or whenever significant changes occur to the building or its occupancy.
Revision History: Maintain a record of all revisions and updates made to the pre-plan.

By meticulously completing this template, fire departments can create effective building pre-plans, significantly enhancing their preparedness and response capabilities. Remember, accurate and up-to-date information is critical for ensuring the safety of firefighters and protecting lives and property.