The focus is on some of the most common problems encountered in these most difficult of fires. Lack of access and ventilation, potentially high life hazards, and limited hose stream application points are a few of the difficulties. Recognizing these problems early and having procedures in place in advance are the keys to dealing with these fires. Among topics covered are the definition of basement vs. cellar, commercial vs. residential belowgrade fires, and what to expect from each type; the recent line-of-duty deaths involving basements and cellars and the reasons these fires are so deadly; common and not-so-common difficulties; fire attack options; water application methods; and gaining access and making egress.
