A:  Fires produce temperatures will over 1200° F, along with smoke and hot gases.  At times, it is necessary to eliminate heat, smoke, and hot gases before firefighters can enter to extinguish the fire.  Ventilation must be done quickly to help reduce fire spread.

Q:  Why are holes torn into walls and ceilings?

A:  Often, walls and ceilings must be forcibly opened to find "hidden" fires.  This allows complete fire extinguishment.  After the fire is out, damage my appear unnecessary.  However, without the use of these firefighting techniques, the building could suffer total destruction by fire.

Q:  Why are personal belongings removed from the house and placed in the yard?

A:  Personal belongings are removed for their protection during overhaul operations.  It allows the firefighter to be more thorough in extinguishing smoldering articles and it also allows the family members to look for articles of value and take possession of them.  This prevents family members from entering the structure that could be very unstable and dangerous.

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