The following procedures for the use of the fire fighting broom were developed and recommended by Chief Harold Goodney, State Fire Instructor for Herkimer County, New York.
Grass fires in short grass and/or leaves.
- May be attacked directly with fire brooms only.
- Approach the flanks of the fire area, on both sides if possible, and while working towards the head or front of the fire, sweep the burning embers back into the burned area.
Grass fires in tall grass and weeds, low brush, etc.
- It is usually best to "knock down" the flames with water streams from back-pack pumps ahead of the attack with the brooms as in A-2 above.
- If the terrain allows fire apparatus to approach close enough to utilize hose lines for the initial attack, the broom can still be used to follow up to check for any remaining embers.
- Beating at the flames may cause flying embers to spread the fire.
Forest Fires
- Surface fires under tall timber.
- The fire broom may be used as in grass and leaf fires.
- Fires involving undergrowth or tall timbers.
- Use of the fire broom limited to patrolling fire breaks, etc.
For extended broom life soak fibres in water prior to use.
Part #421016120
