High-Rise Fire Fighting

High-rise emergencies present unique challenges to first responders.  The sheer size and complexity of a multi-story structure make every aspect of an incident more difficult.  Accessing upper floors with personnel and equipment consumes valuable time and energy.  The migration of smoke, heat and gases can block access/egress routes.  Search
and rescue operations require more personnel and more time.

If the movement of smoke, heat and gases within a high-rise structure can be controlled, the incident becomes easier to manage.

Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) is the most effective tool for controlling a hostile environment inside a high-rise building.  By utilizing the air pressure generating by a PPV blower, first responders can control the movement of smoke during fire attack and overhaul operations.

• PPV can instantly pressurize stairwells to minimize the migration of smoke and gasses into evacuation areas. 
• PPV can quickly clear stairwells of smoke and heat, providing clear access to upper floors and a clear path to evacuate.
• PPV can effectively clear upper floors from a safe ground level position.
• PPV can effectively clear below-ground floors and parking garages from a safe above-ground position.

Tempest Technology leads the development of tools for high-rise ventilation:

Mobile Ventilation Unit (MVU™):  A Tempest MVU is the ultimate ventilation tool for large structures.

27” Belt-Drive Blower:  An original, the Tempest 27" Belt-Drive is the most powerful PPV blower in    the world.

Support of Research:  Tempest has been an active supporter of the research conducted by the  National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Request a free copy of the High-Rise PPV Training DVD produced by NIST: click here