(In Response to "My Other Hat," Oct. 30, 2003, Command Post)

There are a couple of problems with using foam at high-rise fires. CAFs systems are controlled at the pump panel, but the water supply for the majority of high rise firefighting is obtained at the standpipe. There is currently no good way to pump foam through a standpipe system. Another problem is the lack of heat absorption when using CAFS. Fires in type I (fire resistive buildings) retain high heat levels unless a sufficient amount of water is used to cool them.

I think the solution to the high-rise problem you cited will be found somewhere other than the use of foam.

Deputy Chief Ted Nee
Albuqerque Fire
Albuqerque, N.M.