Forcible Entry and Ventilation
Forcible entry fundamentals
Forcible entry is a decision, not a reflex: try before you force, force the least, and damage as little as possible while still achieving access. Know the three broad methods - conventional (prying the door or window), through-the-lock (removing the lock cylinder), and hydraulic (forcing tools such as the rabbit tool). For an inward-swinging door, work the lock side; for an outward-swinging door, hinge removal is often faster. Study tool anatomy: the Halligan's adze, fork, and pick; the flat-head axe; the set of irons when combined; the shove knife for lightweight latches; the K-tool and lock puller for cylinders.
Ventilation principles
Ventilation is the controlled release of heat, smoke, and toxic gases. Methods include horizontal, vertical, hydraulic, and mechanical (positive pressure and negative pressure). Its purposes are life safety, fire attack, and property conservation - in that order. The cardinal rule is coordination: vertical ventilation happens with a charged attack line in position and the roof sector working with the interior crews. Positive pressure requires a tight intake path, a clear exhaust opening, and a charged line at the door before the fan starts.
Traps
Questions bait candidates into venting "to see" before a line is ready, which can worsen conditions or pull fire into uninvolved spaces. Others confuse positive and negative pressure, or assume a hydraulic tool replaces conventional skills. Door control - closing the door behind the attack line - is frequently the correct answer about flow path.
Rule of thumb
Vent for life, vent for fire, and always vent with a line in place.