chapter 9 Forcible entry

Forcible entry refers to the techniques used to gain access into a compartment, structure, facility or site when:

• A. the normal means of entry is locked or blocked.
• B. building residents are not present to provide entry.
• C. a structure or compartment must be entered quickly.
• D. no windows or doors are avaliable to enter the structure.

Any entry into a structure is a form of: 

• A. forcible entry whether tools are used or not.
• B. lawful entry when performed by sworn fire department officers.
• C. rescue operations that take precedence over suppression operations.
• D. ventilation that allows an exchange of fresh air and products of combustion.

What is the BEST method of minimizing potential damage to the structure from forcible entry?

• A. Try before you pry.
• B. force doors rather than windows.
• C. use hand tools before power tools.
• D. do not force entry unless lives are in danger.

Forcible entry through security barriers such as bars, grilles and Lexan windows requires:

• A. a crew of three or more personnel.
• B. specialized training, tools, and knowledge.
• C. detailed instructions from the manufacturers.
• D. the use of hand tools rather than power tools.

Which statement regarding cutting tools used for forcible entry is correct?

• A. firefighters should not use manually powered cutting tools.
• B. no single cutting tool will safely and efficiently cut all materials.
• C. bolt cutters are not considered cutting devices but may be used as such.
• D. using a cutting tool on materials other than it was designed for will slow down operations but it otherwise not harmful to the tool or operator.

What is considered to be pushing/pulling tool when used for forcible entry?

• A. winch.
• B. kelly tool.
• C. plaster hook.
• D. sledge hammer.

Pushing and pulling tools have limited use in forcible entry, but in certain instances, such as ______, they are the tools of choice.

• A. prying doors.
• B. breaking locks.
• C. removing door jams.
• D. opening walls or ceilings.

With the exception of the roofman's hook, pike poles and other hooks should not be used for prying because:

• The handles are made of wood or fiberglass.
• B. the tools are too short for adequate leverage.
• C. the tools will bend when applying too much force.
• D. hooks do not create enough of a fulcrum to be effective.

Which striking tool is used for forcible entry?

• A. maul.
• B. pry bar.
• C. pike pole.
• D. hydraulic door opener.

What is a safety consideration when using striking tools in forcible entry operations?

• A. a battering ram should never be used to make openings in walls.
• B. firefighters should not use a striking tool in combustion with another tool.
• C. poorly maintained striking surfaces may cause metal chips or splinters to fly into the air.
• D. using striking tools such as a maul or flat-head ax requires the user to have a charged hoseline in place.