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Comment by Dustin J. Millis on May 9, 2009 at 12:26pm

We use combination nozzels 99 percent of the time. Be careful about the nozzels you use and how you use them. Like Jeff said, this is one area that is very controversial and deserves some serious looking into.

Comment by Ed Hartin on May 7, 2009 at 1:31pm

As many of the posts have stated, both solid stream and water fog can be effective, depending on circumstances. However, much of the belief that solid stream nozzles are the only choice for interior firefighting is not supported by science. Production of (and appropriate amount) of steam accounts for the majority of the cooling accomplished by application of water. Production of "less steam" is simply a reflection of the lower efficiency of solid streams. This does not mean that they are not effective if water can be applied to burning fuel, but they are inneffective at dealing with the hazards presented by the hot gas layer. Have a look at Choosing Your Weapon Part 1 and 2 for a more detailed look at the topic.

Comment by Ron King (Fire Chief) on May 6, 2009 at 10:16pm

On our dept. we have a nozzle that can do both full fog. And can be made smoothbore by moving the handle. One great nozzle! this way you have both at hand.

Comment by David W. Daniel on May 6, 2009 at 12:08pm

In my opinion a smooth bore nozzle gives you better stream delivery and gpm with less hand line pressures and nozzle reaction. Lower pressures, higher flow (gpm), more BTU's absorbed, fire goes out with out dropping the heated gasses to your feet and par boiling you and your mates, sounds ok to me.
We should also remember that not only "wet stuff on the red stuff" puts fires out, proper ventilation is needed. That is what really will save your life.

Comment by Jeff Cole on May 6, 2009 at 8:30am

I suggest you do some very important studying, or reading. This is controversial, no doubt. Look up any of the works of the late Andy Fredericks, of the FDNY, or get ahold of a copy of Dave McGrail's work, especially on High Rise and Standpipe ops (Denver FD). Sometims termed "The Great Debate", there is an abundance of misinformation on the use of 'fog' and adjustible nozzles.

NOTE- I am addressing my US Counterparts ONLY with this statement. I totaly understand the difference in opinions of firefighters from other Nations.

This is not to suggest that adjustible nozzles do not have their place. Of course they do.

The idea that "fog will save your life" is a statement that will no doubt raise the bp of many instructors out there. However, NOTHING works without the proper training. There is a time and place for each. Personally, I believ on a 2.5" handline, ONLY a smooth bore nozzle is appropriate for interior work. The best companies are those that have an option of both types.

Talking specifically standpipe and highrise applications, ONLY smoothbore nozzles should be used, for a variety of reasons.

But this debate gets more heat than the color of apparatus!

Comment by Mick Shelley on May 6, 2009 at 7:57am

Combination

Comment by Keggster on May 6, 2009 at 2:55am

Fog for same reasons