Final answer:
The command post at a high rise fire should be located at a safe minimum distance, which varies depending on the situation and department protocols but is essential to keep emergency responders out of danger and maintain control over the operations.
Step-by-step explanation:
When dealing with a high rise fire, the location of the command post is crucial for effective management of the situation. It should be positioned at a safe minimum distance away from the building, taking into account the potential for debris falling from the fire-affected floors, as well as ensuring that emergency operations are not hindered.
The New York City Fire Department (NYFD) and other such entities follow protocols that dictate this distance to ensure the safety of the fire personnel and other individuals involved in the emergency response.
Moreover, the tragic incident with the NYFD where ladders reached only the 6th floor showcases the importance of proper positioning and emergency preparedness. Rescue operations can be severely affected if the command post or other essential firefighting apparatus are placed too close to the fire and become at risk themselves. Firefighters need to have a clear area to work in, which is why establishing a command post at a safe distance is of paramount importance.
While specific distances can vary based on department protocols and the situation at hand, firefighters are trained to evaluate these circumstances rapidly to establish a command post at a sufficient distance to be out of the immediate danger zone but still maintain control over the emergency operations.