When opening a wall during firefighting operations, where is the best place to start?

Starting to open a wall at waist height is the best approach during firefighting operations for several reasons. First, this height provides a good balance between visibility and access to potential hidden fire and structural integrity issues. At waist height, firefighters can more easily inspect and assess the condition of the wall cavity without the risk of debris falling directly onto them, which can occur when working overhead.

Additionally, many structural features, such as electrical wiring or plumbing, may be located at or just above waist height, making it a strategic decision to start there. This allows for a thorough examination of the interior of the wall, potentially revealing the presence of fire while minimizing the risk of ignition from encountering combustible materials located overhead. Accessing walls at this level also helps maintain a safer working position, ensuring that firefighters can manage their tools effectively and respond quickly to changing conditions within the wall structure.