Where is the rehabilitation/staging center typically located in a high-rise fire?

In a high-rise fire, the rehabilitation or staging center is typically located two or three floors below the fire. This placement is strategic for several reasons.

First, it ensures the safety of personnel who may be exposed to fire conditions or smoke. By positioning the center below the fire, firefighters and support staff can recover from the physical and mental demands of combating the fire without immediate exposure to hazardous conditions.

Second, this location allows for easier access to both the fire floor and the evacuation routes. Firefighters can quickly return to the front lines as needed, while also maintaining a safe distance from the intense heat and smoke typically encountered on the fire floor.

Additionally, being below the fire gives operational command the ability to control the situation more effectively, managing resources and ensuring that any needed support or medical attention can be provided without complicating the efforts of those engaged in firefighting. This positioning ultimately enhances operational efficiency and safety during complex high-rise incidents.