Application of Computer in Fire Service Essay Example

located several feet apart from each other, it can considerably prolong the duration of a computer operation.

These speeds may further increase as new materials such as gallium arsenide or Josephs Junctions replace silicon in the upcoming generation of computer chips.

Computer Principles:

To comprehend the operations of a computer, it is crucial to grasp fundamental operating principles. Computers convert all types of information into electrical signals organized as 'bits', 'bytes', and 'words'. A 'bit' is short for 'Binary digit' and functions in computer operations, capable of holding one or zero to represent two possible pieces of information.

The information is stored as an electric charge on a piece of semiconductor material. The bit has a value of 1 if the charge is positive and 0 if it is negative. A bit can be seen as an electronic switch that is either on or off, representing 1 or 0 respectively. Computers manipulate numbers using the binary system. In a sequence of four bits, each bit represents a value of N based on its position. The first or rightmost bit signifies a value of 1 when 'on' and 0 when 'off'.

The following section shows the relationship between numbers and their corresponding bits. The value 2 corresponds to 'on' while O corresponds to 'off'. Similarly, the third bit is associated with the value 4 and the leftmost of four bits equals 23 or 8. By adding these values, a computer can represent numbers from zero (0000) to fifteen (1111) using only four bits. For example, the number four is represented as 0100 and nine is represented as 1001. When these numbers are added together, they

result in 1101 or thirteen. All computations in a computer follow this method by combining values of electronic switches that are either on or off.

BINARY 0100 1001 1101 DECIMAL 4 13 Byte : When representing decimal digits with a computer, four bits are sufficient, but more are often used. Typically, a sequence of eight bits is utilized and referred to as a 'byte'. Therefore, each character in a computer's memory is comprised of eight bits or one byte. The capacity of a computer's storage is measured in bytes. As most computers can store thousands of bytes, the common term for expressing memory size is the 'Kilobyte,' denoted by the symbol K. A kilobyte is defined as 2¹⁰ = 1024 bytes. For instance, an ASK memory can hold 64 x 1024 = 65,536 characters or bytes (524,288 electronic switches).

A computer "word" refers to the number of bits that a computer can process simultaneously. Initially, early microcomputers utilized eight bits or one byte at a time. However, with advancements, later models adopted a 16-bit word, enabling them to handle 16 bits or two bytes simultaneously. Minicomputers, on the other hand, employ 32 or 64-bit words. The size of the word significantly influences a computer's operational speed, indicating that microcomputers with bit words or larger are likely to become more widespread.

General Purpose Applications Software

The widespread availability of general purpose software is one of the main factors contributing to the microcomputer revolution.

These software packages have numerous applications within their specific functional areas. In comparison to programs found on mainframes or minicomputers, they are simple to understand, hence they are commonly known as "user

friendly". The main categories of general purpose applications include word processing, electronic spreadsheets, data base management, telecommunications, and graphics. Word processing packages are capable of generating, modifying, and printing various types of documents such as correspondence, reports, form letters, mailing labels, invoices, and even large handbooks.

The use of word processors allows for efficient processing of paperwork, resulting in time and cost savings for administrative tasks. This is achieved by electronically storing and editing documents, rather than relying on paper copies. Word processing is especially beneficial for updating fire safety inspection surveys, as it makes it easy to add or remove standard recommendations with just a few keystrokes. Similarly, proposals, specifications, and procedures can be conveniently updated using word processing. Notably, the National Fire Protection Association has greatly benefited from the use of word processing in their standards making procedures.

Electronic Spreadsheets

The electronic spreadsheet, which mimics traditional paper-based spreadsheets used by accountants, has played a crucial role in the widespread adoption of microcomputers in small businesses. These computer programs consist of rows and columns that form cells at their intersections. Each cell can hold text, numbers, or formulas. A significant benefit of these spreadsheets is their capability to instantly recalculate all cell values when any value is modified. This functionality greatly simplifies budget adjustments as it enables easy addition, deletion, or changes to budget items with automatic recalculation of all totals and subtotals.

By utilizing an electronic spreadsheet, the process of experimenting with reallocations becomes swift and effortless. Spreadsheet analysis is frequently employed in project management for cost estimation. Various engineering applications, such as hydraulic calculations and code requirements, have been tailored

to accommodate spreadsheet programs. The range of possible applications is boundless and solely dependent on the user's creativity.

Date Base Management

Database management programs provide a way to store, retrieve, and rearrange large quantities of similar data.

A "data base" refers to a compilation of information that has been gathered, arranged, and presented to fulfill a particular objective. Data base management software aids in establishing systematic and manageable systems for storing and retrieving records. This allows for immediate access to files and facilitates easy updates. Furthermore, data base management transforms records of inspections, inventory, personnel, customers, training, maintenance, etc. into valuable tools for management rather than mere requirements. Computer data base management enables the ability to organize data in any desired order, select specific categories, and generate reports that include totals, subtotals, and various statistical measurements.

Telecommunications

Telecommunications refers to the transmission of data between computers using telephone lines, satellites, or other devices. It necessitates specific hardware and software. The hardware, known as a "modem," converts a computer's digital signal into analog signals for transmission. The modulated signal can be received by another modem, which demodulates it for the receiving computer.

Computers that communicate with each other can be in close proximity or situated on opposite ends of the globe. The modem is managed by specialized software that enables telecommunications for various purposes. Computer graphics refer to visual presentations of data, comprised of elements like line segments. These graphics are representations of digital information and are composed of numerous components. The two main applications of computer graphics are business graphics and computer aided design. These visuals can be displayed on video screens,

paper transparencies, or slides.

Using graphics can significantly improve efficiency and effectiveness, as images communicate information more quickly and dramatically than textual content. In the past, generating business graphics was a costly and time-consuming process. However, with the emergence of microcomputers, it is now feasible to generate office graphics swiftly, effortlessly, and at reduced expenses. Computer aided Design (CAD) encompasses any system that employs computer graphics rather than conventional design instruments such as pens. CAD is employed to generate plans, intricate layouts, drawings, and visualizations.

In the field of structure and mechanical system design, CAD can incorporate interfaces with engineering routines to perform calculations for loads, stress, and sizing. Visualization can involve static views or dynamic simulations in two or three dimensions. There are currently restricted CAD programs accessible for microcomputers. As memory capability and processing speed improve, CAD will become a more commonly used application. CAD holds great potential for creating fire risk analysis diagrams and designing fire protection systems. (Note: In fire service language, CAD may also stand for Computer Aided Dispatch.)

Special Purpose Fire Protection Software

With the increasing use of microcomputers, specific fire protection applications are on the rise. These applications can be updates of existing programs from mainframe and minicomputer versions or new applications made possible by the availability of microcomputers. Specialized fire protection software can be classified into three categories: research, management, and engineering. (a) Research: Computers have always played a crucial role in fire research, whether on mainframes or minicomputers.

Nowadays, researchers have easier access to considerable computing power, allowing them to conduct research on any microcomputer. This increased computational capability is particularly valuable in fields like

human behavior in fires, where the ability to generate complex statistical analyses is crucial. Fire dynamics and deterministic fire modeling are examples of research areas that heavily rely on computer technology, with the Harvard Fire Code being a notable illustration (Miter 1985).

An additional fire model known as ASSET (Available Safe Egress Time), initially a mainframe computer research project, is utilized as another similar type of fire model (Cooper AAA). ASSET has now been made accessible for microcomputers and is evolving into an engineering design tool (Walton AAA). Additionally, a computer program has been developed to evaluate fire fighting turnout coats and other forms of protective clothing (Veggie and Smelled 1982). This program takes into account factors such as environmental climate, underclothing, hysterical workload, and thermal workload.

The program demonstrates the power of a computer by considering over 700 variable combinations in the field of management. Currently, microcomputers are mostly using adapted business software for fire protection management. However, it is expected that the computational power will be used to improve strategic planning for fire protection. For instance, in healthcare, a computer program has been developed that combines fire protection with economic analysis to aid in management decision making (NAP 101 ; Chapman 1985).

A more sectional generalized approach to fire safety decision support is also being developed (Watts 1985). Computers have not yet had a significant impact on code enforcement, but their potential is very promising (Klein). Artificial intelligence (AI) is a highly active field in computer science, encompassing natural languages, robotics, and expert systems. Fire protection is an expert system within this domain. Utilizing a microcomputer to assist in this field can greatly

reduce the routine effort required in implementing firedrake codes and standards.

Fire Service Applications .

The impact of computers on fire protection in the fire service has been remarkable. It is often likened to inventions such as the internal combustion engine, centrifugal pump, and radio because it has contributed to enhancing fire department operations. According to a study conducted by the Consortium of Western Fire Agencies on Integrated Information Systems (CASUAL 19882), large fire departments already make extensive use of computers. In the future, even the smallest volunteer fire departments will be able to incorporate computer systems thanks to the affordable availability of microcomputers.

In addition to typical management functions such as payroll, inventory, and budget preparation, data base management systems have been developed to provide tactical information on high-risk buildings (Osaka 1983), track the number and types of fires that occur, evaluate Emergency Medical Service (MS) advanced life support systems (Hicks 1982), and myriad other fire service functions. One of the more pronounced applications in fire departments is computer-aided dispatching fire prevention activities and training. Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) was one of the early applications of computers to fire apartment operations. CAD systems use the speed and storage capabilities of computers to monitor fire apparatus location and dispatch the closest units to the scene of an emergency. Experience with CAD has generally been very good, resulting in reduced dispatcher workload, savings in personnel costs, and a fast response to major fires and simultaneous accidents. CAD can be implemented successfully on microcomputers, not just large mainframe computers or minicomputers. It facilitates managing large amounts of data and scheduling.

By combining these capabilities, a fire

department can significantly improve its fire prevention efforts. The computer is able to monitor and record deficiencies and violations, and arrange for further inspections of properties. When connected to a CAD system, the dispatcher can receive notifications about unaddressed issues that may impact decisions made by the fire ground officer during an emergency. In a different context, there are educational computer games that focus on fire safety.

Training

Fire Service Training utilizes microcomputers to provide unique applications such as Computer Assisted Instruction (CIA), also known as Computer Band Training (CAB), which offers significant advantages to fire service personnel. These advantages include allowing instructors to focus on field exercises, enabling students to progress at their own pace, and providing reinforcement. Various applications that have been implemented include Emergency Medical Technician (MET) case studies on victim care, familiarization with the building code, fire hydraulics drills, and fire ground simulation.

Interactive training programs can utilize computers alone, or they can be connected to video tape players or laser disk players. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEM.) is actively backing the advancement of microcomputer technology in the fire service. This support is manifested through courses offered at the National Fire Academy (Weaver 1983) and studies funded by the United States Fire Administration. These studies involve an eight-fire-department program to assess the effectiveness of computer-generated management information, specifically focused on hazardous materials identification simulation and development.

Microprocessors are being utilized more and more by fire departments in their equipment for a range of purposes including data communications, computer graphic displays, and pumping information. These microprocessors can also be linked to satellites for dispatching and locating vehicles. Within the field

of engineering, microcomputers are widely employed in creating system design and evaluation software for automatic sprinkler systems used in fire protection.

There are over 25 commercial programs and numerous privately developed programs available for both designing and evaluating sprinkler systems. These programs come in different forms and capabilities, catering to different hardware configurations. Some even include their own hardware system. There are basic programs written in interpretive BASIC, while more advanced programs are written in standard FORTRAN and newer microcomputer languages. Some programs can also interface with plotters to create working drawings of sprinkler installations.

Some computer programs can be used for different purposes. Some are used to check plans, while others can optimize pipe sizes for designing a cost-effective system. These programs are available for microcomputers. Hallo systems, for instance, depend on fluid dynamics that differ according to the manufacturer's equipment. Design programs for these systems are usually proprietary. In terms of static or passive protection, there are computer programs that evaluate the fire endurance of both protected and unprotected steel and reinforced concrete structural assemblies.

Similar to special hazard extinguishing systems, microcomputers do not have widespread availability.

Evacuee

The text explains that there is a computer program designed to plan and assess evacuation of large buildings. Initially created for mainframe computers, it has now been modified for microcomputers. Additionally, there is ongoing development and implementation of new microcomputer software to enhance fire safety in buildings, structures, transportation facilities, mines, forests, and outer space.