Photos: Newport Beach Firefighter Training

Firefighters have spent the past week brushing up on ventilation training, one of the most dangerous tasks performed on the fire ground. 

The training was conducted at a building on West Coast Highway. It is owned by Ridgeway Development and was offered to firefighters for training before its demolition, according to Jennifer Schulz of the Newport Beach Fire Department.

Ventilation training is essential because during a structure fire, ventilation is a key factor in safely fighting a fire. Proper vertical ventilation through the roof to a burning structure allows superheated air—up to 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit—and gases to escape, creating a better atmosphere. 

"A better atmosphere inside the structure will increase chances for victim survivability and provide firefighters inside the building with better visibility," Schulz explained.

If vertical ventilation is done improperly, it can cause serious injuries and cause the fire to get worse.