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Fire chief explains tactical burn used at Broadway structure fire
Summary
Dayton fire leadership said crews first attempted an interior attack, then pulled back for life-safety reasons and used a tactical burn to create access points for water streams; commissioners asked for clearer public explanation after circulating footage.
When commissioners asked why water had not been used immediately at a North Broadway structure fire, Chief French explained the response sequence and safety considerations. He said firefighters "attempted an interior attack" to look for victims, but that crews pulled back when the building showed significant structural deterioration. "When life safety is not a hazard at that point, we actually, allow the fire to burn to create access points, so we can get those water points," the chief said, describing the "tactical burn" approach.
Commissioners said residents raised questions after seeing footage of the incident. The chief acknowledged the awkward public perception of that moment and said the department prioritizes life safety and then shifts tactics to create safer water-access points. The commission asked staff to ensure clear public communication about fire tactics in future incidents so residents understand operational choices and life-safety priorities.
