Animation of the Fire Spyder™

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Two major challenges make high-rise operations extremely difficult: the complex logistical aspect and the overwhelming exposure.

Elevators, the primary means of moving people to upper floors in a high-rise, can quickly become dangerous and even deadly.

"…we cannot solely depend on elevators for internal logistical support…"

"...they have to be used with great discretion...."
 

Stairs, while an alternative, pose their own difficulties. 

As firefighters attempt to ascend, numerous occupants are evacuating downward, creating congestion and slowing progress. The stairwell becomes a frustrating bottleneck, particularly as firefighters carry heavy loads, including SCBA, spare air cylinders, hose packs, and other bulky equipment—often adding 50 to 100 pounds of extra weight.

Reflex times become a critical factor, as even a highly skilled engine company may take 10, 15, 20, or even over 30 minutes to stretch an attack line and supply water to a serious high-rise fire.

Additionally, the standpipe system—essential for firefighting operations—can fail for various reasons, turning into a logistical nightmare that demands significant manpower to resolve.

Every fire presents a six-sided, multidimensional challenge. The six by-products of fire—smoke, heat, and flame among them—spread in all directions, posing significant dangers. However, the natural upward movement of fire makes high-rise buildings particularly vulnerable to rapid fire growth and vertical extension, further complicating firefighting efforts.

Therefore:

" Fire departments, and specifically individual fire companies, should constantly be proactively working to develop new methods to quickly and efficiently transport tools and equipment to the upper floors of a high rise building"

from FIREFIGHTING OPERATIONS in HIGH RISE AND STANDPIPE EQUIPPED BUILDINGS ( David M. Mc Grail, chapter 5, page 73 to 78).