During high-rise operations, how many floors above the fire floor should the attack stairwell be searched?

During high-rise operations, it is essential to search multiple floors above the fire floor to ensure that any potential victims who may have been displaced by smoke or flames are located and rescued. The standard practice is to search up to five floors above the fire floor. This is based on the understanding that smoke and heat will rise, potentially affecting occupants in higher levels of the building.

Searching five floors above allows fire crews to address the possibility of individuals on those upper levels who may not have evacuated or who may be in danger due to the effects of smoke movement. This practice enhances safety and effectiveness in rescue efforts during high-rise firefighting operations.

While the other options suggest fewer or greater numbers of floors, the established guideline of five floors is particularly effective in providing a balance between thoroughness in rescue operations and the logistical challenges faced in high-rise scenarios. This approach is in accordance with the protocols that prioritize life safety in complex fire environments.