If the fire floor hallway is untenable, which type of stretch should be utilized?

In a situation where the fire floor hallway is untenable, using a stairwell stretch is the most appropriate choice. A stairwell stretch allows firefighters to transport hoses and equipment safely and effectively without exposing themselves to the hazardous conditions present in the untenable hallway. The stairwell can act as a protected path that leads to the fire floor while maintaining a reduced risk of smoke and heat exposure.

Employing a stairwell stretch ensures that hoselines can be deployed in a manner that maximizes operational safety while still enabling access to the fire area. The design of the stairwell allows for a more controlled approach to fighting the fire, and it can facilitate both horizontal and vertical movement, depending on the fire's location relative to the other floors.

Other methods, such as the direct stretch, flat stretch, or backstretch, may not provide the same level of protection or efficiency when navigating through hazardous environments. They are typically used in different situations where access to the fire is less compromised by dangerous conditions.