A factory is reported on fire, and the Emergency Communications Center is getting numerous calls. The fire is in an older factory type of building. This is what happened in Bridgeport, Connecticut, in an old mill-type factory building. This type of building can be a vacant or, in a lot of areas, can be used as office space, residential, or smaller businesses sharing a building. This is where local knowledge and building inspections and visits can pay big dividends. Are there people living in the building? In New York City, these buildings are called loft-type buildings. A loft building has an open flooi plan much like a factory with high ceilings and large, uncompartmented areas tenants use for living space. Loft buildings that appear to be commercial would be marked with a sign that reads "A.I.R.," meaning artist in residence. If the building has been converted or has people living in it, the local company/unit will have the best chance of knowing that. Of course, listen to what the civilians say, because the neighbors will also have an intimate knowledge of what is happening in that building.
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