Where the Collapse Started - S4-E22
Visible crew/equipment: After the paramedic locates the injured firefighter, the shot cuts to the outside and the camera operator's shoulder can be seen in the lower left of the shot.
Visible crew/equipment: A man trying to escape rams the front end of his smaller vehicle into the right front end of the ambulance, causing significant damage. But, there is no damage to the front end of the vehicle. It's visible in the scene that the smaller vehicle is on a ramp, so it's high enough to be able to crash into the right front fender and grill of the ambulance. (00:52:07)
Answer: Internet sources give many reasons why firefighters do this, but in regards to your question, it's probably because opening walls and ceilings creates better ventilation which allows heat and smoke to escape, giving firefighters better visibility and lowering the temperature.
raywest ★