Once again, Alex s photo gives us an opportunity to learn something. It also gave me a new perspective since I was not in my normal role of the line officer. As a firefighter you should have a basic knowledge of the area you work in. As you gain experience, you get to know the streets and avenues and eventually, the buildings. Or at least the type of buildings the fire is located.
Fire is in a row of similar type buildings.
A time consuming and difficult means at times. The possibility of a draft curtain under the roof level skylight. Open and unenclosed stair to the upper floors. However, Brownstones are very unique. They may require a multiple alarm for manpower, but rarely spread beyond the structure itself.