In major cities, this problem is less prevalent then in small departments that might have minimal manpower and less fire duty and don't use their aerial as much as others.
This is not an aerial ladder program by any means but just some random thoughts for a small training on aerial use.
Make sure all drivers and operators are specially trained and re-trained as necessary on a regular basis.
Do not overload or use beyond design strength or performance ratings.
Inspect after each use completely and document and report deficiencies.
Make sure that ladder and all ground ladders are tested annually.
Use extreme caution on any uneven surfaces and steep hills.
Ladder will have less load carrying at lower angles.
Ladder will have less load carrying at greater extension.
Use caution with loose gear around the turntable area.
Operators should be attentive to inclinometer during use.
Always be aware of overhead obstructions, wires, overhangs, etc.
Keep the tip visible and lit well during night operations.
Maintain hydraulic system constantly. Take precautions in extreme cold weather.
Operate within the manufacturer's instructions and or specifications.
In general get the rig out and have operators perform certain designated tasks, such as placement drills, speed of set up (safely!), and smoothness in operation of controls.
Do not trust that an operator with only limited operating experience will be able to use this vital piece of equipment when needed.
Train with nightime operations as well!
Pete Lamb
Copyright 2013
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Sunday, February 3, 2013
60 Second Safety - Effective Ventilation
This week 60 second safety talks about how to determine if your ventilation is effective.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN.
Thanks, and stay safe!
Pete Lamb
Copyright 2013
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN.
Thanks, and stay safe!
Pete Lamb
Copyright 2013
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Personnel Accountability
Just a small reminder that the rules of accountability state that you should be within VOICE, VISUAL, or TOUCH with your partner and crew.
The next time you have an incident or a drill, try and do that and see how
really difficult it is. Practice this when you are on the simple "smells and bells" calls.
At your next call or training drill have someone see how many times this rules gets violated
This is a real chore and can be a pain in the neck.
As conditions change and the area becomes filled with smoke, the visual goes away.
Move closer!
The voice becomes muffled by a mask and you now have to be much closer than you were.
Move closer!
Smoke banked to the floor and high heat....you must be in touch contact in case something goes wrong, you can assist your crew members.
At your next five incidents try to maintain this level of accountability.
E-Mail back and tell us how difficult that really is.
It's hard work to stay safe....but really give it a shot, you and your family are worth it!
Pete Lamb
Copyright 2013
Tactical Fire Problem - Furniture Store
This week the tactical problem involves an extremely significant fire problem. This is an older building, taxpayer style, with a furniture store on floor 1. Lets take a look.
1.) It is always a great size up feature when the age of the building is right on the front! Lets look at the height of the building above the second story window tops. What does that indicate?
2.) What types of problems do the two vehicles create for the stretch? What is your pre-connect length and how will that be affected by pulling up "on the curb"?
3.) Fire showing floor 1 on the A/B corner and the storefront window has blown. Based upon previous fire history and study, with a load of modern furnishings and this increase in air at a low level, how much time do you have to make a stretch with a big line?
4.) Conditions on floor 2 are relatively clear but it looks like the cockloft is roaring. How big is your crew, how much help do you have, and get you react and operate on the floor above, with a significant void space fire?
5.) Preplan any of these buildings that you might have in your area. Also this might be the time to remember the old adage " Go Big, or Go Home!"
Send feedback and answers to info@petelamb.com , and I will discuss your thoughts on this problem.
Stay Safe!
Pete Lamb
1.) It is always a great size up feature when the age of the building is right on the front! Lets look at the height of the building above the second story window tops. What does that indicate?
2.) What types of problems do the two vehicles create for the stretch? What is your pre-connect length and how will that be affected by pulling up "on the curb"?
3.) Fire showing floor 1 on the A/B corner and the storefront window has blown. Based upon previous fire history and study, with a load of modern furnishings and this increase in air at a low level, how much time do you have to make a stretch with a big line?
4.) Conditions on floor 2 are relatively clear but it looks like the cockloft is roaring. How big is your crew, how much help do you have, and get you react and operate on the floor above, with a significant void space fire?
5.) Preplan any of these buildings that you might have in your area. Also this might be the time to remember the old adage " Go Big, or Go Home!"
Send feedback and answers to info@petelamb.com , and I will discuss your thoughts on this problem.
Stay Safe!
Pete Lamb
Sunday, January 27, 2013
60 Second Safety - Fireground Rehab and CO monitoring
This week on 60 second safety a look at adding monitoring for carbon monoxide exposure to the standard set of vitals.
(This is different from monitoring the air, this is using a medical device and monitoring our firefighters blood CO levels)
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN.
Pete Lamb @ Copyright 2012
For information contact pete@petelamb.com
(This is different from monitoring the air, this is using a medical device and monitoring our firefighters blood CO levels)
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN.
Pete Lamb @ Copyright 2012
For information contact pete@petelamb.com
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Cold Weather Operations - Some random thoughts
I probably should have put this one out earlier but with a bunch of serious fires here in Massachusetts and Rhode Island lately, and the single digit temperatures, I thought I would get it out now.
* Always, always circulate water in the pump during cold weather operations. Don't forget quint apparatus either!
* Sand and speeding dri can be used at the front doors and entry points of working fires to prevent members from taking a tumble.
* Keep nozzles flowing to avoid freeze-ups
* Notify the water department so that hydrants that have been used can be drained down, or have anti freeze added.
* Dress in layers whenever you can. I never heard anyone complain about an extra pair of wool socks.
* Camping supply hand Warner's and foot Warner's can be used. (Don't tell the crew they will call you sissy names, but at least you will be warm!)
* If hose and equipment is badly frozen, contact your local towing company and they will assist you with a flat bed so you are not twisting, folding and compressing hose and items that might cause damage.
* Chauffeurs should be extremely conscious of battery maintenance in the extreme cold. Also depending how cold the temps are tire pressures can fluctuate considerably.
* Check for excessive condensation in air brake systems and air ride suspension systems on ambulances.
* Keep your SCBA regulator inside your coat whenever you can due to condensation buildup during use, and temperature change from inside to out.
* Consider a plan for taking care of residents affected by the fire, keep them out of the elements when you can.
* Consider additional alarms sooner. Things will freeze, men will operate slower, and conditions dictate more manpower.
* Remember in single digit temperatures, smoke color may be lighter due to frozen water vapor, and may move slower, and this could affect size up and your initial read of the situation.
* Make sure hydrants, dry hydrants and water holes are cleared out as early as possible.
* Make sure access to boat ramps and ponds are cleared and not ignored, so you have access for ice rescues.
There are tons of these, so feel free to send along any others to info@petelamb.com
Stay safe.......and Stay Warm!
( This post is not intended for our readers in the warmer climates and does not apply to friends I have on the job I'm Florida who tell me it's cold when it is 45 degrees either!)
Pete Lamb @ Copyright 2012
For information contact pete@petelamb.com
* Always, always circulate water in the pump during cold weather operations. Don't forget quint apparatus either!
* Sand and speeding dri can be used at the front doors and entry points of working fires to prevent members from taking a tumble.
* Keep nozzles flowing to avoid freeze-ups
* Notify the water department so that hydrants that have been used can be drained down, or have anti freeze added.
* Dress in layers whenever you can. I never heard anyone complain about an extra pair of wool socks.
* Camping supply hand Warner's and foot Warner's can be used. (Don't tell the crew they will call you sissy names, but at least you will be warm!)
* If hose and equipment is badly frozen, contact your local towing company and they will assist you with a flat bed so you are not twisting, folding and compressing hose and items that might cause damage.
* Chauffeurs should be extremely conscious of battery maintenance in the extreme cold. Also depending how cold the temps are tire pressures can fluctuate considerably.
* Check for excessive condensation in air brake systems and air ride suspension systems on ambulances.
* Keep your SCBA regulator inside your coat whenever you can due to condensation buildup during use, and temperature change from inside to out.
* Consider a plan for taking care of residents affected by the fire, keep them out of the elements when you can.
* Consider additional alarms sooner. Things will freeze, men will operate slower, and conditions dictate more manpower.
* Remember in single digit temperatures, smoke color may be lighter due to frozen water vapor, and may move slower, and this could affect size up and your initial read of the situation.
* Make sure hydrants, dry hydrants and water holes are cleared out as early as possible.
* Make sure access to boat ramps and ponds are cleared and not ignored, so you have access for ice rescues.
There are tons of these, so feel free to send along any others to info@petelamb.com
Stay safe.......and Stay Warm!
( This post is not intended for our readers in the warmer climates and does not apply to friends I have on the job I'm Florida who tell me it's cold when it is 45 degrees either!)
Pete Lamb @ Copyright 2012
For information contact pete@petelamb.com
The I Stair - The Green Maltese Website
This article crossed my desk yesterday and I won't even paraphrase it or change it all, but will just provide the link.
This is a new construction technique that involves a pre fabricated staircase with multiple gusset plate connectors.
Please pass this important safety bulletin throughout your department.
The I Stair at Green Maltese Website
Also if you have not already heard about the Green Maltese or do not have their page bookmarked, please do so there is great information on their website!
Thanks and stay safe!
Pete Lamb @ Copyright 2012
For information contact pete@petelamb.com
This is a new construction technique that involves a pre fabricated staircase with multiple gusset plate connectors.
Please pass this important safety bulletin throughout your department.
The I Stair at Green Maltese Website
Also if you have not already heard about the Green Maltese or do not have their page bookmarked, please do so there is great information on their website!
Thanks and stay safe!
Pete Lamb @ Copyright 2012
For information contact pete@petelamb.com
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