Recently, a group has been conducting an evolution with our aerial platform consisting of the following:
- Pulling up to our training building and setting the aerial to an upper story window (2nd floor for example)
- Connecting a 100' line in the platform to the standpipe also in the platform, draping it down the ladder, and charging it
- Advancing through the window and attacking a simulated fire somewhere on the upper floor.
I strongly question the logic in such an evolution. In my opinion, you should not routinely commit the aerial device and truck crew to such a task. I don't believe in committing our only aerial device to a window when it would be better off getting a vent crew to the roof, or being ready to rescue a victim/ff.
I can see using this as a RIT evolution for a downed FF to protect-in-place... or... if you are 6 or 7 stories up, to take advantage of the flying standpipe. But... in your "typical" residential fire, is it smart to do something like this? If it is necessary to get a line in to the second floor, would we be better off throwing a hand ladder and bringing the line up via it?
I'm convinced that the line in the platform is best used for RIT, overhaul, or as a safety line while venting/opening-up a commercial building. It seems like the engine company is trying to do truck company work.
- Pulling up to our training building and setting the aerial to an upper story window (2nd floor for example)
- Connecting a 100' line in the platform to the standpipe also in the platform, draping it down the ladder, and charging it
- Advancing through the window and attacking a simulated fire somewhere on the upper floor.
I strongly question the logic in such an evolution. In my opinion, you should not routinely commit the aerial device and truck crew to such a task. I don't believe in committing our only aerial device to a window when it would be better off getting a vent crew to the roof, or being ready to rescue a victim/ff.
I can see using this as a RIT evolution for a downed FF to protect-in-place... or... if you are 6 or 7 stories up, to take advantage of the flying standpipe. But... in your "typical" residential fire, is it smart to do something like this? If it is necessary to get a line in to the second floor, would we be better off throwing a hand ladder and bringing the line up via it?
I'm convinced that the line in the platform is best used for RIT, overhaul, or as a safety line while venting/opening-up a commercial building. It seems like the engine company is trying to do truck company work.
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