“If I could find a way out, Chief, I would. I’m stuck.”
On November 27, 2018, Lieutenant Patti Krafft of Dallas (TX) Fire-Rescue transmitted that message over the radio. While searching for occupants during an apartment fire, her crew’s exit was cut off by fire. Once she recognized the precarious situation she and her team were facing, she knew she needed help. A chief outside issued a Mayday for the crew. Rapid intervention team (RIT) crews standing-by outside the burning building were ready for the rescue.
Engine 48 was assigned to search the second floor of the apartment building. The fast moving fire in the hallway was spotted by Firefighter Tamika Lamb. Lieutenant Krafft gathered her crew and began looking for a way out of the apartment. Outside, the incident commander saw conditions changed and ordered Engine 48 to evacuate the building. It was then that Lieutenant Krafft advised she and her crew were unable to find their way out. A Mayday was announced and resources were directed to begin rescuing the trapped crew. USAR 19 was the RIT and had been monitoring the radio. Their preparation led to the successful rescue of Engine 48. Learn more about the incident in the video below.
Lessons Learned
- RIT should stage close to hazard zone
- Monitor radio, listen for red flags
- Preparation, both training and once on the scene
This incident emphasized the need to prepare. This preparation should start in the firehouse with reviewing procedures, getting familiar with equipment, and training on techniques for firefighter rescue, then continue to the fireground when we are standing-by as the RIT team. The Dallas Fire-Rescue had special units trained in firefighter rescue. Once on the scene, they staged in the best position, listened to the radio, and were prepared for the rescue. This preparation resulted in the rescue of three firefighters.
This month’s skill/drill is to practice a RIT deployment. Gather the RIT basic tools: air and rope. Have a member assume the role of the down firefighter and hide. Once the Mayday call is issued, have the RIT deploy to locate, package, and remove the down firefighter. This basic drill will help to prepare us for this important assignment. NOW….go practice!!
Don’t forget to send pics/videos of you and your crew performing the skill drill! Send to tcarroll@louisa.org.
Tony Carroll is deputy chief of operations with the Louisa County (VA) Fire & EMS Department.
