All Videos Tagged RIT/ (My Firefighter Nation) - My Firefighter Nation

Firefighter Forcible Entry: Pulling Hinges from a Metal Door and Jamb

2013-02-12T01:45:33.137Z

This video is intended to answer the questions of when and how would you pull hinges from a metal door and jamb. It’s important to mention that when forcing entry we should start our approach from the lock side FIRST. Attacking the hinges should be a LAST resort due additional obstacles and security measures that can be hidden from view on the inside of the door - Including padlocks, slide bolts, security hinges and door closers - All of which can be located on the hinge side of the door.

Beyond this, FFs should also consider bringing both a set of Irons as well as a circular saw (with steel cutting blade) up to the scene. Having both available will increase your tactical options and allow an efficient transition from Plan A to Plan B, etc.

This video is NOT a recommendation for attacking hinges - It was produced to simply give the viewer a perspective of the time and effort needed to accomplish this task. The best advice I can give is to become proficient in the use of the Irons - When properly implemented by knowledgeable and experienced operators they will be effective in defeating many if not most of the doors you will encounter.

The SAW is a viable option & should be a piece of equipment in your F/E arsenal, but remember these points:
1. The Irons are easier to carry - When split up, 2 FFs can have them in their possession at all times.
2. A set of Irons should be on every rig where saws may not.
3. The Irons will always start, will not run out of gas, or get flooded, or not operate in smoke - Saws can & do malfunction versus the effectiveness of the Irons is based more on the user than the tools themselves.

Train, Be Prepared, Stay Safe, Make the Save - SURVIVE!
Dale G. Pekel

Firefighter Training Prop - The Pitched Roof Attachment

2012-11-19T21:31:32.684Z

This is a new prop that I designed and constructed to be used in conjunction with the FF Training Wall Prop that I first built quite a few years ago - It's called the Pitched Roof Attachment.

A variety of skills can be practiced on this prop which will help prepare FFs to operate more efficiently and safely from pitched roofs. The prop can be adjusted to 3 different pitches including a 6/12, 9/12 and 12/12 - The low height of the prop is great for training new FFs who don't yet feel comfortable or confident working on a full height roof.

Just like the FF Training Wall Prop, there isn't one component in the Pitched Roof Attachment that is longer than 8 feet or wider than 4 feet - This allows the prop to be easily transported and assembled nearly anywhere. On inclement days it can even be set up right inside the apparatus bay of the fire house.

The cost of the Pitched Roof Attachment shown in the video was approximately $300.00. If you're interested in the prop, send me your email address and I will forward the plans FREE of charge.

Train, Be Prepared, Stay Safe, Make the Save - SURVIVE!
Dale G. Pekel

In memory of Sergeant John Carter - DCFD

2012-10-25T00:30:55.356Z

15 years ago today on October 24, 1997 Sergeant John Michael Carter of the Washington D.C. (District of Columbia) Fire Department died in the Line of Duty when he fell through the first floor into the basement while fighting a fire in a grocery store -

May we never forget our fallen and the Valor, Honor and Sacrifice they displayed in the service of others.

Train, Be Prepared, Stay Safe, Make the Save - SURVIVE!
Dale G. Pekel

Using a Girth or Choker Hitch for Victim Rescue

2012-10-06T00:38:47.772Z

This video will demonstrate and explain how to use a webbing loop to fasten a “Girth” or “Choker” hitch for victim rescue. This hitch has many uses, but it also works very well for dragging an unconscious victim.

There are obviously many variations for using webbing to affect a rescue, but what I like about the Girth or Choker hitch is that it’s fast and simple to deploy, very effective and easy to remember. One of the big advantages to the technique shown in the video is that the user never has to let go of the webbing, which makes attaching to the victim that much more efficient.

Train, Be Prepared, Stay Safe, Make the Save - SURVIVE!
Dale G. Pekel

Firefighter Emergency Bailout Technique - The "Hang and Drop"

2012-06-23T16:04:20.488Z

This video will demonstrate the "Hang and Drop" technique. It's a skill used to exit a window when a ladder is not available and the trapped Firefighter is not carrying a Personal Escape or Safety System.

This procedure should be considered a last resort to escape a hostile environment when all other means of egress are cut off or not existent. A key element to this tactic is getting both hands on the sill so you can position your body back upright with your feet below you. Your legs should be straight (or just slightly bent) with your knees and feet touching each other - When you impact the ground you want to immediately bend your knees and role onto your side to minimize the shock on your body. This technique is sometimes referred to as the "Parachute Landing Fall" or "Stuntman Role".

The effectiveness of this procedure will rely on many factors, including: Fire conditions, your fatigue level, if your gloves are wet, the size of the window, the number of Firefighters needing to exit and the obstructions or hazards below the window and on the ground - Are just a few! Your best bet is prevention, but when all else fails carrying survival equipment such as an Escape/Safety System may mean the difference between getting out alive or not getting out at all.

Train, Be Prepared, Stay Safe, Make the Save - SURVIVE!
Dale G. Pekel