RIT Prevention: Basement Considerations

From Jason Hoevelmann of Engine House Training, LLC

We have all been assigned as the Rapid Intervention Team at some point in our career.  For most of us, I hope that we have taken a positive attitude and were looking for ways to prevent the need for RIT.

But, not all are so in tune with what needs to be done when assigned as RIT.  I have witnessed crews complaining and standing next to an engine with a couple of hand tools, a RIT bag and a flash light.  Good thing they were there or the engine would have rolled away, if you know what I mean.

This post is going to touch briefly on some basement considerations when assigned at RIT.  Feel free to add your comments and suggestions as well.

The pictures above show just a couple of the obstacle that could cause interior crews problems. As the RIT we want to identify these as soon as possible. That means we must be proactive and get around the building. But, operate within your guidelines and the IC needs to know what you are doing and when and where. Communication is key.

The first set of pictures shows fencing over the exterior door and stairs to the basement. This exit can be blocked by decks being built over them, bulkheads, storage, and any other obstacle you can think of. Open it up, clear it or force the locked mechanisms to allow a quick exit by interior crews if needed.

The second set of pictures shows the basement access in the garage. On this particular house and many others in the same area, the only access and is through the garage. Some of these exterior stairs and some do not. This can be a challenge for interior crews looking for access in smokey environments and for RIT crews looking for access from the exterior.

The key is for RIT to know their area and be proactive on the fireground. Identify potential hazards to crews for egress and fix them. Eliminate the need for RIT before it is needed.

As always, train hard and stay safe.

Jason