Ladder Bailout

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Permalink Reply by Mike France on November 4, 2011 at 4:39pm

Would like to use for our guys to watch.

 

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Permalink Reply by Jason Hoevelmann on November 4, 2011 at 4:40pm

Have at it!

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Permalink Reply by Mike France on November 4, 2011 at 4:43pm

Thanks , there is very little around here in NY to teach this stuff.

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Permalink Reply by Jason Hoevelmann on November 4, 2011 at 4:46pm

Anytime, if there is something in particular you are looking for, let me know and I will get it to you.

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Permalink Reply by Michael Bricault (ret) on November 6, 2011 at 3:30pm

-This is a ladder bailout techniques that we started teaching our people about ten years ago.  That being said, the technique is sound and does work provided the student learns it from a qualified instructor in a very safe environment.

-The limitation to the technique is that it depends on the ladder being set at a more shallow angle than is typical in the fire service.  Most firefighters learn that ground ladders are to be set at an approximate 75* angle which is to steep to perform this ladder bailout maneuver safely.

-The reason for mentioning this is that if this technique is to be a viable option on a dynamic fireground than all ground ladders must be raised with the intention of being used in a bailout maneuver. Under such circumstances there will be little to no time to raise and properly position a ground ladder for a true bailout. But, depending on the size of your department, the solution is as simple as re-training all members in the "new" positioning angle of ground ladders when they are instructed in the bailout technique.

-The other possible solution is what many departments are implementing, and what may soon become a national standard, the issuing of a bailout kit that is worn over the bunker gear.  The kit consists of an anchor, a harness, a friction/control device and escape line.  Easily deployable that rapidly gets the firefighter out of the IDLH.

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Permalink Reply by John K. Murphy on November 14, 2011 at 9:48am

Jason - any thoughts about training for an auditorium raise and the safety requirements?

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Permalink Reply by Bryan Goustos on November 15, 2011 at 8:11am

We have been teaching that we set the ladder at the exaggerated angle for windows, at or slightly beneath the sill. This allows for bail outs and easier rescues as the weight is taken up by the ladder. If you are going to the roof the standard 70-75 degree angle is used with 4-5 rungs above the edge.

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Permalink Reply by Jason Hoevelmann on November 16, 2011 at 12:37pm

I look into that. Haven't done that in years.  Nice idea.

John K. Murphy said:

Jason - any thoughts about training for an auditorium raise and the safety requirements?

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