Report Number: 05-0000240
Report Date: 05/27/2005

Event Description

Company (number deleted) was dispatched to a structure. On arrival we found a 2 story split-level residential structure 50% involved in fire. The portion burning had already collapsed in on itself. The fire had not extended yet to the remaining portion of the house. By this time we had two more engines and a Battalion Chief on scene. We made an attempt to do a quick search of the downstairs but conditions deteriorated rapidly forcing us to apply water from the outside. At this time, which probably wasn't more than 10 or 15 minutes into the incident, I was assigned to side "D" as Safety. We had a two-man crew, 1 captain & 1 firefighter operating a 1.75" handline into a basement window. They were only there for a minute or two when I noticed a portion of the second story exterior wall leaning IN. The crew was not operating in the collaspe zone. I walked over to the captain to advise him of the hazard. They were retreating when the wall suddenly fell OUT towards me. I did not see or hear the wall fall, but I do remember hearing the guys shout out. It was too late for me to react. The wood framed wall, which I was told was the size of a standard one car garage door, struck me in the head and shoulders driving me to the ground. I was in full turnout gear and was not injured too seriously, just banged up. The other captain was partially hit but not injured. I was told that my actions kept the two firefighters from being hit by the wall. This was my first fire on a ladder truck. I had previously been assigned to an engine company for many years. This was not a factor in this accident. I saw a problem, reacted and the wall fell. It took only a few seconds. I always have crew safety first in my mind. I simply did not think the wall would fall so quickly nor did I think I was inside the collapse zone. I apparently was only a few inches inside of it because the top of the wall is what hit me. If I had been a little closer to the wall the end result could have been catastrophic.

Lesson Learned

1. Expect the unexpected. I never thought that I would be caught by a falling wall. 2. This is a dangerous business-don't ever get caught off guard. 3. Do not operate handlines too close to a building which is going to be a total loss. Shout out to the crew, use the radio or simply keep everyone a safer distance back.

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