Report Number: 05-0000242
Report Date: 05/27/2005
Event Description
Incident: Two-alarm apartment fire. While investigating for fire extension, two firefighters were searching upstairs apartment. Smoke conditions were present and firefighters were in full SCBA. Firefighters were aware of possible floor weakness due to fire below in downstairs apartment. Firefighters were proceeding slowly and checking floor in front of them for structural weakness. Lead firefighter entered bathroom of apartment and floor gave way causing him to fall thru floor. Firefighter caught himself at waist level. Firefighter was wedged in floor and his partner was unable to free him, due to the confined spaces in the bathroom. Firefighter called for Mayday and stated firefighter was trapped in floor. Crews were nearby, and entered apartment. Firefighter was freed after approximately 3 minutes and assisted from apartment. EMS on location checked firefighter for injuries. Firefighter was not injured. Firefighter's partner suffered a minor laceration to thumb while attempting to free him from the floor.
Firefighters were interviewed by Safety Officer for step-by-step details of what happened, and what could have been done to prevent the incident.
Lesson Learned
Firefighters were following the correct procedures by checking floor in front of them. Fire was under control at the time of the search. Decision had been made by command not to enter the apartment until fire conditions were favorable to do so. Firefighters were being cautious and handled the situation according to department SOG. Response to Mayday was recognized by Fire Sector Officer and firefighters were sent to assist immediately.
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