| Essential details of
the situation:
While fighting a fire during the winter, my leg fell through a
plastic basement window covering. Fortunately for me, my leg went
straight down and stopped approximately twelve inches below ground
level.
The reason this happened was because the ground was snow covered and
so was the plastic window cover. At this same incident many firefighters
slipped and some fell as they walked in the front door of the residence
when their wet boots made contact with the ceramic tile floor.
Lessons Learned or Reinforced:
When snow covers the ground, don't forget it can be covering many
dangers to firefighters: basement windows, ponds, pools, ice, and uneven
surfaces are just a few of the unseen hazards.
Take the time to probe the ground in suspected areas, and if time and
manpower permits, clear the walkways.
Throw sand and if possible contact city agencies for assistance to
deal with snow, ice and water.
Training Suggestions:
Review hazards that may be covered by snow in your districts.
Remind each other during responses about slips, trips and fall
hazards.
Insure sand is available to be used for quick fix areas, such as
walkways into buildings or around pump panels.
Submitted by:
FF. Steve O'Gorman Elizabeth Local Nine
Do you have a POP
Fax to 732 499 9633 or mail to:
NJ State FMBA 1447 Campbell St. Rahway, NJ 70065-3212
Attention: Health & Safety Chairman Paul Kearns
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