As with any firefighter line-of-duty-death, it will take quite a while before the details of this incident are completely understood.
Regardless of the specific circumstances around this tragic event, we already know that vertical ventilation can be a risky evolution, even when performed by experienced and skilled firefighters.
Incident commanders must always weigh the costs and benefits of vertical ventilation, along with other ventilation options, when selecting fireground strategy and tactics.
Garden apartment buildings of this vintage and construction type can be found all across the United States, in cities and counties of all sizes.
Along with the usual list of size-up considerations, understanding building construction features is critically important for both ICs and company officers tasked with performing vertical ventilation.
Developing this familiarity requires ongoing professional development, area familiarization, and a constant willingness to train. As the late Frank Brannigan used to say, “know the enemy.”
We all stand with Dallas Fire-Rescue and Lt. Krodle’s family...
