By FireRescue1 Staff
HOUSTON — The Houston Fire Department is emphasizing the need for firefighter safety at fires following the death of two members last Easter.
Captain James Harlow and rookie Damien Hobbs were killed while searching for victims in a burning house later determined to have been empty.
Hoping to prevent more firefighter deaths, officials have since developed a plan called “the 10 survival rules,” reported local FOX station KRIV.
“This is an inherently dangerous job but what we want them to do is perform a risk-benefit analysis when they roll up on the scene,” said HFD Assistant Fire Chief Carl Matejka.
However, IAFF Local 341 President Jeff Caynon says regular firefighters were not involved in developing the plan and is concerned the rules may lead to unwarranted discipline.
“There are common sense situations and circumstances where it may be more sensible to ignore one of those rules and take some other action,” he said.
Some of the rules include “follow your training and education” and “don’t risk your life for an empty house or building,” according to the report.
The new rules will be issued to the full fire department next Thursday.