FREDERICK COUNTY, Md. — On August 11, 2021, a 46-year-old career fire captain died after falling into the basement of a large single-family home during a structure fire in Maryland. The captain, assigned to Engine 251, transmitted a Mayday after the floor collapsed beneath him. Despite rapid intervention efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
The incident underscores the dangers of low-frequency, high-risk residential fires and highlights the importance of thorough scene size-up, effective incident management, and maintaining crew integrity.
Key investigation findings
The incident involved a low-frequency, high-risk fire in a large residential structure, which posed unique challenges for incident management and operational decision-making. The complexity of the structure and fire conditions contributed to the captain’s fall into the basement.
A comprehensive 360-degree scene size-up was not completed prior to interior operations. This lack of full assessment limited the incident commander’s understanding of the building layout and fire progression, impacting strategic decisions.
Crew integrity was compromised during the operation. The captain was operating alone in the fire room when the floor collapsed, highlighting the need for teams to maintain contact and operate in pairs, especially in hazardous environments.
The initial rapid intervention crew (IRIC) was not adequately established at the onset of interior operations. This delay in deploying a dedicated rescue team may have affected the timeliness and effectiveness of the rescue efforts.
Recommended department actions
Implement a robust incident management system that includes thorough scene size-up, risk assessment, and development of a strategic incident action plan. This aligns with NFPA 1561, which provides guidance on emergency services incident management.
Ensure all personnel maintain crew integrity by operating in teams and maintaining constant communication. This practice is supported by NFPA 1500, which emphasizes the importance of team continuity and accountability.
Establish and deploy an initial rapid intervention crew (IRIC) at the beginning of interior operations. Having a dedicated team ready for immediate rescue aligns with best practices and enhances firefighter safety.
Provide ongoing professional development and training focused on low-frequency, high-risk incidents. Regular drills and scenario-based training can prepare personnel for complex situations and improve decision-making under pressure.
Utilize thermal imaging cameras during scene size-up and interior operations to identify structural weaknesses and fire progression. This technology aids in assessing hazards and making informed tactical decisions.
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Training discussion questions
- How can comprehensive scene size-up influence the development of an effective incident action plan?
- What strategies can be implemented to ensure crew integrity is maintained during interior operations?
- How does the early establishment of an IRIC impact the outcome of firefighter rescue efforts?
Hands-on drill
Title: Basement Fire Operations and Floor Collapse Awareness
Objective: Train firefighters to recognize signs of potential floor collapse and execute safe interior operations in structures with basements.
| WATCH NOW: On-demand webinar: Basement fires: Tactical options for the threat below
Props/Apparatus: Use a training facility with a mock basement setup. Incorporate smoke machines to simulate low-visibility conditions.
Safety Considerations: Ensure all participants are equipped with full PPE and SCBA. Monitor environmental conditions and have a safety officer oversee the drill.
Success Criteria: Participants should demonstrate the ability to perform a 360-degree scene size-up, identify hazards indicating potential floor collapse, maintain crew integrity and execute a coordinated interior attack with an established RIC.
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