GRABS Podcast: Recent Episodes
Brothers in Battle Media
GRABS Podcast: Grant Schwalbe and Justin McWilliams bringing you the stories of the victim rescues being made all over the country.
Grabs 164 Orange Township Fire Department, Indiana (April 14, 2025)
Chief Gene Landers
Chief pulls up on house fire, met by mom that said baby was inside.
Mom ran inside and chief followed her, quick grab by mom (18 month kid) <1 min
Crews arrived and this became a bread and butter fire.
Take-aways
Set up of command vehicle, be prepared for firefight by yourself.
No mask bag with SCBA, speed up
Grabs 163 Carson City, NV (5/16/2018)
Jon Pedrini., Battalion Chief
Carson City Fire Department
05/16/2018
2-story wood framed multi family apartment
5minutes
8yr old male
120lbs Second floor window
Always be ready, fast turnout and mask up times make a difference
If your job is to clear a window for removal make sure you clear it out completely
Room isolation. Shutting the door and isolating the room from fire makes conditions immediately better.
Train often on the drill grounds and in the gym. Make sure the training is realistic and functional.
Grabs 162 South Metro Fire Rescue, Colorado (March 2025)
First truck assigned all in VES Delta side.
Taylor Slaught Firefighter
Vince Pratt Engineer
House converted to Assisted Living
Initial Call as AFA, then upgraded to working fire with 6 trapped.
High windows
First window-heard vict call out from bed. 3 in first, pass victim out window head first.
Extending search from first room, bathroom and door swing (good orientation)
Find second victim in hall face down, dragged victim to same room where victim 1 came out.
Third victim heavy
Fourth victim-a lot of hands trying to make grabs.
Fifth victim found and removed by engine company.
All victims out and fire out in 12 minutes.
1)Fire attack supports search
2)when to VES vs going in through normal egress points.
3)when to extend your search beyond the initial VES room.
4)victim handling/when to take them out a window or go through a normal egress point.
5)making the decision when you locate a victim whether to hand them off to an exterior crew and continue searching or take the victim out and you stay with them until they are transported.
Grabs 161 Orem Fire Department, UT, (7/19/2025)
Name and Rank: Austin McBride Firefighter Critical Care Paramedic
Department Name: City of Orem Fire Department
Date of Grab: 7/19/2025
Type of building: 2 story residential with add-on/DIY construction. Ill add a picture so you can reference it.
Approx time from arrival to removal: 7 minutes
Weight of the victim (approximately): 140
Method of removal: VES, removed out of second story window via ladders.
3-4 takeaways for show notes: 1) Due to communication lapses, I ended up performing the search alone, so I had to modify our standard search tactics: 2 people,1 isolates, one searches. Due to no visibility and quick location of the victim right by the window, isolating the door was delayed to effect the rescue. We can talk about the fire conditions and why I made that decision. 2) The window we brought the victim out of had a car parked right in front of it, so ladders were augmented to the side of the car, making the rescue more difficult (for those who encounter this in the future, stick that ladder right through the windshield) 3) Instead of bending the victim's legs at the window and hoisting the victim out the window, I found clean air right at the window and sat him up just below the window while I waited for ladders to be thrown and help to arrive to me. 4) I was engineer (driver) that day, so I was in a pumping mindset. Once an audible was called and our assignment was changed to rescue mode, I found myself lacking some critical equipment once performing the rescue: Radio, tool and water can. Take away: Always prepare for a potential rescue or for an audible to be called, even if you are a driver (Engineer), or even a fourth due arrival you never know.
Grabs 160 Minnesota (October 7, 2024)
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Nick speaks with a Captain about a grab made in October from an anonymous Dept in Minnesota.
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Captain Dustin Kunnari
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Two-story SFD
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~140 lbs
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4-person lift out the window to a porch roof, then brought to the ground via parallel ladders
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Arrival until removal was approx 6-8 minutes.
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Search method and tactic was window initiated split search.
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Victim was located with naked eye
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Takeaways
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Every structure is occupied
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Plan on being the crew who will make the grab with reports of victims
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Have a plan for search and removal and be on the same page as your crew.
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Be aggressive and be ready to make a difference.
Grabs 159 Moncton, New Brunswick (March 15, 2025)
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Andrew Wainright and Chris Colford
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Truck 4 (Quint) arrived second
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Came in as AFA 10 story HR around 1730
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Nothing showing upon arrival, no additional reports.
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Panel-Smoke detector and water flow, residents reported smoke on 8.
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Elevators to 6-could smell it.
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8th floor-dirty hall, smoke pushing out of closed apartment door (first apartment on right)
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Search ahead of the hose line with can and irons, dropped bundles in hall. Split search.
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TIC issues, communication problems with sprinkler noise and alarm going off.
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Couch fire, used can, then vented.
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Closed bedroom door-good viz compared to rest of the apartment.
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Found male victim unconscious at feet of the lazy boy. On back with feet towards Andrew
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Leg drag-found hall and walked straight back, took victim hall. Chris met up with Andrew and Captain.
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Victim was slippery. Arms and Legs once in the hallway.
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Portable radio was off-transmission never went out.
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Took victim to elevator bank, elevator control brought it up and they took victim to lobby.
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Delay for EMS to get there. They are not dispatched on AFA.
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Not convinced they had completed the search of the apartment.
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https://firetrainingassociates.ca/
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https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=JhcOp9Z7XGw
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Grabs 158 South Adams County Fire, Co (June 17, 2024)
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BC Andrew Fairban, LT Paulie Johnston,, Eng John Warmeth, FF Antony Giana
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152 p multiple calls
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2 story house with crawl space (Converted to multi-family)
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Reported victim trapped in wheelchair.
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2nd due all in for search
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Entrance blocked due to car fire, awning collapse (Also blocked stairs to basement-hidden)
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2 people in basement
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Chief found basement window and victims, Tk28 came
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Basement window entry difficult
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Moderate smoke in basement but good lift
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Longest time was to find that there was a basement. Once located victims came out quick
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Smaller victims, 1st able to assist (boost out) second handed out.
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Grabs 157 North Hudson, NJ (January 23, 2025)
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Nick speaks with Peter Mancini about a grab they made on January 23, 2025 in North Hudson, NJ
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Peter Mancini-captain
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North Hudson Fire & Rescue
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January 23rd
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33 story hi rise
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0939 removal less than 20 minutes
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female weight approximately 160 pounds age 77
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rope rescue from 29th floor balcony, fire was on the floor below. best to stay on balcony and shelter in place.
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Crew
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John Antommarchi 24 yrs
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Phil Jawny 12 yrs. rescuer
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Jamie Montes 12 yrs anchor man
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Kevin Greenfield 7 yrs control man
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train like you play.
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the importance of tool assignment
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you’re only as good as your crew.
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Grabs 156 Arvada Fire Protection District, CO (December 12, 2022)
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Grant speaks with Phil and Tom from Arvada Fire Protection District about a grab made on December 14, 2022.
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Phil Stover, FF/medic and Tom Lyons, Lt/medic
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3 level large multi family (Interior hall apartments-60ish)
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Known victim floor 1/fire floor
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PD evacuated on floor 2
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12:01 from air brake to removal
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Vict 120 pounds
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Dirty drag/ arm and leg
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Takeaways:
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1) communication,
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2) getting low,
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3) situational awareness,
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4) complacency (take every radio transmission with a grain of salt)
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Grabs 155 Mesa, AZ (August 20, 2017)
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Nick speaks with Chris Sleigher and Kasey Beal about a grab they made on August 20, 2017
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Chris Sleigher (current BC), Captain at the time of the grab.
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Kasey Beal (current Chief 1 of Golden [CO] FD, BC at the time of the grab.
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Mesa Fire And Medical Department.
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August 20, 2017, single-story, ordinary construction.
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Approximately five minutes between arrival, time, and victim removal.
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The weight of the victim was over 300 pounds.
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The removal method was performing the Denver drill out of an elevated window.
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Some of the takeaways were the IC was able to have tactical patience and understand the impacts of the flow path and victim removal. Trusting and training your cruise and departmental support and expect expectations through standard operation procedures.
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YouTube video of Fairview Fire Review...https://youtu.be/Es67SVABGc0
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Takeaways-Ensure the 3-deep model for resources on working fires, especially with persons reported, backfill ambulances or rescues for firefighters, drop CyanoKits on smoke inhalation victims (us or them) strong command presence, predictable deployment of resources, commit on deck crews to support search, rescue and fire control, Plan B isn’t Plan A harder.
Grabs 154 Midwest City, OK (1/18/25)
Grant speaks with Dan Herren about a grab they made on 1/18/25
Captain Dan Herren
6:30 AM Toned to mutual aid fire (Spencer)
Engine on scene already from Spencer with line stretched.
Arrival 7:50 after first engine
1 story 800 SF SFD (Fire showing from roof)
Go straight to BC corner
Window search-Upon taking noticed floor to ceiling hoarding conditions
Chose different room to start. Search room and then into hall and rest of house.
Victim found in bathroom (by second rescuer to search it)
Dirty drag back to front door (path of least resistance) Arms and Legs (Head first)
250 lbs not slippery and fully clothed.
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Grabs 153 Iona McGregor Fire (Fort Myers, FL) (1/23/25)
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Grant speaks with Nick Fischer about a grab he made on 1/23/25
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BC first arrive on scene
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Light smoke showing.
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Reported victim inside
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Engine 2 minutes behind BC
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BC went in-smoke down to 3’, ducked under smoke and found victim in bedroom
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150 lb vict-put over shoulder to remove.
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Saw the fire in the closet, isolated bedroom on way out.
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Gave incoming units their assignments and did 360 prior to arrival of next in.
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Discussion on go no go for BC arriving before suppression unit.
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Grabs 152 San Diego, CA (1/19/2025)
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Nick speaks with Michael Culver about a grab they made on 1/19/25
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Name and Rank: Michael Culver, Firefighter 3 / PM
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Department Name: San Diego Fire-Rescue Dept
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Date of Grab: 1/19/25
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Type of building: single story Residential
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Approx time from arrival to removal: arrival 18:32, removal 18:35
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Weight of the victim (approximately): 110 lbs
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Method of removal: lift and cradle carry, handled to another firefighter out the window.
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3-4 takeaways for show notes: assignment flexiblity, don't attempt something mult times if not working, risk considerations
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Grabs 151 Watauga Fire Department, TX (1/7/2025)
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1/7/25
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Grant speaks with Clayton Miller about a grab they made on 1/7/25
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FF Clayton Miller
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2 story residential
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2317-2325
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Vict weight 285
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Under arm and leg drag to window, out the window of the room
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On scene, family told us exactly where he was in the house. Victim said that when he couldn’t get out, he got as low as he could and waited for our guys to come get them. Guy was stable upon removal and medic crew that found him transported him. Cyanokit was administered. House was high content load, the fire was relatively small but conditions in the fire room were good. Good visibility, but everything in the house was cluttered
Grabs 150 East Madison, IN (6/12/24)
Nick speaks with Kyle Thomas about a grab they made on 6/12/24
Kyle Thomas, Captain
East Madison Fire Territory
6/12/2024
2 story single family home
Approx time from arrival to removal (4 minutes to removal)
Weight of the victim (approximately 110lbs)
Method of removal (Simple grab and drag)
A few takeaways I had were people are hot when they're in a fire and very slick.
I did a simple left handed search and located her. Probably should have used my TIC but honestly didn't think about it.
I found her with my hands and probably would have missed her if I had tried searching with a tool.
Grabs 149 Spokane Fire, Washington (4/20/24)
Grant speaks with Brennen and Cliff about a grab they make in Spokane on 4/20/24
Brennen Cooke (FF) and Cliff York (Driver)
Story and a half balloon frame house 1600 SF
Heavy Fire front of structure (neighbor called, unknown occupants)
Split Search
Hoarder Conditions
Arrival to first victim out- about 7 minutes
7 minutes from first victim to last victim out
2 year old boy, 7 year old boy, ~275lb adult male, ~300+ lb adult female
All 4 came out the half story window
If forcing a door, do life fire layout immediately; don't clear jamb and then finish what you're doing first
Actually might have to dig for victims in hoarder conditions
Do more training with cyano-kits
Bring a ladder every time when assigned for search
Make sure to do a victim 360
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Grabs 148 Bowling Green, KY (1/26/2022)
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Jeffrey Bryant speaks with Corey Mahaney about a grab made on January 26th, 2022
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Some takeaways that I have are, I wish I would have flipped him over on his back. Because I was so close to the door and he was just laying on trash I drug him out face first. When we got off the truck we had a bystander in the yard saying that the victim ran back inside to look for his cat. We knew his last known location and did a targeted search based off our information. I remember there was thick black smoke pushing out of the front door and it was banked down to within a couple feet of the floor. Once I got right inside the door I could see his feet and knew he was face down. Quick mask up time is one thing that I think made this a quick grab. I was masking up as I was walking across the yard and when I got to the front door I was ready to go in. After the victim was out in the yard I opened his mouth and it has just a coating of black soot inside. Other firemen on scene took over patient care then the Patient was transported to a burn center. He is still alive as far as I know. After this me and my captain did VES to other rooms. The first victim was the only person located. The first room we tried to do VES through a window and stuff was stacked from the floor to ceiling we couldn’t make entry. The 2nd window I was able to climb in, while my captain stayed out with the tic. I was climbing on trash and I will never forget it was clear as could be in the room and before I got the whole room searched I had fire on top of the ceiling just rolling toward the flow path the broken window made. I know this is not part of the grab but it was the only experience I have had on the fire ground like this.
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Grabs 147 Cobb County, GA (Dec 7, 2024)
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Jake Rogers, Captain Sean Gray
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https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=SzbLMjyczK0
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Jake’s first fire, second week on the job.
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Residential fire right around the corner.
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Basement fire with flames showing.
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Initial plan was stretch 1.75” line, 30’ setback to bravo side.
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Met by woman at AB corner, screaming that her husband was inside. (Soot on her face)
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In bed, disabled and had dementia, right inside front door to the left.
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Pivoted to rescue mode and made entry in front door.
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15’ down and 15’ back from door.
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No viz and hot
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Cobb county uses feet against the wall.
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Called out when he got to room, was quiet and heard groaning. Found Hospital bed with lots of blankets and victim.
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Pulled victim to legs and then ground from the bed. 160-170 lbs
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Wrist lock for removal and protected his head as best he could.
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Went out using bottle against the wall until met by LT. LT lead him the rest of the way out.
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Victim out before second due arrived. 1:30-2 min.
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Passed victim off and continued with fire attack.
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https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/12Keugk3hwb5G-pJdMEmyVv2BPaochHgJ
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Grabs 146 Rural Metro
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Nick Ledin Speaks with Nick Johnson about a grab they had on Dec 6, 2024
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Nick Johnson, Resident Firefighter
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Rural Metro Fire
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Dec 6th 2024
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Single Wide Trailer
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3-4 minutes
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180-200 pounds
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Drag method
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Listening to occupants on the location of a victim is absolutely necessary to ensure a quick rescue.
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Planning in the truck enroute to call the also helps speed up rescue time as each member knows their job when the company is in rescue mode.
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Backseat guys need to absolutely be ready to go interior coming off the truck.
Grabs 145 Mandan Fire, ND (1/14/2024)
JB talks with Lt Erik Short from Mandan Fire. They talk about a grab that was made on 1/14/24
Air consumption rate during a rescue.
How smaller departments can/ need to have a culture of being aggressive.
Getting solid Intel on possible victims.
Practical training.
Grabs 144 Fort Worth, Texas (8/10/24)
Trevor Poitevent - Captain
Brad Adamcik - Engineer
Fort Worth Fire Department
August 10, 2024
1 story single family residence
2-2.5 minutes from arrival to out the window
125-140 lb 94 year old female
Headfirst out window, it was a known victim with solid location information. It was a window based search and rescue.
Takeaways
1) Every Ems call is a learning opportunity for fire. From layouts, burglar bars, interesting construction. We had been to this house before and knew where her bedroom was and her lack of mobility should have her confined to a small area.
2). Where there’s one, there’s two, always assume multiple victims. We didn’t have a second victim but we were thinking it because we knew her son lived with her.
3). Have plans, talk about your playbook and don’t think the same thing happens at every fire. Mental reps count and everyone being on the same page based on the given circumstances was a huge help, I didn’t have to give any direction as the officer, the guys went to work. We coordinated well with the next engine, with minimal discussion, due to our close relationship with them.
4) be ready on arrival, FF’s were masked up coming off the rig.
5). I know you said 3-4 but here’s another. If you can Isolate the space, do it. But be prepared for that option to be nonexistent.
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Grabs 143 Coventry Twp, OH (10/30/24)
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LT. Mike Gasaway
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10/30/24
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Single Story Wood Frame
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Came in as people trapped
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Front of house fire showing, one person out with a diagram of layout.
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03:15-03:23(1st one) 03:27 2nd one
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250lbs
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Denver Drill
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1- All Mutual Aid getting toned at same time
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2- Mutual Aid med unit on first alarm
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3- Minimal talking on fire ground. Lots of face to face
Grabs 142 Charlotte County, FL (9/27/2024)
Grant speaks with Shawn and Dennis about a grab they made on a fire while being deployed on Hurricane Helene.
Engineer Dennis Kerr-North Collier Fire
Captain Shawn Robinson-South Trail Fire
FLUSAR TF6
While out doing area surveys/rescue a fire was in there area.
Responded on side by side in USAR gear, no fire gear. Arrived before engine.
Manufactured home with heavy fire in carport, extending into house.
PD with wife stating everyone was out, neighbor stating husband went back in.
With no PPE Dennis and Shawn went in from C side, smoke banked halfway down. Victim found by carport door.
Dirty drag to bring victim out C-Side and then around to front. Ended up taking victim to awaiting rescue in side by side.
Don’t listen to bystander reports…even from cops.
Grabs 141 Glasgo Fire, Kentucky (10/27/24)
Grant speaks with Colin Manley
9:52 PM Came in as house fire from neighbor
4 plex apartment/townhouse
Smoke showing from C side eves
During 360 heard beating on the window
Crew threw ladders to window
Officer went front door-first floor clear, Smoke 6’ down off second floor (no hoselne)
Life fire layout at top of stairs-Found room with trapped occupant.
Clutter in room, found victims ankle-he was standing
Victim came down on FF and was combative.
Vict then went unconscious.
Victim was slippery-6’ 230 lbs
Multiple FF’s helped drag him down the stairs-Wrist lock-head first :
44 seconds from arrival.
Second floor fire, adjacent room.
Lessons-take a TIC, Pay attention on 360, Pay attention for your way out, pillows and blankets on the floor feel like victims and make way out hard. Victim weight and slippery. Multiple drag techniques
Grabs 14- Fort Dodge, IA (11/17/24)
Name and Rank:
-Kyle Porter Firefighter/Paramedic
Department Name:
-Fort Dodge Fire Rescue
Date of Grab:
11/17/24
Type of Building:
-3 Story Ordinary Construction
-Multifamily Dwelling built in 1895
-22’ wide by 140’ deep
-Approx 5 units not conforming to code
Arrival to Removal:
-3 minutes
Weight of Victim:
-110 pounds
Method of Removal:
-24’ ground ladder with a 14’ roof ladder spliced
-Hooks of the roof ladder were placed into the window. The ledge was wider than
opening on hooks, so those were not hooked into the room.
-I told the victim she was going to have to climb onto the ladder as I had to push the roof
ladder into the 24’ extension and also pull down on the roof ladder to keep it from sliding on the ledge of the window.
-I assisted her in transferring to the extension ladder and stayed behind her while moving to the ground.
-The victim was then able to walk away from the building and head towards ambulance staging.
Show Notes:
1) Prior to my shift beginning at 0700 on 11/16 I came in to work at 0330 for a second alarm on the shift prior to mine for a single family dwelling fire. That fire included extensive overhaul and we did not clear the scene until shift change.
2) At 0220 on 11/17 we were dispatched to an intersection where a police officer reported a structure fire fully engulfed with occupants still inside. We were responding in what we call a “broken play”. We were clearing from a natural gas leak in a restaurant when we were dispatched to the structure fire. Our Incident Commander was the farthest from the structure fire. Our IC normally is first on scene and can give crews a mode of operation/play prior to our arrival with his arrival report.
a) My engine I was assigned to was the first on scene simultaneously with the next engine.
b) The engine I was assigned to operates with duties as a truck would. We were also on a reserve engine that day as the apparatus we normally operate with is out of service for repairs.
c) The road was completely blocked by police squad cars hindering our access to the scene and denied us the ability to get a good view of the structure.
3) When I dismounted the apparatus as the driver, normally I would retrieve my SCBA, Helmet and other needed equipment from an outside compartment. I was met by multiple people in the roadway stating someone was hanging out of a window and that we would need a ladder to get her out. I retrieved the 24’ ladder off of our engine and went to the delta side of the building where the victim was found leaning out of a 3rd story window.
a) Incident command arrived at that time. He mentioned using a 35’ ladder to get the height we needed. I advised him we did not currently have an apparatus on scene that carried a 35’ ladder. At that time the engine company was able to park in front of the building. The IC grabbed the roof ladder while I was talking to the victim from the 24’ ladder. He handed me the roof ladder and I leaned it into the window.
b) With the hooks of the ladder not reaching downward passed the ledge of the window I knew I would be unable to ascend it to help the victim down. I then explained to her that she needed to get on the ladder at that moment as the smoke conditions were getting worse. At that point I was unable to see her from the 24’ ladder. She began to descend the ladder and I assisted her in transferring to the extension ladder and down to the ground.
4) After removing her from the structure I made contact with my Lt. and we knew there was a bed confined occupant on the first floor. We retrieved a cot from an ambulance and went into the structure to remove her. She had no injuries but we had to place her in an ambulance away from the incident. When we loaded her into the ambulance, the victim from the window was requesting medical attention along with an occupant from the same room as her who had self extricated.
a) No other medics were readily available at that moment. I began assessing those two for smoke inhalation and other injuries. A parent showed up on scene at that time and stated she would take care of them and get them to the hospital if needed.
b) When I went to regroup with my crew I was met in the roadway by another occupant of the structure. She stated she was in the unit that was on fire and that she had attempted to put the fire out. Her pant leg was burned and she had 2nd degree burns on her left lower leg. She had heavy amounts of soot on her lips and tongue. I determined she needed emergent transport to the hospital at that time and told IC I would be taking another member with me to transport her.
c) This victim ended up being intubated in the ER and flown by helicopter to the nearest burn center.
d) After transporting her I returned to the scene to complete secondary searches with my crew and perform overhaul operations.
Grabs 139 Oklahoma City, OK (10/20/2023)
Grant and Nick Speak with the guys from Firemanship 2024
Major Brad Tobin
FF Jared Ward
2 Story Garden Apartment
Confirmed fire and trapped by dispatch
Callers gave apartment numbers
Big victims
250 Male
350 Woman in bathtub
Mega mover? Window Cut Down?
Grabs 138 Bowling Green, KY (3/4/2024)
Apartment Fire
2 victims
Expect victims
Search around victims for additional ones, especially children
Search off the hose line as making your way to the fire
If you’re the only crew on scene be flexible enough to complete multiple tasks at once.
Grabs 137 Longview, TX (Sept 2023)
Grant and Nick Speak with the guys from Firemanship 2024
BC Jon Eric Johnson
Driver Brad Conrado
FF Josh Mosley
430A
2 Story Multi-Unit Apartment
Multiple Victims Known before arrival
Ground Ladder Rescue-Told 2 more inside
Division Sup
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Grabs 136 Haltom City Fire, TX (12/4/2022)
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Grant speaks with Bryan about a fire they had on 12/4/2022
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3:54A
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First 2 crews were not used to working together. Arrive together.
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Small 1 story brick home 1000 SF
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Neighbors said someone was out.
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Fire showing outside of bedroom window
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Fire attack locates vict in wheelchair via tic.
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LT pealed off and removed victim. Tried using wheelchair, got caught on hose
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Bottleneck in hallway
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Zero viz down hallway by bedrooms
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Second victim found up against the door, moved vict to get door open
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Big victim. Head towards front door. Wrist drag with LT pushing, 1-2-3 pull 3-4’
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Slippery, narrow hall and dragging over fire hose.
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Pass victim off and finish
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Vict 1 <6 min, Vict 2 Found at 3 min and 2 min removal.
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Helmet Cam Discussion
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Grabs 135 Wadsworth, OH (May 13, 2024)
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Grant speaks with Danny Loparo about a grab they made on May 13, 2024.
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2 station combination department
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730 A-Call came in from elderly lady that said her O2 was on fire. Line went dead.
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55+ Community, 2 story town homes with 4 in a row
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Smoke showing from second floor
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First line in front, Ladders to rear
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Attack and VES arrived at victim same time, Doubled ladders (side by Side). Attack hands victim out and two person removal down ladder.
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5’5” 130 lbs, slippery, handed out head first.
Grabs 133 Aurora, IL (January 25 ,2020) Live from Firemanship
Matthew Acuff
2 story wood frame
3 kids out, parents missing
Light smoke no heat first floor
Head and no Viz Second floor
250 lbs 5'3"
Window Lift, Ladder Removal
2 Ladders
Grabs 132 Elyria, OH (April 9, 2023)
Grant speaks with FF Brian Abbott about a grab his crew made on April 9, 2023 in Elyria, OH
802A at shift change
On scene at 806 victim out 809
House fire with people trapped, fire showing upon arrival
2 units arrived simultaneously
Victim found on life fire layout replayed to truck to go get them
Smoke 3/4 way down
Person found in hospital drag, with dog in bed
Sheet drag, man fell through sheet
Wheelchair nearby-tried to put him in that and he fell out
Ended up doing a dirty wrist drag
Passed victim off, finished first floor (cluttered)
Went to second floor (zero viz)(Hoarder conditions)
Reports over radio of 2 kids missing and adult
High heat on second floor, flowing, belly search, swapped out due to low air,
Found deceased victim in fire room by another officer.
After the fact found out mom had left with kids the night before (domestic)
Grabs 131 St George Fire Dept, Louisiana (June 14, 2023)
Grant speaks with Lt Aaron Kowal about a grab that was made on June 14, 2023
LT Aaron Kowal
8A
4-plex with fire upon arrival
Zero viz, clutter
Oriented Search, Capt with TIC
Felt table/chair legs then kid
9 year old kid, agonal breaths, 80 lbs
Dirty drag, let Capt handle radio
Took kid 1/3 mile to EMS, then went back in to finish search
Occupy space
Time is more important than absolute thoroughness
TIC didn’t pick up victim because victim was behind a glass table turned over.
1 min arrival to door
2 min door to victim out
-
Date of incident: 1/26/2024 in Denver, CO
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First due Engine and medic crew married as one unit
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Fire attack and targeted search
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Big takeaways: practice like you play, don’t just get stuck in the rut of training one procedure at a time, but make it realistic. Always be ready. Get dialed with your crew. Get dialed with your neighboring districts, we’ve got several in our area.
ready to fill any role.
Grabs 127 Houbstadt, IN (October 30, 2023
Steve Buchta-Scott Twp Fire and EMS
3 stations staffing 9
Mutual Aid Call-Manpower for working house fire (to 100% volunteer Dept)
10 min response time
900 sq ft 1 story house heavily involved)
Appeared to be going defensive (master streams and ladder going)
IC wanted crew to be prepared to overhaul ops.
Crew was hit by ladder stream while staging on C side.
Crew was met by neighbor asked if occupant had gotten out. More information that he slept in basement. IC said no search had been done in basement yet.
Crew assigned search and defensive ops suspended.
Zero Viz in basement, some fire on first floor and roof coming in.
No radio communication with anyone else on scene or dispatch (different radio systems)
Narrow stairway and steep steps, 3-4” water in basement.
Split search-Voice contact
Victim in blanket on couch (appeared to be sheltering in place).
Webbing first attempt unsuccessful-went to dirty drag.
180-200 lbs
Narrow stairs-top guy bear hug and low guys pushed him up
Passed off victim-one round of CPR and pulse returned.
Grabs 125 Rossford, OH (Dec 15, 2023)
IMAT-Shared Chiefs across borders for big incidents
Multi-Family Structure Fire-Garden Style 3 story
Smoke showing
Barrett-Second arriving Chief, assigned safety
Person presented at balcony with smoke behind him.
24’ Ladder thrown to balcony (top of railing)
Should have told him to close the door to limit smoke (after thought).
Need a plan for balcony rescue (ladder lower)
Assisted with victim self rescue, talk with them on way down.
2 other victims rescued by other crews.
Importance of chief officers to be ready to fill any role.
Grabs 124 Blairsville Volunteer FD, PA (August 28, 2023)
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Grant speaks with Chief Zach Dixon and Captain Matthew Marron about a grab made on August 28, 2023
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12:04p
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Confirmed entrapment by dispatch
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6 unit apartment building
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Chief arrived in POV (neighboring district and assigned to search)
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Viz 1-2’ not hot
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350-400lbs slippery and found in bathtub in bathroom (phone on and glowing-open line)
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Chief found vict, called for help and RIT pack (unable to lift pt out by himself)
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25’ distance from vict to door
Grabs 123 Asheville, NC (November 3, 2023)
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Grant speaks with Captain Hayne Griffin about a grab they made on November 3, 2023.
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5:15A
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Residential fire, known address (Duplex), with potential victims (Dispatch info)
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BC first to arrive
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Heavy fire from attic and living space, bystander confirmed entrapment
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Hydrant in from of bldg
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Door open, unidirectional flow in, since it was vented already. Saw smoke lift.
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Shut line down early to help with search (Thermal inversion, glow)
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Victim (150lbs) face down in bathroom between tub and toilet.
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Crew yoked the vict real quick.
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Victim breathing outside and crew began to give aid, then passed off to another crew
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In and out in 60 seconds.
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Radio clicks
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Being familiar with your buildings
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Victim pt care after removal.
Show notes from Jason:
The One Man Show.
The 2 person engine.
Heavy fire main floor.
P.D. on scene reports single story with occupant trapped in bedroom.
Face To Face with husband who escaped with facial burns states wife is on second floor, through the fire room.
One man show inside.
Fire attack.
Search in hoarder conditions.
Victim removal.
Congested radio traffic.
Continued fire attack.
Master the basics to where you can perform the basics alone, instinctually.
Be prepared to do it yourself.
Learn, Learn, Learn.
Train, Train, Train.
Sets N Reps,
Sets N Reps,
Sets N Reps.
Link to local news article about the rescue and medal Jason got from his fellow firefighters
https://www.indianola-ia.com/news/firefighter-receives-medal-for-saving-woman-from-indianola-house-fire-last-fall/article_da40e3bc-0064-11ed-a44d-ef4936310b19.html
Grabs 121 Whitfield County Fire, GA (January 28, 2022)
LT Justin Hutcherson
Grant speaks with Justin about a grab they made on January 28, 2022.
13:40 structure with with victim trapped. Call made by victim who was trapped.
2 person engine (Engine 5-outlying station)
2 other closest rigs out of area training (alone for 15-20 min)
13:48 arrival
Trailer park, speed bumps and no hydrants
Single wide trailer, Kitchen fire, victim trapped on the floor
Kitchen window broke at arrival
Rescue mode upon arrival, 5-6 neighbors met rig upon arrival.
Lt made entry upon arrival while engineer donned pack, left door open
Called out for victim, victim answered allowing LT to go right to him.
Door closed and disoriented the Lt a little but bought time.
Dirty drag, under armpits, kept vict low to ground (Like a row), then bearhug.
350 lb vict, 15-20 feet from door
Engineer came in and helped at the door and got him to porch
Arrival to removal 3:17, Entry to removal 2:15
From porch to driveway used webbing.
Did pt care and then incoming units take care of the fire.
Dispatched at 0535 on December 10th, 2022.
Call reporting fully engulfed home- Unsure if anyone is home.
Initial report states the neighbor thinks the caller is not home as she was supposed to be staying at a local hotel for sons birthday party. First two
units arrive on scene and begin an attack and search. Basement door was found to be open and the basement searched first with nothing found. Search crew moved to 1st division through removal of a sliding glass door on C-side and extinguished additional fire. Line abandoned and search conducted of kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and finally the second bedroom. Victim found laying on the floor between the bed and wall with a window directly above her in moderate visibility. Bed moved onto its side to create space, window opened, victim moved to seated position and then hoisted to window sill where arms were handed out to exterior firefighters/awaiting crew at which time interior crews repositioned to victims legs and hoisted victim the rest of the way out the window. Tactical pause taken and primary search of bedroom completed. Victim removed 1:39 after being found. Victim survived with smoke inhalation and burns to left leg requiring multiple surgeries but expected to make full recovery.
Here is a link to the Youtube video showing images and audio.
https://youtu.be/9akiLSxEyx8?si=DFIMra9KC-Ne4o_E
Grabs 119 Portables Fire Department, NM (April 13, 2022)
Grant speaks with Zant Zomora about a grab his crew made on April 13, 2022.
Rural dept. 6-8 manning, 1 station.
Dispatched for house fire, while enroute updated victim inside.
Mobile home, fire from A-D side.
Winds at 38 MPH
FF on nozzle and LT searched
Heavy smoke, moderate heat
LT found vict while FF putting water on the fire.
Leg drag and other FF leads them out.
180 lbs approx.
Passed victim off
Grabs 118 Sac Metro, Ca (September 26, 2023)
Jason Baldwin (Engineer Paramedic)
Disp at 349 Commercial Structure (Multi Family)
Upon arrival disp advised possible person trapped.
2 story alcove apartment fire, fire showing first floor.
All in for search (split)
First two units checked (Relatively clear of smoke) then moved down to fire floor. Bad viz.
Vict behind closed door (Clear 12-15” at floor). Vict on bed (feet presented first)
Got vict to floor on back, leg drag 5’5” 120lbs) went out front door 10’
“Lead me out” when partners came to help.
On scene to vict out 7 min.
Grabs 117 Buckhannon Fire, West Virginia (November 27, 2021)
Captain Joey Baxa
6:57A-at shift change (extra people)
“Fully Involved” one block away from station-initial report
1/2 way to scene notified of “entrapment”
3 patients out and grandma in back bedroom first floor-EMS report
Split crew-search/attack
Initial deck gun then followed up with 2” line.
Heat spike until line came in and started flowing.
First floor clear, crew made way to second floor-radio from outside that someone came out a window onto porch roof.
Crew found conscious vict on porch roof.
Ground ladder-thrown got energized, bucket from ladder truck was as well.
Capt jumped into bucket, vict reached out and got shocked.
Assisted by other members had to bring vict through house.
Grabs 116 Cobb County, GA (July 26, 2023)
Kyle Williams
530 A
Confirmed 3 victims, multiple calls, Met by an occupant
Squad VES on Delta Side, Truck Assigned search, Engine Through A side.
First vict located in hallway, 14 y/o 100lbs, window removal, Passed victim off.
Squad found large victim in bathroom. 300 lbs, wet, high window, hoarder conditions.
3rd victim found and removed via window.
Grabs 115 Tamarac, FL (April 27, 2023)
Alex Seaman
Second fire of the shift
First shift as officer
3 story interior hallway apartment complex (Apt 202)
First engine investigates
Second engine water supply
3rd engine to first line based on coming in opposite of other units
Hallway smoke banked down to knee level
Metro load placed on small landing was a problem.
Victim located at kitchen when crew located fire.
Met up with another crew-split crew and removed victim.
Headfirst drag
Passed off victim
Disp-2317, Arriv-2323, 3rd 2326, Vict Located 2330, FO 2332, Vict out 2333
Grabs 114 Spartanburg, SC (July 24, 2022)
Capt Jared Van Ek
3:44 AM
2 miles from station
Residential House Fire (1200 SQFT)
Fire showing from AD Corner
Neighbor said if truck was there, occupant was home
2nd Due Engine-Assisted with Attack, Officer did 360, then once knock down, crew broke off to search.
Viz-at knee level
Vict on Floor of bedroom, head toward door. Not much room to work with, had to move vict over bed.
15’ to front door, additional crews arrived to assist.
Vict 5’9” 200lbs, clothed.
Grabs 113 Houston, TX (Jan 19, 2023)
Capt Paul Richardson
Near Grab with Lessons
2 story Apartments-Not much showing
Met in courtyard by neighbor reporting person trapped.
Told Crew where she sleeps
Heavy smoke visible now
Bystanders broke out window and started spraying water
Debris in window (VES not best option)
Search from front door
Went straight to bedroom where they were told vict was.
Heavy clutter, searched and couldn’t find victim
After second search in that room L4 found deceased victim in from room
Capt Paul Richardson
10-12 Blocks from station
Small 2 story garden style apartment
Smoke coming out of first floor end unit (small 2 bedroom apartments)
Ambulance reported person in the unit.
Searching from first due rig
Capt search ahead of line
Low viz, not hot
Cluttered conditions
Small vict on back under table
2 person drag out to front door
Disp to arrival 4 min, arrival to vict out 3-4 min.
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Grabs 111 Cadillac, MI (September 29, 2020)
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Dale Hall
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Limited Staffing
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Disp 925, Arrival 929 Vict Out 937
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Small House Fire
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Told by neighbor that it’s occupied
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12” visibility
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On floor supine
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150 lbs/Unconscious Man
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Once passed off vict went back in to finish.
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2 person drag to front door
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Searched off Hose
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Grabs 110 Wichita Fire, KS (May 3, 2023)
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Isaac Frazier
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R1 out of position in different zone
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Working House Fire with Fire Showing
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Initially told no one inside X 2
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Told by brother that someone is trapped in basement and on the phone
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OV’s make entry C-side
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Victim Removal-Protect In Place
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Look for items to shield victim/keep her low
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Use body of FF to shield victim upon removal
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Jeff Liscott and Greg Richards
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Fence around house hindered size up
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Met by lady stating there are kids inside. (2 y/o) Pointed to room
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Lots of debris in yard
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PD had tried to make entry via door and windows
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Left the line to search the room
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Found kids legs with flashlight-
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Found a second kid in the same room.
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Approximate time of arrival to vict removal-5 min.
Grabs 108 Klein Fire, TX (March 19 2023)
Gentry O’Connor
1 story residential
No reports of victims
From outside looked like abandoned home
D-18:37 A-18:41 Vict found 18:44 Out at 18:45
Zero viz
Heard victim yelling for help.
Skylights failed and conditions went from zero viz to heavy fire.
Vict found in kitchen
Single person drag
Difficulty finding exit that would work-tried to go out through garage-garage was still closed.
FF noticed power was still on and hit garage door button and it worked
Tripped over bricks on way out. Handed off victim and then went back in to be with nozzle FF.
Vict 220 lbs, FF Combat Challenge style drag
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Grabs 107 Springfield Twp Fire, Ohio (April 9, 2023)
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BC Andrew Sauder
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1p
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Apartment Fire-Came in as grease fire
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First Due BC
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Report of people trapped on Second FL
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Victs on A (Police report C also-False)
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T51-Ladder Rescue
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1 Engine on Attack, and 3 Engines assisting search.
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Grabs 106 Palm Beach County Fire, FL (March 9, 2023)
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District Chief Joe Bostic
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9:30A
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District Chief Covering for BC.
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Working fire, 1 occupant trapped.
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1 story residential
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Bystander dragging vict out the Charlie Side.
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Vict was laying within 4 feet of door.
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Vict said mom was still in house.
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1st due targeted search, 2nd due fire attack
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Couldn’t make access to CD bedroom
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L57 finds a 3rd vict
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Resource limited, Safety officer assigned to make the rescue the mom.
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2 lived/1 passed away
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949 Arrival, 950-Vict 1, 952-Vict 2, 959 Third Vict
Everett (WA) Fire Department was dispatched to a "residential fire" initially, although it was quickly upgraded to a "working fire". Upon arrival, there were reports of one wheelchair-bound occupant still trapped. The engine pulled a line, and the ladder was initially tasked with VES/window-initiated search. After talking with another resident, the ladder company decided to make entrance to the Charlie-side door. They found and removed a victim in the hallway, then began treating the unconscious victim outside. After an ambulance crew took over pt care, the ladder crew went back in to finish the search and ran into the engine crew removing a second victim. The second victim was removed, and crews began CPR. In the end, three victims were transported, and as of last known information, all three were still alive.
Grabs 104 West Metro, Co (April 13, 2019)
Single wide trailer
Reports of people trapped.
VES in the window that had no fire showing
Tall window, halligan sunk in mud
Attic Ladder to make entry
Zero viz, not super hot
Felt Rib cage, vict wedged under bed.
Unable to isolate the room due to no door.
Vict was slippery, called for extra help
Passed victim out the window to the Captain on the ladder.
Stuff got hung on ladder (her shirt, TIC lanyard).
Cyanokit used
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Grabs 103 Bargersville FD, Indiana. (May 11, 1998)
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Dale Saucier
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3 part time firefighters on and backed up by volunteers
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530A, house fire with multiple entrapments.
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6 min response, chief had arrived
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1 story house, about 1000 SQ ft
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Converted attic with ladder to it (smoke showing)
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Stretched a line, while searching
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No smoke of heat inside.
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Narrow stairs to attic (fire at ceiling)
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Fire knocked down with 50 gal of water,
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As hose got pushed up, helmet and hood got knocked off, Dale bailed from attic and back step went up while he fixed his PPE.
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Portable radio never got turned on.
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Crib, lots of stuffed animals, checked again and found a baby.
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Truck crew brought the second child out.
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Both kids passed away from burns and smoke.
Grant speaks with Austin Blake from Oklahoma City Fire about a grab his crew made on Dec 27, 2022
Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more
Grabs 101 Mooresville, NC (January 11, 2022)
Danny Beauvais
Mooresville Fire, NC
1 Story House fire, unknown if anyone is inside
Blue Card
Long lay for hydrant, Front Yard Clutter
Victim right at the door 2’, Saw them under smoke
Unconscious, Heavy victim 240 Plus
Victim out in under 5 min from the start of search.
Grabs 100 Toledo, Oh (Oct 24, 2004)
Scott Hathaway
Norwich Apartments
End unit fire
Reported kids trapped
2 kids pulled out by attack
4 kids pulled out by S7
1 baby pulled out by E9
7 killed under 7
Less than 5 min after arrival of Squad
Kids huddle together
Rendering EMS in one area with limited resources
Importance of mental health and following up on crews
Grabs 99 Louden County Fire Rescue, Va (March 17, 2022)
Dan Turner
Townhouse, Kitchen Fire, Smoke Showing Reports of people trapped.
High Heat, Low Viz
Dad tried to run back in (for son that was not home)
Bucket Rescue-FF Air Emergency then 14 y/o F
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Grabs 98 Anonymous (July 6, 2019)
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SE Urban Dept
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Apartment Fire 2:15A
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Reports of Victims-Protect In Place
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No reports of victims in fire apartment (5 kids)
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Officer Leads
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Wait to Knockdown fire-Use glow to help
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Listen for victims
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Engine search while waiting for additional search crews.
Combination Dept
Apartment Complex-Garden Style 4 units 2 story
Chief forced door prior to arrival of crews, heavy smoke and heavy content
Viz-1-2’, could see glow of fire, not much heat
Water on fire quickly
VES c-side (second unit in)-Room cleared quickly
Engine crew located with a tic
Victim on side near futon, no clothes, couldn’t grab legs due to clutter-Arm drag far enough to have second FF grab legs, moved him down the stairs
Victim was close to fire, Slippery 10-12’ to exit
12-13 min to victim out
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Ben Burkett
-
1815 Multi-Family (2 double wide trailers made into 4 apartments)
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Multiple calls and reports of people trapped
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2 units assigned search
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1 story, fire showing from kitchen window on D side.
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Smoke down to knee height
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Once fire knocked down zero viz
-
Felt pile of clothes “Search with hands”, found an arm
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Victim-Face down, Rolled him over, 150-170lbs
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Grab-Combat challenge drag, second rescuer came to get legs
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Passed victim to EMS and went back in to search.
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Time-3 min
-
Leo Rojas talks with Grant about a grab his crew made on 7/31/21
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4:48A
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2-3 blocks from station
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4th fl apartment
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Larger pt-Slippery
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Quick grab and crew had to transport
South Metro Fire Rescue, Colorado
4/9/2021
John Spera
845P 1/2 mile from station
<6 min from on scene to transport
No reports
300 lb victim on carpet-difficulty moving
20 ft from front door
Hoarder vs Heavy Content
The call came out as a structure fire a little before 5 am March 18, 2022 in our first due. With the possibility of a two year old still entrapped. The structure was an apartment building in a complex that has a garden style lay out. The building was a 2 story with a subdivision floor. That has a total of 12 apartments inside the building. Dispatch gave us the wrong apartment number as apt 6 not 56. We had nothing showing but had residents outside. I was met by the mother and father saying their “baby” was still inside. I asked location and if the child was in a crib,bed, or what. Myself and my lieutenant made entry without a hose line and did a split search of the fire room. Conditions were floor to ceiling smoke with zero visibility, no fire at the time of entry. The two year old was located unresponsive but breathing, through smoke and clutter within 1-2 ish minutes. Time of dispatch to child being in EMS care was around eight minutes.
Brewer Widner
Decatur Fire
June 21, 2022 20:00
1 story residential with fire showing from A side
Subdivided House
KC Drag Strap
Window Removal
4 minutes from arrival to victim out
Name of guy you are interviewing - Anonymous
FD he/she works for - Anonymous
Date of grab - May 2018
5 bulletpoints to be included in the show notes
-
3 alarm fire
-
4 story MFD (center hall)
-
Victim found by the elevator
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Difficult ladder transition
-
Had another fire with "entrapment" directly following this fire...importance of bystander interview
Smith County ESD 2 - TX
Lt Daniel McConnell
5/18/2022
Engine grab
Non-isolatable window search grab
Initially the IC called off the window search
Thanks to Jon Quon (and crew) from Tacoma (WA) FD. Jon does a great job painting a picture of this rescue (two blocks from his station, 6-story MFD, smoke-drunk victim, etc.) and attached is a link to see the actual apartment building where the fire happened.
Jon and Company also set a new land speed record for grabbing their gear, making the sixth floor, and performing a search and subsequent rescue with a time of 4-minutes. https://www.apartments.com/vintage-apartments-tacoma-wa/xrl20cn/
Thanks to Josh Baltz (and crew) from Wilmington (NC) FD, Josh does a great job painting a picture of this rescue (mutual aid fire, heavy fire in the garage and FROG, differently abled victim, difficult removal, etc.)
(406) A WFD RECAP: WFD and NHCFR Save Man - YouTube
Chris Ciaccio
Commack FD, NY
4/2022
Volunteer Department
Chris arrived first due as Chief Officer
2 Victs presenting at windows (different windows)
Hoarder conditions
Tayrn Rooney
Oklahoma City Fire
December 4 2021
One story 800 Sq Ft Ranch
Fire from AB and D
Rescue from C side
175 lb victim, slippery
2:50 from dispatch to find victim
:15 sec to find victim from entry
Grabs 84
Toledo, OH
BC Robert Krause
BC 1 arrives first on scene with heavy fire and multiple people hanging from windows/porch.
Chief talks about IC priorities and when to direct crews for the grab and when to go for it.
Bonus-Radio traffic at the end
3/24/2022 12:30P
Oklahoma City Fire, OK
Dylan Murray (L7)
12-13 blocks away from station. Arrived with E23.
Good intel on residence on way from crew that had been there on medicals.
Met by 1 occupant stating one victim inside
Targeted search for vict and removed using mattress topper. Passed off victim.
Finished search, found second victim. Heard them.
Both victims out in less than 5 minutes.
Good teamwork by all involved, passing victims off.
Justin speaks with Bryce Cambell from Byran, TX about a grab that was made on 1/4/2022.
Justin speaks with Ben Holton from Atlanta Fire about a triple grab that was made on 1/3/2022.
Dustin Bray
New Brawnfels, TX
7/21/21
Coming off a medical call
Smoke from the eves and a garage door open
Rescue mode, engineer pull the line
FF went in first and found victim on belly 6-8’ in door.
Larger victim 350lbs
Victim fights rescuers initially then goes unconscious
Head first drag out the front door
Quick garage knock, then victim went cardiac arrest.
Dispatched 16:24 victim out 16:31
Cyano kit administered
76-Seth Major
9/9/2016
West Metro, CO
Confirmed fire with people trapped
5 y/o F
T8 four man rig
Split level house with fire showing
Mother tells fist due where daughter is at
Family trying to get to kid, dad in lawn suffering from smoke inhalation.
2.5 line deployed for fire attack by E10
Could hear girl crying and screaming upon entry.
Extremely hot fire due to window and slider failing
Tic Whited out
Found girl hiding in closet
Talking to girl to have her come to them and find his flashlight
Situational awareness once finding victim
FF lead the officer and victim out
Cyanokit ready to go
Anonymous
October 2021
Volunteer short staffed department
Credible reports of people trapped
Initial Responding unit had a Chief and a Cadet, next in only had a firefighter and a cadet.
Adam Ryan
10/28/2021
Christiana Delaware
Dispatched as confirmed entrapment
Shift change fire 0709
Hydrant out front/corner lot
1 story from front two story from back
Fire showing front door/front Living room
OV took, ladder, hook and halligan (Riding Assignments) to Charlie Side
Homeowner states wife inside and points to window
C side report, VES 2nd floor window
Windows small 4-5’ off ground
Bedroom door open, met up with crew from inside-gave them directions, closed the door and searched the room.
Found victim on bed
Combat challenge style drag, additional help came.
Victim brought out with assistance of Mike Pressler.
Arrival to removal 4 minutes
75-Dustin Simmons
11/9/2017
Florence, AL
5 stations
2E, 1TK, 1 Rescue and BC on regular alarm
3p house fire, no reports of victim
Split search bedrooms based on layout
Addition off the kitchen
At bottom of 3 stairs
FF was walking and fell on victim
Half naked victim 180lbs slippery- 3 FF to remove
Bad visibility throughout house except in addition
5 minutes to remove victim from arrival
Passed off victim to EMS and finished search
74-Noah Ayers
Almaville, TN
1/2/2021
6 on initial response (Rescue Engine)
Three rigs arrived on scene together
Good header 5 miles out, report of people trapped.
EMS and bystanders reported victim in AD corner
VES in last known location
Shift Commander First in window rig arrived, came out with a burn to ear.
Bedroom door not intact, zero viz and hot-unable to isolate.
Second search of that room-negative
Third time in, knocked fire and searched beyond door.
Victim found in bathroom of adjacent bedroom.
4 min from arrival to finding victim.
73-Tyler Williamson
Sacramento Metro, CA
7/2/2021
Not normal crew
Good intel on way to fire using phones and pulse point
Split level SFR
4th in engine but all arriving together
Told by neighbor someone still might be in house. Pointed out in house where they might be.
Heavy Fire and Smoke
Front door clogged up with people, made alternate entry-VES Delta Side Window
Conditions changed one door closed.
Thought victim was a pile of clothes initially.
Radio problem-went back to face to face to get help
71-Anonymous
4/17/2021
Frequent flier complex
3A commercial Fire Alarm-Upgraded while en route
Light smoke in hallway
Apartment Fire-Heavy Smoke No Heat
Victim Found face down in living room
120lbs
Carried her over shoulder
No one heard victim found on radio
Stay Low
Disp-2:48, OS-2:53 Removal 3:00
70-Adam Levesque
Westbrook Fire Rescue, Maine
4/10/2021
23:00 hours
Dispatched as fire with people trapped, no units avail, quick mutual aid
Smoke showing and reports of multiple people trapped.
1.5 story wood frame SFR
Basement fire
No working smoke detectors
VES
1-2 viz
Victim found in bed, semi conscious, went unconscious
Two ladder victim removal
69-Isaiah Hoeppner
LeDuc Fire Alberta, Canada
May 7, 2021
Busy day on Medic, Beat Engine Out the door
2500 SQFT 2 Story SFR
Working Fire
Neighbor called, no additional info
Vinyl Siding
Assisted Engine
Saw someone on 2nd floor window and another on roof
24’ ground ladder rescue
Victim Prioritization
1st victim said no one else was there
68-Austin Beier
Wadena, MN
April 7, 2021
9:45 PM
Confirmed Entrapment
Come off the rig masked up
Second floor fire (same room as victim found)
2 story house
VES Entry, 2 others already in room via front door (ladder thrown by occupants)
6-8” viz
1 year old girl between bed and wall wedged, just hand on bed.
Sweeping with hands, not tools.
Victim handed off
https://www.facebook.com/matt.henson.5/videos/10100268602546745
https://www.facebook.com/donate/195889062107718/
67-Brian Peterson
Hillsborough County, FL
September 15, 2011
101 Foxwood
Told Everyone was out
Attack found first kid
Truck found second kid
Use clues in room (Food two race car beds)
Twin 2 year olds
40 lbs quick grab <30 sec
Search anyway, no matter what you’re told
66-Noah Jenkins and Brady Fink
Capital City Fire (Juneau, AK)
Sept 17, 2017
4AM
Caller confirmed still inside, multiple victims and reports of jumpers
Large house divided into 3 apartments (3 Story)
Very limited manpower
Victim Prioritization
One victim on roof
2.5” Line
Engine based search
Large male victim
Prussik feet first drag
Spiral Staircase
Used carryall tarp to get victim down staircase
Went back in for third victim-DIrty drag down the stairs.
CPR on victims and transport took a lot of manpower
Engineer threw ladders for victim on roof after getting crews water.
Double ladders-Porch and then off porch
Victim Removal-7 min, 10 min and 13 min
65-Jeremie Herbert
Memphis Fire
April 21, 2021
1 story frame-well involved
Heard victim calling from window
Window grab
Head and ears paying attention
Transition from one assignment to make rescue.
Go in from known location rather than front door.
Under 2 minutes
Bonus Grab: January 2021
2 story apartment fire
Light smoke, blacked out windows
Kitchen fire
Found 1 adult male, larger, burns
Extremity drag, slippery
Other units brought out 1 infant and 2 kids from same apartment.
64-Tuker Payment
Clearview Fire and Emergency Services (Canada)
July 14, 2017
Rural Paid on Call Department
EMS arrived on scene immediately
2 Story Farmhouse with Child trapped
High Heat and No Visibility
Bunk Beds
3.5min from arrival to victim out
Child did not survive
Boise Fire TK7
January 15, 2021
Severe Hoarding
One Story Working Fire
PD removed one victim prior
3:52 FD arrival
3:53-Second Engine and Truck Arrive
3:57-Assigned Search
4:09-Victim removed
Smoke ceiling to floor
Located with TIC
250-300 lb victim (hair kept getting caught on things)
Moving clutter to make room for victim
Pass off the victim
61-Shawn Anastasia
Lake Mary FD, FL
October 2, 2019
1:03 A Dispatch, 1:09 A Arrival
Apartment Fire (2 story with a loft)
Light haze and odor upon arrival
Kitchen fire-life fire layout, door control
Heat and smoke went up to loft area
Engine stretch, rescue on search
Search with hands not tool
Victim found in bathroom 1:14 A
Heavy, Naked victim, slippery
2 person drag, hands and feet 20’-30’
Passed off victim and completed search
People Mover to get victim down the stairs.
Cynokit
60-Jacob Johnson
Pearland FD, TX
Nov 17, 2007
6:15 AM
Column Showing-2 story
Reading Windows
Confirmed Entrapment
Zero Visibility
Large victim, face down
Difficulty Dragging Victim-lifting over step
Communication problems
Using body to shield victim from fire
Handed off first victim and completed search (Falsely reported a second victim)
6-7 min arrival to victim out
59-Neil Graham
Fort Myers, FL
2018
No info via 911, on arrival told mom was inside
Engine Based Search
4 man engine-officer went ahead of the line
Well trained crew and dialed in with skills
Quick Grab <3 min
Head first drag
Neil-(239) 292-2124
58-Neil Graham
Fort Myers, FL
Jan 2005
On way to medical and diverted. Dress on the way.
2 bedroom small house (under 1000SF)
Kitchen Fire
Cops inside trying to help (they find one baby)
Lots of clothes and clutter (hiding victim)
Multiple Victims-Kid under the mom
Took kid first and came back for mom
Take out the easiest grab first (take the sure thing)
Pass the victim off if you can. Search team finishes search if possible
Search with your hands
<5 min until victim out
**To record a Grabs Podcast text Grant at 239-898-0843 or
grantschwalbe@gmail.com**
January 28, 2021
BC Curt Isakson, LT Daniel Mills, FF Jeff Fangman (L12)
955 Disp, 1002 Vict Found, 1004 Victim out
1st 2 rigs out training
Quick Arrival, Fire Showing
L12 assigned VES
Tall Windows, Cluttered Room, Door blocked
*Come off mask up if you’re assigned search and go right to work.
*Send a line to VES points to protect FF’s if needed. Especially if you’re down wind from the fire.
56-Anonymous FD, IN
Steve
Jan 19, 2013
3 blocks from station
Hoarding conditions
Nothing/Light smoke showing
Zero viz inside
Confirmed victim inside-son said one of 2 rooms.
She moaned when touched.
300 lb victim
Slippery
Difficult removal
Girth hitch with webbing
7 min to locate victim, 1 min to extricate
55-Bill Kennedy
12/25/2020
Richton Park FD, Illinois
Single Family Home with smoke showing
PD and bystanders report victim inside sub grade
VES
Daughter (Walking) and Mother Bed ridden
Both Victims Large
Use of additional companies and stokes basket.
54-Nathan Hofford
Sacramento Metro Fire
Dec 26, 2020
1 story single family home 1200’
Known Victim BC Bedroom
Hindered access alpha side
VES
Brittle Glass-Room lit off after taking window-Knocked down quickly with hose line.
Lots of clutter
Victim could be heard
Tight path for victim removal
53-Jason Joannides
South Carolina
Dec 2013
Inaction from first arriving companies
2 story townhouse
Christmas Tree Fire
Dad makes it to kids room-overcome by smoke falls out window
18 month old and 5 year old
Be aggressive
52-Bristol, NH
August 15, 2020
George Clayman
Chris Dolloff
Limited Staffing
12’ by 50’ Mobile Home
Victim Reported by Neighbor
Victim found on bed
Slippery-No clothes
Easy to loose awareness during victim removal
Looking for second victim (That wasn’t inside)
Chief Car set up for worst case scenario-to go in.
51-Sarasota County, FL
12/26/2020
Chuck Reynolds
Mid-Afternoon Fire
Confirmed victim in upstairs bedroom
VES
Patio with doors to bedroom
110 lbs victim
Dual Ground Ladders-Removal
Guests: Lt. Brian Gregory, Driver Hank Tiller, and Firefighter Clint Carey
Date of rescue: 5.23.20
Dept: NE Georgia FD (metro Atlanta)...guys wish to keep the dept anonymous
Single family dwelling (split entry/bi-level)
Attempted VES
Barricaded civilian
December 9th, 2020
New Tazewell, TN (South Claiborne Vol FD)
Chris, Nicole and son Eli (7 years old)
https://www.kimt.com/content/national/573485772.html
https://www.gofundme.com/f/nicole-davidson-house-fire-december-9th-2020
https://forthemstore.com/product/eli-fundraiser-decals/
12/5/2020
Easton, Pa
Doug Cochran
Came in as AFA (Multiple Heat detectorsO
No additional calls, no reports of people inside
Screen door and deadbolt locked
Conditions/Heat/Visability got worse once after water was applied (exterior)
Leg drag (120lbs)
Passed off victim to complete search
Searching with hands, not a tool
Cody Gillies
New rig (with clean cab) If it happens practice it.
Multiple Ignition Points
Hoarder Conditions
Clothes ripped off
Victim was hanging (attempted suicide)
Tom Johnson
East Metro (CO) Fire Department
10/29/2020
Apartment complex (center hallway)
Jumpers
Multiple rescues (one primarily discussed in this episode)
Fitness and skill levels were off the charts of the firefighters involved
Links:
Fit to Fight Fire website
https://fittofightfire.com/
Fit to Fight Fire Podcast Episode 64 - Your Finest Hour, a roundtable discussion with Tom Johnson, Dan DeJesus, Jack Thompson, and Hunter Hackbarth of this same rescue from multiple different perspectives
https://fittofightfire.com/2020/11/26/episode-064-your-finest-hour/
Keith Chapman, Escambia County, FL (Panhandle)
Post Hurricane Conditions-East Lake FD assisting as Strike Team Engine.
1200 Sq ft house
Heavy Smoke and Fire Showing, Door Open, Occupant still on phone with 911
Quick out the door time-Pulse point as the cheat
Fire on the Stove, Semi Hoarding Conditions
Being able to search ahead of the attack line (2 engines arrived together).
Officer leads the way out but cut off from fire-window removal.
August 2017
3 Story Apartment Building Fire
Searching ahead of the hose for visibility.
Searching with a can
Listen for victim coughing
Dragging without being able to duckwalk (heat-stay low)
Passing off a victim
Knowing the layouts of your buildings. Undress it from the outside.
September 13, 2020
Post removal care-consider Hydrogen Cyanide Poisoning,
Sodium Disulfate
LODD-Richard Sheltra (April 30, 2016). Edwin Watts Golf Store Fire
www.firesmoke.org (Fire Smoke Coalition)
Mike Gerin 980-333-3446
MGerin@pinevillenc.gov
January 1, 2018
5 Story Senior Apartment Complex
Came in as Automatic Alarm
Nothing Showing Upon Arrival…don’t be complacent
2 minute response time
Be familiar with all riding assignments
Be good with the basics (like making up). It will allow you to buy back time for mistakes or hiccups.
Get low don’t stand
Shut up and listen….Gary heard coughing
Assisting a victim out.
Time from arrival to victim out was 2 minutes
Belleville, IL 8/23/2020
This story highlights the importance of knowing your first due, coordination between the triangle offense (search, attack, and vent), and closed doors buying time for victims.
Porter Fire Department, Texas 6/28/2018
JD Fisher (Lt)
Apartment Fire 2 story (first floor garage)
800 SF Apartment
2 different departments (Auto Aid) Communication problems on radio and inside.
2 on FA, 2 on Search Split apartment
Zero Visabiity, No heat
Oriented Search
Walked into Victim in main area of apartment after searching bedrooms (line stretched over victim)
350 lbs victim
Slick-Hard to Grip, Minimal Clothing
Head first drag
4 minutes to find her and 4 minutes from finding her to removal
Savanna, Ga 12/15/2019
Acting Officer and Acting Engineer
Heavy Fire on Alpha Side
Wires Down
Victims Reported on Dispatch and Bystanders
Heard Victim
Heavy Content
Head First Removal
6 minute Removal
Multiple Victims
Highlights:
Delayed backup-Functioning on scene by themselves for a while.
Dispatched as trapped victims, on scene reports were vacant
Hasty Engine based search
Searching behind doors
Get low-Life Fire and Layout
Highlights:
Initial reports of victim trapped on Floor 2, confirmed by bystanders.
Hoarder Conditions
Searching with hands not tools
Handing off the victim and finishing the search.
Victim removal 3:20 after arrival.
Highlights:
Single unit response to automatic fire alarm.
Engine company grab considerations,
Different entry points-doors open to different parts of the house.
Girth hitch with webbing for removal.
Time from arrival to en route to hospital 7 min.
Highlights:
2 in 2 out discussion
What to do while you wait-counting doors getting a look.
Finishing the search if the grab is easy or you can pass off the victim.
Grant Schwalbe 239-898-0843
Grantschwalbe@gmail.com
Justin McWilliams 503-729-2734
Nick Ledin
Nledin@hotmail.com
Grant talks with Eric Wheaton about a grab made by his crew in Winter Park, FL on 6/8/2012
Nick speaks with Ryan Fitzgerald about a VES grab he made with his crew in Mankato, MN.
Grant talks with Bryce Beverage about a grab his crew made on Dec 30, 2017 in Sacramento, Ca. (Sacramento Metro Fire District)
Justin speaks with James Barlow and Greg Chappell about a grab made in Clinton MS Feb 4, 2019. This is a unique interview because you get two perspectives.
Grant speaks with Scott Ketchum from Winter Park, FL about a fatal fire that occurred in Feb 2018. While the Grab wasn’t able to be made in this case, there are always lessons to learn.
Justin speaks with Josh Parrow about a grab made in Inver Grove Heights, MN on Feb 24, 2018.
Grant speaks with Andrew Sauder about a grab made in Springfield Twp (Lucas County) Ohio
Nick speaks with BC Scott Blanchard (Venice [FL] Fire Department). Chief paints a colorful picture of their double grab, an 81 year old and a 9 month old.
Justin speaks with Dustin Sinclair about a grab made in the rural department of Erin, Tennessee.
Grant speaks with Josh Scott of Sault Ste. Marie Canada about a Grab they has in June of 2019.
Nick Ledin talks with Dave Werner about a grab made in Duluth, MN on February 14, 2017.
Grant Schwalbe speaks with Captain Danny Dwyer about a grab made in Atlanta, Ga in 2019
Grant speaks with Rodney Hewitt Jr from Snohomish County WA about a grab made on April 19, 2020
https://www.heraldnet.com/news/girl-hiding-in-toy-trunk-rescued-from-monroe-house-fire/
Justin McWilliams speaks with Nate Rank from South Metro, MN about a grab they made in 2017
Grabs 10 Alex Smith Hickory Fire Department (North Carolina) joins Grant to talk about a grab made on July 16, 2017.
Justin McWilliams talks with Hale Fitzgerald from South Portland about a grab on October 31, 2018.
Grant is joined by David Mellen to talk about a victim grab in 2014 in the small town of Tonganoxie, KS.
Grant gets the rundown from Captain DJ Stone on a VES rescue in Fort Walton Beach, FL..
Grant and Justin discuss a grab of a young man by Justin’s rescue company in Clackamas, OR.