Simply click the 'Reload' button. Structural collapses during fires usually occur without direct warning, and often result in fatal or disabling injuries to fire fighters. However, with tactical lanning, fire departments can anticipate such emergencies and save fire fighters lives. Fire departments should ensure that risks for structural collapses are strategically assessed at fires, that good communications are maintained between crews inside and outside of burning buildings, and that emergency rescue preparations are in place. The Alert is the first report by any federal agency to focus specifically on preventing fire fighter deaths and injuries from structural collapses.
Structural collapses can be difficult to predict and often result in multiple fatalities.
The commander maintains accountability for all fire personnel at the scene, so that individuals locations are known. At least four fire fighters with full protective equipment are on the scene before anyone enters the burning structure. Teams inside and outside should be in communication. A specialized standby team is in position to rescue fire fighters in the building if an emergency arises. Fire fighters entering the burning building are equipped for two-way communications with the command team.