While we worked on two important skills last night, I've already covered Tactical Ventilation in a previous post. For now, let's focus on Forcible Entry.
Forcible Entry is critical on the fireground. Plainly put we can't perform a search and rescue or as one of my wise instructors says, "put the wet stuff on the red stuff," if we can't get into the building.
It's all about PHYSICS: Most forcible entry tools work on the principle of leverage. A tool has an input force (the firefighter) and an output force, the work that needs to be done. The mechanical advantage comes with a fulcrum, a pivot point in between the forces.
Common Forcible Entry Tools- A set of irons-Halligan and a Flat Head Axe. The Halligan is used for prying and the axe is the striking tool.
Parts of an axe: the handle and the head (used for striking the Halligan and maintaining space between the door and the frame during prying)
Parts of a Halligan: Pick, Adz, Shaft, Fork Shoulder, Set Line, Gap Line, Fork and Crotch of the Fork.
Things to consider/Key Take Aways: (Let's assume you tried to force the lock)
Do you have the right tools?
Do you need one or two firefighters?
Attacks should be coordinated-(hoseline, ventilation teams) Remember control that flow path.
Always try before you pry.
What is the material of the door? Steel versus wood. It makes a difference. A "rabbit tool" is best used on a steel door, it would shred a wood frame.
Where are the hinges? If you can see them, the door swings outward. If you can't see them its inward.
Is it left or right swinging?
Force the Entry-Key Words to use, HIT, DRIVE and STOP.
Take a knee, control the door when its opened. Closing it means you may have to start all over again. Slows down the operation, limits time to save lives.
Check for Life, Layout and Fire. Oh, and Don't forget GRANDMA Jones. (Inside joke)
Special thanks to instructors Miller and Kinash this was amazing. Photo creds to Instructor Lewis. (at least it's not a meme).
Saturday: Advancing Hose line. YAY!
The things that make this girl happy!
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