Child Gates… Looks are deceiving!
Just a couple of weeks ago a question was raised about the removal of child gates. This was during a discussion on
the tailboard after a nice first due job. At the fire building there were two windows on the first floor (where the initial push was being made) that had a horizontal set of metal bars screwed into the wooden window frame. ” Child Gates “
These easily removed yet somewhat intimidating contraptions can disappear quickly with the right technique.
If not removed, it can make a hasty exit, time consuming and panic stricken!
Nine times out of ten these gates (not to be confused with BARS!) are self installed and are nailed or screwed into the window frame. These gates are not “BARS” as they are not meant to keep people out. They’re meant to keep children in.
Inserting a halligan or better yet, steel hook into the center. (blue line) Then forcefully moving side to side. (red line) This action will force the screws/nails out. This applies to removing them from the room side also. Trying to drive out or pull the gates will only bend and hinder the removal.
Again, this is by no means high security or hard to execute. These Gates are rather a hindrance if not dealt with correctly! In most cases a good truck company or proactive RIT team can have these off in seconds. Be safe and work smarter not harder…
No related posts.
Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.
Upcoming Classes
- Sat 9/18/2010: Officer Development School (OPEN)
- Sat 10/9/2010: Engine Company Operations