Stuck in Bed?

Thanks to Tim Aungst of Howard County Fire/Rescue Station 10 for this…

KEYCHAIN CARABINERS 

 Meant for your car keys, not your turnout gear.

I’ve seen many firefighters throughout the years using the infamous .99 cent keychain carabiner to hold various items on their turnout jackets. These carabiners use little force to open the latch and self close quite easy. Usually firefighters have them attached to their chest usually off of the D-ring near their radio pocket. Others have been seen attached to the waste strap of their SCBA’s to hold tools or bailout bags. BAD NEWS!  These keychains can attach itself to many obstacles.

THE STORY…

 I have seen what could happen with these keychains. Years ago, a firefighter was searching a bedroom that had been used in a live burn. A partially burned out mattress was located in the room with the springs and wiring exposed. As the firefighter crawled partially on top of the mattress to perform an arm sweep, he noticed his chest was now attached to the bed. The keychain carabiner opened up and closed after latching onto a mattress spring. Thankfully this occured during a drill where the fire was being controlled in another room. Due to the close proximitry of the carabiner and mattress, it was difficult to cut away and was time consuming. Once again, thankfully this occured in a controlled enviroment and didn’t contribute to an injury or death.

ITS AN EASY FIX 

If your set up involves one of these carabiners, invest in a locking carabiner with a screwgate instead and kindly return your keychain where it belongs….. with your keys!  Keep your receipt and claim it on your tax return next year, its a win win situation and worth the extra $10.00.    Be safe!

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