Multiple Options are Key in Forcible Entry
Like many firefighters, I have witnessed someone at the door to the fire building repeatedly trying the same technique over and over with no success. This is frustrating because, with the exception of some public service calls, we were not called to force the door but rather to handle the fire (or other emergency) on the other side of it. All firefighters, regardless of position or assignment must maintain good forcible entry skills, because we can’t do our job until we get inside the door.
Over the years, forcible entry has become a speficic interest of mine. I have had many great mentors on the topic and my own share of fireground screw ups, all of which taught me one very important fact about forcing doors of any kind: YOU MUST HAVE MULTIPLE TECHNIQUES FOR WHEN PLAN “A” FAILS.
As an example, last month Danny Doyle and I were just outside Austin, TX working with the Round Rock Fire Department on truck company operations for the week. Of course one of the skills was forcible entry. Using their department’s door prop, each student forced the door numerous times. Now each student forced the same door prop, which used the same stock of material, and forced it using the same approach. Below is a picture of some of the metal “locks” that they forced. What do you notice? THEY ARE ALL DEFORMED DIFFERENTLY.
Know how you know how the door will respond? AFTER YOU'RE DONE.
It goes to show the point that 2 doors, made by the same company, installed by the same person on the same day, and locked in the same manner, will likely respond differently even when attacked with the same series of techniques. This is just due to subtle variations in angle/placement of attack, force delivered, and probably the inherent slight variations in a piece of metal.
The take home here is that you can’t just have plan A, or just plan A & B. You have to have C,D,E,F,G,H,I, et cetera. Because when YOU’RE the one between the fire and the rest of the box alarm, ALL EYES ARE ON YOU and everyone is WAITING FOR YOU – it’s probably the most stressful spot on the fireground. It means we have to expect the unexpected – we have to be able to recognize when what we are doing is not working, and have another step to move onto.
In our classes we teach “troubleshooting forcible entry”. This video is a brief demonstration of one of the students forcing a troublesome door and working through a variety of steps in order to get the door in a pretty quick timeframe. As a disclaimer, it it not an inclusive discussion of all the skill points and tips for an inward door. I always say that there is a list of techniques and a list of tools, all possibilities to get us through the door. The kicker is that the list is CONSTANTLY RE-ORDERED at each fire based on asking yourself:
- What tools do I have available?
- What manpower do I have available?
- What I have I already tried?
The results of thinking those questions may take what was previously #22 on your list of preferences and move it to #1 for this fire, because for instance you are by yourself and only have a Halligan bar.
Remember forcible entry is NOT AT ALL about force, it’s all about technique.
If you’d like to break some doors, we have a combination Truck Company Ops and Forcible Entry Academy class coming up in Bensalem, PA in August. Click here for information and registration. Or we’d be happy to come to you, just email us.
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Posted by | Posted in Blog, Combat Ready, Tips & Skills, Truck Company | Posted on 04-05-2011
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Video Tip: Cutting the Adams-Rite Lock
We’ve done a bunch of talking about the Adams-Rite lock and forcing entry to storefronts, partly because it’s a forcible entry challenged found almost anywhere and everywhere. Like all things firefighting, the key to success is having not just “Plan A” – but multiple plans. Depending on your scenario, one may be preferable than another at one fire and less preferable at the next.
Once option for forcing entry at these fires is of course to cut the throw of the lock. Check out this quick video tip:
- What is your “go to” technique for these doors? Why?
- What circumstances would cause you to move this cutting technique to the top of the list?
Let us know your thoughts, and check out these other related articles on the topic.
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Posted by | Posted in Blog, Combat Ready, Tips & Skills, Truck Company, videos | Posted on 12-03-2011
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HUD Window Thinking and Learning from Past Fires
The term HUD Window refers to the stereotypical wooden board up frequently seen on “vacant” buildings, damaged buildings, and occasionally buildings under construction. It’s not a standardized term – I’m sure there are many regional variations. Just as there are variations in the name, there are variations in the style, construction, and manner of installation. As with all things forcible entry, a “one plan” approach is likely to fail you when the unexpected is encountered.
While out doing some district familiarization and rookie training we stopped at this house, which was the site of a recent fire. How often do you go by the address of fire you ran last tour, or the fire that the other shift went to? Unfortunately, I’ve worked in places where nobody has any interest in visiting the fire we ran last tour, or that the other shifts ran on the days off. That’s a terrible waste of resources. Not only is there a fire with good things to discuss, but it’s a fire that ACTUALLY HAPPENED IN YOUR AREA! Take a minute during the day to top by and see what went down.
In our area it would not be uncommon do go back to an address a second time due to arson or careless squatters. In this case we were able to not only to learn what to expect, and how houses in this area are being secured, but also do some rookie training and talk as a group about different ideas.
Different ideas are exactly what you’ll need for these situations. When I posted a brief pic of this house on our Facebook page the other day we had no less than 5 ideas in a few minutes. Is this something you spend time talking with your crew about, or do you just watch SportCenter all day?
There are many ways to skin this cat, but here are a few of my initial thoughts:
- As you pull up at a fire, don’t blindly run up with the same tools. Look at what you have. For example, as the OV FF here I would be thinking about bringing a chainsaw due to multiple boarded up windows – that’s not a usual tool for me in that position. I would make two cuts – one each as close to the outside of the frame as I could judge.
- I’d also consider a short ladder (10′ or less) to provide me with better access to these shoulder height windows (see this idea in use in Joe Brown’s OV video here). These 2×4 braces were also nailed into the sides of the frames, that may limit the effectiveness of certain removal techniques.
- As the irons FF or officer, i might think to tell my OV to start right away on the windows as we head to the door. Given the lack of an outside 2×4 here, I think we can make a relief strike just below the bolt heads with the 8lbs axe and just drive the bolts through to make access to the front door. Remember that YOU might have a plan and a thought, but the effectiveness of the entire CREW will improve if everyone knows it – COMMUNICATE. Ideally, PLAN AHEAD.
- Be prepared for surprises. You may assume by the presence of the HUD coverings over the door area that there is no additional challenge, however a peak inside allowed us to see that the original security gate was still in place. How strong is it? Who knows, but worth being prepared for.
- Of course being the site of a previous fire, I have to consider the buildings stability. In our area, squatters and vagrants are a distinct likelihood so my intentions are to enter if at all possible. That said, I’m paying extra attention to the floor’s stability as I move ahead. I’m also thinking that overhaul from the previous fire has given the fire a head start into void spaces.
Additional Resources (thanks to our Facebook friends!):
- http://www.allenemergency.com/hud_board_up_specs_for_city_boardups.html
- http://cmdfd.blogspot.com/2010/09/some-board-ups.html
- http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/napi4.pdf
Posted by | Posted in Blog, Combat Ready, Commentary, Tips & Skills, Truck Company | Posted on 25-02-2011
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Setting Up Your Irons
In this post I’ll discuss the setup features of the irons carried at work. There are of course many different setups and modifications that can be done to this essential set of tools, and as many opinions on each. Of course ours isn’t the only way, but I’ll try to explain the thought process behind our setup…
Different Jobs, Different Halligans...
Some modifications are more well suited to certain tasks. If your company uses riding assignments, you can match up the right Halligan for the anticipated task. I talked about this idea in a previous post, here. Sometimes I feel like fireman sometimes adopt a concept (or modification) just because its the hot new thing and not because an evaluation of their job reveals it would be useful.
The Axe…
An 8lbs axe has been my personal striking tool of choice ever since I learned about using it as a wedge. As Dan Troxell, my captain and also a TT instructor says, the sledge is a “one-dimensional tool”. I have taken advantage of the axes versatility on both inward and outward doors, both in a team or alone ,and have never found myself wishing i had a sledgehammer.
This axe is 8lbs, the extra 2lbs over the standard 6 provides significant extra “oomph” without being unwieldy to carry. On the underside of the blade we have ground a few indentations to allow the Halligan to marry close. Keeping the handles of the axe and Halligan close makes for an easy grip.
I do like having an extra grip made with some clothesline and lacrosse tape on the bottom 3rd of the axe handle.
The Halligan…
Starting at the forks, the tips of the forks are filed (not grinded) to a smooth thin curve. Many stock Halligans come with a small ridge on the beveled side of the tips. Many times I have seen that ridge catch on the leading edge of a door while forcing, effectively stopping progress. There is also a “set line” ground and marked with a dab of red paint. This is useful for judging the set depth, especially for newer members. Of course the fork’s shoulders have been flattened out to be available as a striking surface.
On the shaft, you’ll see that we have a “grip” in the middle 3rd. While not my personal preference, I’m not the only one who uses this bar. I’m usually content with the natural octagonal grip provided by the forged design of a good Halligan. I see many Halligans that have grip top to bottom. To me that eliminates the ability to slide a striking tool down the shaft onto the shoulders. However it seems that having the grip in the middle third has been good compromise – it adds a little grip when venting a window or opening up and seems to stay out of the way of the shoulders.
The head of the tool is kept clean and smooth. On the adz, the “blade” is kept thin – not like a knife, but free of ridges like we discussed on the fork tips. I would like to add a little width to the adz, maybe 1/2 inch (for extra leverage while gapping) but haven’t gotten around to it on this bar yet. The adz has a depth mark to help gauge when the adz has been set to the doorstop on an outward door, so that the door doesn’t get skinned by prematurely pulling out or down.
Wrapping Up…
So thats a quick rundown of our setup and why, as I finish a morning cup of coffee after shift change. It is important that we know not only WHAT we have, but also WHY. There are many potential setups and modifications. Evaluate what each position does at a fire and what setup would be most beneficial. For example, when operating as the hook firefighter (basically our OVM) I carry a 6′ Halligan hook and a bar. We’ll make that setup the topic of a future post.
So with that all said, whats your setup – AND WHY?
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Posted by | Posted in Blog, Combat Ready, Commentary, fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, Tips & Skills, training-development, training-fire-rescue-topics, Truck Company | Posted on 01-02-2011
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Test Your Hydra-Ram!
As many of you know, the hydra-ram is often not my first choice for forcible entry, but it’s definitely a frontline tool with purpose. And like any mechanical tool, it’s prone to failure… Last week at while teaching forcible entry at the training academy we had three separate failures of hydra-rams:
- One was a rupture of the body resulting in complete loss of hydraulic fluid.
- Another locked in the completely extended position
- And another would not stay open when pumped because the valve was broken.
The take home point is: WE HAVE TO TEST OUR TOOLS BEFORE WE GET TO THE FIRE DOOR. The hydra-ram is one of the tools that needs to be checked daily on the rig, but many problems with hydra-rams are not discovered until the tool is placed under load. A simple way to test the tool is to find something heavy around the firehouse and put the ram to the test! In this example, I simply used our dumpster out back. The tool is pumped to full extension, lifting the load, and left to sit for a minute to insure all’s well – then released. Should any problems arise, we can get a replacement or fix the tool before it’s needed on a job.
These failures should also further remind us of the importance of maintaining your forcible entry skills with the irons – both 1 and 2 firefighter techniques. Remember – when the door is locked, no interior operations can begin till it’s opened… Everyone’s counting on you, be prepared.
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Posted by | Posted in Blog, Combat Ready, fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, Tips & Skills, training-development, training-fire-rescue-topics, Truck Company | Posted on 07-08-2010
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Thru the Lock with your Channel Locks
We’ve talked a few times on here about going thru-the-lock on Adams-Rite style locks. I think this is an important skill as this style of lock is found on almost every glass commercial storefront in the nation, so it’s something found in almost everyone’s first due. Further, due to various associated challenges we’ve discussed in past posts, I think that going thru-the-lock in this scenario is likely our fastest option and will ultimately provide us with the most egress. You can see some of the reasons I make this statement in this previous post.
Adams-Rite locks are found on almost any storefront. Remember additional security may also be present.
This video demonstrates using a pair of modified channel locks to remove the lock cylinder and open the lock (click the link to learn how to make your own). Of course a K-tool, A-tool, or other lock puller could be used to remove the cylinder more quickly as well.
For a picture step-by-step on unlocking these with your key tool or channel locks, check out our previous post here. And let us know – what are your experiences and thoughts with this scenario?
Posted by | Posted in Blog, fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, Tips & Skills, training-development, training-fire-rescue-topics, Truck Company, Uncategorized, videos | Posted on 27-07-2010
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Tower Ladder Class in Johnston, IA Reinforces Key Point on Knowing Your (and their) Aerial Apparatus!
Last weekend TT instructors Scott Kraut, Mike Stothers, Joe Brown, and Nick Martin headed west to the metro Des Moines area for a Tower Ladder Operations course with the Johnston Fire Department. The two-day program brought attendees from all over Polk County to talk about truck work and the capabilities of various apparatus. All kinds of topics were covered, from forcible entry to ventilation to designing riding assignments. Sunday brought 40 students and 4 different styles of aerial apparatus for an awesome day of hands-on training at a great acquired building.
One of the goals for the weekend was to allow attendees to work with and understand the various capabilities of different aerial apparatus. While many departments only own one style of truck, it’s imperative that departments understand the capabilities and limitations of any style of aerial apparatus that might respond into their town. Rear-mount, mid-mount, tiller, tower, aerial – they all have specifics as to their positioning needs and use in various scenarios. The time to find those things out is NOT the fireground – if you don’t know these things in advance, you can’t POSSIBLY put the rig to the best use when it gets to your fire! It was great to work with a forward-thinking, pro-active group of enthusiastic firefighters. Thanks to the firefighters of Polk County for your hospitality and we’ll look forward to seeing you again!
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Posted by | Posted in administration-leadership, Blog, command-leadership, Company News, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, firefighting-operations, news, training-development, training-fire-rescue-topics, Truck Company | Posted on 05-07-2010
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Forcing Recessed Outward-Opening Doors
While drilling with my company on forcing outward-opening doors the other day, we discovered a problem that is unique to a situation where the door is recessed in a pocket and not flush with the door opening, and is secured with a surface-mounted lock (photo 1)…
Click the link to see the problem & solution…
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Posted by | Posted in Blog, fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, Tips & Skills, training-development, training-fire-rescue-topics, Truck Company | Posted on 21-06-2010
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Roll-Down Gates: Cutting the Channel Rails
When conducting forcible entry operations at commercial occupancies, especially taxpayers and/or strip malls, members may encounter roll-down gates which are secured with circular padlocks. These padlocks can be of several different types and sizes. In some areas, the American 2000 series (also known as the Hockey Puck Lock) is very popular (Photo 1). In other areas, the Abbus Discus lock (Photo 2) or other round types of round locks are widely used (Photo 3). These locks pose a significant problem in that they can not be cut as easily as standard padlocks. This is because the staples on these locks are either covered by the lock body itself (as with the American 2000), or protected by the pin and bracket. In addition, these locks are often protected by steel guards that are welded to the channel rails (Photo 4). These guards can also sometimes be found protecting standard pad locks as well (Photo 5, 6).Quite often, the quickest way to defeat these locks is to use a forcible entry (circular) saw to cut the channel rails above and below the locks and bend the locks out of the way to release the pins from the gate. Follow the link below for the rest of the tips and photos…
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Posted by | Posted in Blog, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, firefighting-operations, Tips & Skills, training-development, training-fire-rescue-topics, Truck Company | Posted on 14-05-2010
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Truck Company Ops in Brunnerville, PA
While some members of the Traditions Training staff boarded a plane for FDIC 2010, Instructors Dan Doyle, Scott Kraut, Mike Stothers and Joe Brown were with the volunteers of Brunnerville for Truck Company Operations. Although the Brunnerville Volunteers do not have a Truck, the officers and members understood the need for traditional truck company duties on the fireground. The 2 day class covered such skills as:
Forcible Entry Techniques- Street Smart Ground Ladders
- Through-the-lock
- Primary Search Techniques
- Vent Enter Search
- Victim Removal
- Tool Selection
- Crew Management
For day 2 the Truck Company from Lititz VFD was on hand to enhance their close working relationship on a first due Brunnerville fire. Students learned the importance of thinking of the fireground in terms of duties to be completed instead of the apparatus styles they arrived on. Drawing from their previous Traditions Training class on engine ops, the double engine house quickly adapted to multiple scenarios and arrival positions, including splitting their crews and completing both initial engine and truck ops effectively and without delay.
An abandoned school provided plenty of scenario options for day 2 as the Traditions staff tested the newly acquired skills of the Brunnerville Volunteers. Scenarios closely mimicked possible situations the students may find themselves in, from arriving together and finding fire and multiple people trapped to arriving alone for a fire alarm and requesting additional units for a discovered fire. Crews where faced with multiple forcible entry challenges, traveling smoke, search obstructions and multiple victims just to name a few. The Traditions Training staff had a great time and look forward to their next trip to Brunnerville.
To learn more about this or other Traditions Training classes, please click here or contact us.
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