Report Number: 09-0000523
Report Date: 05/23/2009
Event Description
A firefighter was assigned to apply salvage covers to furniture on the first floor. The fire was located in the basement and was not under control. This assignment was given without knowledge of conditions in the basement and given to an inexperienced crew not equipped with SCBA. When the door opened to the basement, it caused visibility to change and disoriented the crew. The crew separated trying to find a window or door. I used my helmet to attempt breaking a window and this alerted an exterior firefighter that we were in trouble. As a result, a firefighter entered and escorted two members to safety.
Lesson Learned
1. Task allocation.
2. Properly train and equip.
3. Use of SCBA.
4. Remain oriented to location and exits.
5. Better risk management.
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