Deploying a 2½” hoseline
In this edition of “KTW” Captains Nelson and Flores will discuss (1) the use of a 2½” hoseline and (2) unsafe driving practices. These topics and experienced based opinions should be points of discussion amongst all of us.
Operational question: An 1¾” hoseline is often deployed in lieu of a 2½” simply because it’s easier to handle. How do you ensure a 2½” is deployed when conditions warrant a larger hose line?
CII Paul Nelson, FS 73-A: I’m going to start by saying an issue like this is incident driven. Firefighters must be “thinkers” as we’re routinely tasked with processing numerous operational inputs and making the correct decision. For example, a “one-roomer” in a SFD does not warrant a 2½” – such a fire can be easily extinguished with a 1¾” or 1½”.
When fighting a commercial fire a 2½” is often required to quench a heavy fire load and BTU’s – I like the phrase, “Go Big or Go Home” when battling large fires. Deployment considerations for a 2½” should include: volume of fire, reach and penetration, GPM and water supply. Also consider that when using a 2½” a smaller line (1¾”) is often deployed for added manipulation and protection.
The 2½” is difficult to maneuver and demands more firefighters to effectively advance and manipulate. Even though a 2½” has superior volume and reach it continues to be underutilized because of a lack of training and familiarity. It appears we don’t drill enough with the 2½” so firefighters are hesitant to use it. When at large fires bring big water and BIG HANDLINES. Simple put, don’t cut corners.
CII Jim Flores, FS 21-A: Unfortunately, we see this more today than in the past. This seems to stem from a lack of operational awareness and/or a failure by command to cover their SOG’s and expectations. The best way to ensure a 2½” is used appropriately is to drill to ensure your company understands when it’s needed and how it’s deployed.
Fire showing from a large commercial requires lots of GPM in a hurry. Such a fire may warrant multiple 2½” or a 60/60/Stukey nozzle right from the start. With only smoke showing a 1¾” may be appropriate to locate the fire, but then a 2½” must be deployed for the added GPM. If you encounter tight quarters or sharp turns it may be necessary to advance a “dry” 2½” as far as safety allows prior to loading it.
Your tactical priorities should be clear and executed without much input – this will only occur if you’ve trained to know its (2½”) capabilities, when it’s warranted and how to deploy it effectively. It’s your responsibility to state your expectations and clear up any uncertainties with off-shifters. Remember, once on-scene the mission should be clear and your members trained to safely carry it out.
Leadership question: With numerous newly appointed A/O’s and Engineers in the field emergency driving can become an issue. How do you address those that drive too fast?
CII Paul Nelson: Most firefighter’s promoted to A/O or Engineer have extensive emergency driving experience from driving an ALS or BLS ambulance. Even though this experience is gained by driving “light” apparatus, officers should expect a more mature driver upon promotion. For those intent on driving too fast, I warn them that: “You are driving as if you have never been in an accident” and “You are assuming all drivers are as good as you.”
Simply put, drivers attempt to impress by driving fast. It’s important that drivers understand the definition of a “defensive” driver as one who makes allowances for their own inexperience as well as the lack of knowledge, skills and abilities of the other driver. As an officer, if you don’t immediately act then you condone unsafe driving. Refusing to correct unsafe driving is on YOU, the supervisor, not the driver.
Take it from someone who has failed to be proactive in the past; communicate your driving expectations to all drivers, not just your rated members. Always remain mindful that the community is watching – so slow down. Drivers can always make-up time by knowing their district and getting to the apparatus quicker.
CII Jim Flores: It’s extremely important to address driving issues when they first occur. All drivers must understand the importance of safe driving and the impact it can have if they don’t. When reviewing driving philosophy and expectations, I remind drivers they have an obligation to the citizens, those on the road and the members on the rig.
If we wreck, hurt someone and never arrive on-scene then we’ve failed in our mission. Driving accidents can affect the lives of many: the victim(s), future generations of the victim’s family, LAFD members, and those we respond to. It’s also very important to discuss the consequences of litigation and its effects on their livelihood. I remind them neither they nor the LAFD are exempt from litigation while driving emergency.
The importance of immediately addressing unsafe driving cannot be overstated. Today’s drivers are sued more frequently than in the past, with many across the country losing their jobs following legal action. Remember, if you fail to immediately address a driving issue then the member in question and members witnessing it will assume you condone it. As a leader have the courage to engage – keep your folks out of trouble and make sure everyone goes home safely.
In next months KTW Captains Brian Hampton, Steve Berkery and Eric Nakamaru will discuss (1) Organizational core values vs operational core values, and (2) interior vertical extension on Victorian homes.
Facilitated by Jerry Bedoya