I ran across this compilation of building collapses through a link, through a link, through a link, etc. It reinforces the fact that we, as firefighters, must be more than just familiar with the buildings we are literally walking in to every day. We must be street-wise experts on building construction and the secrects that may one day, either save your life or take your life. Literally.
One needs to keep a keen eye, not just while you're on duty but when you're out running errands or killin' time. Look around yourself - look above, what's your ceiling type, what sort of material is it made of, is it a drop cieling, is it exposed light weight truss? There's a million different variables.
Look below your feet, what you're walking on, think about where your standing and what could potentially be there. Basement/cellar? If there is, what sort of storage is likely to be below you? What sort of details can give you hints of whats below the linoleum or tile? What do the walls look like? Which ones are load bearing vs non-load bearing? Which one are you gonna be able to punch through when you get in a pinch? This is the stuff we need to know!
Before I go much further off track, my point is this, KNOW YOUR BUILDING CONSTRUCTION.
Rest assured that Engineers, the real ones with science degrees, are not our friends. They are here simply to come up with the most cost effective plan using the least amount of material and labor possible to construct a building. Period. Firefighters are not in the forefront of their minds as they're waiting for their paychecks.
Read. Learn. Share. Prepare. Never Stop.
Ronan Point, London, UK
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