LaFireEducators Response to Bruce Philpott's
I would first like to thank the GFD for canceling its policy that allowed FF to jog in remote parks or out of their districts altogether. This has been one of my primary concerns because my audit showed significant delays as a result of this policy. I am pleased that they listened to this and the public is better protected as a result.
Good going Bruce. If this was an issue, you should be happy it's been addressed.
Regarding the 2 in, 2 out and staffing with 3 or 4 persons on engine and truck companies. You were told a story where a captain and two ff's advanced a line into a structure on fire. This is a clear and direct violation of OSHA safety rules that require 4 ff's for an entry team, not 3. What was not told to you was that the 4th FF on that engine company was the engineer and for FF safety he must remain at the controls of the pump to guarantee a steady stream of water for the entry team. He cannot leave his post or the safety of the FF would be compromised. So in order to mount an interior attack on a structure fire with the first arriving engine company you have to have at least 5 FF. And, by the time it takes to connect a hose to the hydrant, bring an attack line from the engine to the entry point, the second engine company has arrived.
Bruce. Do yourself a favor. You clearly know nothing about fireground operations and functions. The scenario you suggest is completely at odds with reality. If a rescue is necessary to rescue a downed firefighter, the apparatus operator is very much able to leave the pump panel to participate in that effort. Five firefighters are not needed. Despite what you and the mythical career firefighter group believe, this is not true.
Fire union president, Capt. Stavros told you earlier today, and referring to a picture of a house on fire, that they could not make entry unless they had 4 FF. What he didn't tell you was that the fire had advanced enough where the truck company had to ventilate to allow the heat, gases and smoke to clear so they could make entry. By the time the first arriving truck company is on scene, there are at least two and probably three engine companies. Therefore, regardless if staffed with three or four, by the time the truck company ventilates the roof, there are sufficient FF on the fire ground to mount an entry.
Wrong again. Entry is made prior to ventilation efforts all the time. I have to once again state you have no idea what you're talking about in regards to fireground operations.