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Drill of the Week: Structural Collapse Indicators
By Forest Reeder
The possibility of collapse is present at virtually every fire scene. Explosions, fire consumption of load bearing members, fuel loads, and water loading from fire streams are all conditions that could trigger catastrophic collapses. Early identification of these hazards is an essential function of everyone on the fireground. Knowledge of building construction characteristics and the hazards associated with each type is a career-long effort. Make the study of building construction and early identification of collapse hazards a priority in your training efforts.
Download this week's firefighter training drill as a PDF HERE.
Forest Reeder began his fire service career in 1979. He currently serves as Battalion Chief / Director of Training & Safety with the Pleasantview (IL) Fire Protection District (www.plvw.org) and is the Director of Training for Southwest United Fire Districts (www.sufd.org). In these capacities, he is responsible for the design, implementation and coordination of in-service training activities as well as a full-service fire training academy program. Forest holds numerous Illinois fire service certifications and holds a Masters Degree in Public Safety Administration from Lewis University.
