Venting the Roof: July 25

Topics:

Routley At Firehouse Expo

Charleston Hottest Topic Across Country

More Changes On Tap In Charleston

Will Fire Service Change?


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Jay;

As I've written previously, the Routely Phase II Report, has entered into the Historical Aspect of Firefighter Training along with that of the:

A. Prince William County, Kyle Wilson Incident

B. Baltimore, Fire Training Fatality

C. Contra Costa County FPD Michele Dr. Incident, San Pablo, Calif..

In each tragic fire, things can be learned but as you've and others have advocated, read some of the other previous NIOSH LODD Reports and you beginb to see a
pattern that primarily revolves around:

1. Lack of adquate Staffing
2. Lack of Proper Command and Control
3. Lack of physical conditioning of firefighters
4. Excessive speed indriving a Fire Engine or Water Tender/Tanker

and many other items.

Its up to the individual Firefighter and FD to realize that what has happened elsewhere can and sometimes does happen top them.

Compare the Routely Panel Report to the Michele Drive Incident and there are some common items, number one of which is:

i. No established "BUC/IRIC" and later full RIT Team.

ii."Late Realization" that a RIT Activtion needed to happen.

iii. Lack of proper FF Accountability

This in a house less than 1,500 square feet as compared to the SSS Store.

Guarenteed, IAFF Local 1230 and others will be looking into the recommendations.

The question of what happens to Con Fire "Battalion 7" the IC remains to be looked at.

2. More Changes in Charleston. YES! As the new CFO is chosen changes will happen.

3rd. Fire Service changes. Yes, it too has to change whether individually or by legislation.

Changes have occured through the NFPA and Courts finding fault with those who did not follow them.

4th. SC Fire Service. It too will change. What is needed are changes in the Political Process.

On January 1st of this year, Californias
Governor singed a; "Firefighter's Bill of Rights" similiar to that of Peace Officers
ensuring that they get full "Due Process" in any disciplinary actions.

It required Political Action Work by
the Ca. Federated FF's, but in the end it adds another layer of job protections that FF's in South Carolina need but haven't recieved yet.