Head-first ladder bailouts
In rapidly deteriorating conditions, a properly performed head-first ladder bailout can be life saver. Here are some important fundamentals to prevent injuries during the procedure:
- Place the ladder at an angle less than 75 degrees to allow for greater control and prevent slipping
- Place the tip of the ladder just below the window sill so the exit area is kept open and the firefighter can keep low
- Exterior teams should position ladders on upper floor windows to provide alternate exit for interior companies in the event of an emergency
- Have a crew or member available to heel ladders or reposition ladders in the event the firefighter is in a window over from the ladder
- Communicate and listen; know where crews are operating and adjust accordingly
- Be proactive
- When training, make sure you use rated safety line and a rated safety harness assembly on the firefighter and inspect all ropes and harnesses in use prior to training
How to handle hydroplane situations
Should you find yourself in a hydroplane situation, research has shown that you should take a firm grip of the steering wheel, take your foot off the accelerator and do not touch the brakes. You should attempt to keep your vehicle on a safe heading by not turning the steering wheel. Hopefully, the vehicle will regain traction and you will be able to safely control the situation.
There is little that you can do to remove yourself from a hydroplane situation once it happens. Instead, it is important to prevent this situation all together. The best way to prevent your vehicle from hydroplaning is to slow down in wet or inclement weather. The faster you go, the more likely you are to hydroplane. It is not uncommon to see vehicles hydroplane at speeds as low as 30-40 mph.
