GRABS Podcast: Grant Schwalbe and Justin McWilliams bringing you the stories of the victim rescues being made all over the country.
The GRABS Podcast is a fantastic podcast that provides listeners with valuable information and inspiring stories. Whether you're listening during your morning drive to work or while fishing, this podcast offers insights that can make a difference in your life. The hosts do an excellent job of putting together episodes filled with solid content that is sure to resonate with their audience.
One of the best aspects of The GRABS Podcast is the wide range of stories and experiences shared by the guests. From unexpected situations to the importance of hard work, there is always something to learn from each episode. The hosts have a knack for finding guests who have unique perspectives and engaging stories to share. It's incredible to hear about the work these gentlemen do for the fire service and how they go above and beyond to make a difference.
Another great aspect of this podcast is the high-quality content it consistently delivers. Listeners can always expect a well-produced episode with informative and entertaining segments. The hosts clearly put a lot of effort into researching topics, finding compelling guests, and crafting episodes that captivate their audience. It's evident that they are passionate about what they do and genuinely care about providing value to their listeners.
While it's challenging to find any significant flaws in this podcast, one area for improvement could be occasionally diversifying the topics covered. Although the focus on firefighting and emergency services is fascinating, incorporating other related fields or industries could add even more depth to the discussions. However, this is a minor suggestion as the current content is already highly enjoyable.
In conclusion, The GRABS Podcast excels at delivering exceptional content through its engaging storytelling and inspiring guest interviews. It's clear that the hosts are dedicated to providing valuable information while also entertaining their audience. Whether you're seeking motivation, insight into firefighting, or simply enjoy listening to captivating stories, this podcast will not disappoint. Keep up the great work!
* Grabs 157 North Hudson, NJ (January 23, 2025) * Nick speaks with Peter Mancini about a grab they made on January 23, 2025 in North Hudson, NJ * Peter Mancini-captain * North Hudson Fire & Rescue * January 23rd * 33 story hi rise * 0939 removal less than 20 minutes * female weight approximately 160 pounds age 77 * rope rescue from 29th floor balcony, fire was on the floor below. best to stay on balcony and shelter in place. * Crew * John Antommarchi 24 yrs * Phil Jawny 12 yrs. rescuer * Jamie Montes 12 yrs anchor man * Kevin Greenfield 7 yrs control man * train like you play. * the importance of tool assignment * you're only as good as your crew.
* Grabs 156 Arvada Fire Protection District, CO (December 12, 2022) * Grant speaks with Phil and Tom from Arvada Fire Protection District about a grab made on December 14, 2022. * Phil Stover, FF/medic and Tom Lyons, Lt/medic * 3 level large multi family (Interior hall apartments-60ish) * Known victim floor 1/fire floor * PD evacuated on floor 2 * 12:01 from air brake to removal * Vict 120 pounds * Dirty drag/ arm and leg * Takeaways: * 1) communication, * 2) getting low, * 3) situational awareness, * 4) complacency (take every radio transmission with a grain of salt)
* Grabs 155 Mesa, AZ (August 20, 2017) * Nick speaks with Chris Sleigher and Kasey Beal about a grab they made on August 20, 2017 * Chris Sleigher (current BC), Captain at the time of the grab. * Kasey Beal (current Chief 1 of Golden [CO] FD, BC at the time of the grab. * Mesa Fire And Medical Department. * August 20, 2017, single-story, ordinary construction. * Approximately five minutes between arrival, time, and victim removal. * The weight of the victim was over 300 pounds. * The removal method was performing the Denver drill out of an elevated window. * Some of the takeaways were the IC was able to have tactical patience and understand the impacts of the flow path and victim removal. Trusting and training your cruise and departmental support and expect expectations through standard operation procedures. * YouTube video of Fairview Fire Review...https://youtu.be/Es67SVABGc0 * Takeaways-Ensure the 3-deep model for resources on working fires, especially with persons reported, backfill ambulances or rescues for firefighters, drop CyanoKits on smoke inhalation victims (us or them) strong command presence, predictable deployment of resources, commit on deck crews to support search, rescue and fire control, Plan B isn't Plan A harder.
Grabs 154 Midwest City, OK (1/18/25)Grant speaks with Dan Herren about a grab they made on 1/18/25Captain Dan Herren6:30 AM Toned to mutual aid fire (Spencer)Engine on scene already from Spencer with line stretched.Arrival 7:50 after first engine1 story 800 SF SFD (Fire showing from roof)Go straight to BC cornerWindow search-Upon taking noticed floor to ceiling hoarding conditionsChose different room to start. Search room and then into hall and rest of house.Victim found in bathroom (by second rescuer to search it)Dirty drag back to front door (path of least resistance) Arms and Legs (Head first)250 lbs not slippery and fully clothed.
* Grabs 153 Iona McGregor Fire (Fort Myers, FL) (1/23/25) * Grant speaks with Nick Fischer about a grab he made on 1/23/25 * BC first arrive on scene * Light smoke showing. * Reported victim inside * Engine 2 minutes behind BC * BC went in-smoke down to 3', ducked under smoke and found victim in bedroom * 150 lb vict-put over shoulder to remove. * Saw the fire in the closet, isolated bedroom on way out. * Gave incoming units their assignments and did 360 prior to arrival of next in. * Discussion on go no go for BC arriving before suppression unit.
* Grabs 152 San Diego, CA (1/19/2025)* Nick speaks with Michael Culver about a grab they made on 1/19/25* Name and Rank: Michael Culver, Firefighter 3 / PM* Department Name: San Diego Fire-Rescue Dept* Date of Grab: 1/19/25* Type of building: single story Residential* Approx time from arrival to removal: arrival 18:32, removal 18:35* Weight of the victim (approximately): 110 lbs* Method of removal: lift and cradle carry, handled to another firefighter out the window.* 3-4 takeaways for show notes: assignment flexiblity, don't attempt something mult times if not working, risk considerations
* Grabs 151 Watauga Fire Department, TX (1/7/2025) * 1/7/25 * Grant speaks with Clayton Miller about a grab they made on 1/7/25 * FF Clayton Miller * 2 story residential * 2317-2325 * Vict weight 285 * Under arm and leg drag to window, out the window of the room * On scene, family told us exactly where he was in the house. Victim said that when he couldn't get out, he got as low as he could and waited for our guys to come get them. Guy was stable upon removal and medic crew that found him transported him. Cyanokit was administered. House was high content load, the fire was relatively small but conditions in the fire room were good. Good visibility, but everything in the house was cluttered
Grabs 150 East Madison, IN (6/12/24)Nick speaks with Kyle Thomas about a grab they made on 6/12/24Kyle Thomas, CaptainEast Madison Fire Territory6/12/20242 story single family homeApprox time from arrival to removal (4 minutes to removal)Weight of the victim (approximately 110lbs)Method of removal (Simple grab and drag)A few takeaways I had were people are hot when they're in a fire and very slick.I did a simple left handed search and located her. Probably should have used my TIC but honestly didn't think about it.I found her with my hands and probably would have missed her if I had tried searching with a tool.
Grabs 149 Spokane Fire, Washington (4/20/24)Grant speaks with Brennen and Cliff about a grab they make in Spokane on 4/20/24Brennen Cooke (FF) and Cliff York (Driver)Story and a half balloon frame house 1600 SFHeavy Fire front of structure (neighbor called, unknown occupants)Split SearchHoarder ConditionsArrival to first victim out- about 7 minutes7 minutes from first victim to last victim out2 year old boy, 7 year old boy, ~275lb adult male, ~300+ lb adult femaleAll 4 came out the half story windowIf forcing a door, do life fire layout immediately; don't clear jamb and then finish what you're doing firstActually might have to dig for victims in hoarder conditionsDo more training with cyano-kitsBring a ladder every time when assigned for searchMake sure to do a victim 360
* Grabs 148 Bowling Green, KY (1/26/2022)* Jeffrey Bryant speaks with Corey Mahaney about a grab made on January 26th, 2022* Some takeaways that I have are, I wish I would have flipped him over on his back. Because I was so close to the door and he was just laying on trash I drug him out face first. When we got off the truck we had a bystander in the yard saying that the victim ran back inside to look for his cat. We knew his last known location and did a targeted search based off our information. I remember there was thick black smoke pushing out of the front door and it was banked down to within a couple feet of the floor. Once I got right inside the door I could see his feet and knew he was face down. Quick mask up time is one thing that I think made this a quick grab. I was masking up as I was walking across the yard and when I got to the front door I was ready to go in. After the victim was out in the yard I opened his mouth and it has just a coating of black soot inside. Other firemen on scene took over patient care then the Patient was transported to a burn center. He is still alive as far as I know. After this me and my captain did VES to other rooms. The first victim was the only person located. The first room we tried to do VES through a window and stuff was stacked from the floor to ceiling we couldn't make entry. The 2nd window I was able to climb in, while my captain stayed out with the tic. I was climbing on trash and I will never forget it was clear as could be in the room and before I got the whole room searched I had fire on top of the ceiling just rolling toward the flow path the broken window made. I know this is not part of the grab but it was the only experience I have had on the fire ground like this.
* Grabs 147 Cobb County, GA (Dec 7, 2024) * Jake Rogers, Captain Sean Gray * https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=SzbLMjyczK0 * Jake's first fire, second week on the job. * Residential fire right around the corner. * Basement fire with flames showing. * Initial plan was stretch 1.75” line, 30' setback to bravo side. * Met by woman at AB corner, screaming that her husband was inside. (Soot on her face) * In bed, disabled and had dementia, right inside front door to the left. * Pivoted to rescue mode and made entry in front door. * 15' down and 15' back from door. * No viz and hot * Cobb county uses feet against the wall. * Called out when he got to room, was quiet and heard groaning. Found Hospital bed with lots of blankets and victim. * Pulled victim to legs and then ground from the bed. 160-170 lbs * Wrist lock for removal and protected his head as best he could. * Went out using bottle against the wall until met by LT. LT lead him the rest of the way out. * Victim out before second due arrived. 1:30-2 min. * Passed victim off and continued with fire attack. * https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/12Keugk3hwb5G-pJdMEmyVv2BPaochHgJ
* Grabs 146 Rural Metro * Nick Ledin Speaks with Nick Johnson about a grab they had on Dec 6, 2024 * Nick Johnson, Resident Firefighter * Rural Metro Fire * Dec 6th 2024 * Single Wide Trailer * 3-4 minutes * 180-200 pounds * Drag method * Listening to occupants on the location of a victim is absolutely necessary to ensure a quick rescue. * Planning in the truck enroute to call the also helps speed up rescue time as each member knows their job when the company is in rescue mode. * Backseat guys need to absolutely be ready to go interior coming off the truck.
Grabs 145 Mandan Fire, ND (1/14/2024)JB talks with Lt Erik Short from Mandan Fire. They talk about a grab that was made on 1/14/24 Air consumption rate during a rescue. How smaller departments can/ need to have a culture of being aggressive. Getting solid Intel on possible victims. Practical training.
Grabs 144 Fort Worth, Texas (8/10/24)Trevor Poitevent - CaptainBrad Adamcik - EngineerFort Worth Fire Department August 10, 20241 story single family residence2-2.5 minutes from arrival to out the window125-140 lb 94 year old femaleHeadfirst out window, it was a known victim with solid location information. It was a window based search and rescue.Takeaways1) Every Ems call is a learning opportunity for fire. From layouts, burglar bars, interesting construction. We had been to this house before and knew where her bedroom was and her lack of mobility should have her confined to a small area.2). Where there's one, there's two, always assume multiple victims. We didn't have a second victim but we were thinking it because we knew her son lived with her.3). Have plans, talk about your playbook and don't think the same thing happens at every fire. Mental reps count and everyone being on the same page based on the given circumstances was a huge help, I didn't have to give any direction as the officer, the guys went to work. We coordinated well with the next engine, with minimal discussion, due to our close relationship with them.4) be ready on arrival, FF's were masked up coming off the rig.5). I know you said 3-4 but here's another. If you can Isolate the space, do it. But be prepared for that option to be nonexistent.
* Grabs 143 Coventry Twp, OH (10/30/24) * LT. Mike Gasaway * 10/30/24 * Single Story Wood Frame * Came in as people trapped * Front of house fire showing, one person out with a diagram of layout. * 03:15-03:23(1st one) 03:27 2nd one * 250lbs * Denver Drill * 1- All Mutual Aid getting toned at same time * 2- Mutual Aid med unit on first alarm * 3- Minimal talking on fire ground. Lots of face to face
Grabs 142 Charlotte County, FL (9/27/2024)Grant speaks with Shawn and Dennis about a grab they made on a fire while being deployed on Hurricane Helene.Engineer Dennis Kerr-North Collier FireCaptain Shawn Robinson-South Trail FireFLUSAR TF6While out doing area surveys/rescue a fire was in there area.Responded on side by side in USAR gear, no fire gear. Arrived before engine.Manufactured home with heavy fire in carport, extending into house.PD with wife stating everyone was out, neighbor stating husband went back in.With no PPE Dennis and Shawn went in from C side, smoke banked halfway down. Victim found by carport door.Dirty drag to bring victim out C-Side and then around to front. Ended up taking victim to awaiting rescue in side by side.Don't listen to bystander reports…even from cops.
Grabs 141 Glasgo Fire, Kentucky (10/27/24)Grant speaks with Colin Manley9:52 PM Came in as house fire from neighbor4 plex apartment/townhouseSmoke showing from C side evesDuring 360 heard beating on the windowCrew threw ladders to windowOfficer went front door-first floor clear, Smoke 6' down off second floor (no hoselne)Life fire layout at top of stairs-Found room with trapped occupant.Clutter in room, found victims ankle-he was standingVictim came down on FF and was combative.Vict then went unconscious.Victim was slippery-6' 230 lbsMultiple FF's helped drag him down the stairs-Wrist lock-head first :44 seconds from arrival.Second floor fire, adjacent room.Lessons-take a TIC, Pay attention on 360, Pay attention for your way out, pillows and blankets on the floor feel like victims and make way out hard. Victim weight and slippery. Multiple drag techniques
Grabs 14- Fort Dodge, IA (11/17/24)Name and Rank:-Kyle Porter Firefighter/ParamedicDepartment Name:-Fort Dodge Fire RescueDate of Grab:11/17/24Type of Building:-3 Story Ordinary Construction-Multifamily Dwelling built in 1895-22' wide by 140' deep-Approx 5 units not conforming to codeArrival to Removal:-3 minutesWeight of Victim:-110 poundsMethod of Removal:-24' ground ladder with a 14' roof ladder spliced-Hooks of the roof ladder were placed into the window. The ledge was wider thanopening on hooks, so those were not hooked into the room.-I told the victim she was going to have to climb onto the ladder as I had to push the roofladder into the 24' extension and also pull down on the roof ladder to keep it from sliding on the ledge of the window.-I assisted her in transferring to the extension ladder and stayed behind her while moving to the ground.-The victim was then able to walk away from the building and head towards ambulance staging.Show Notes:1) Prior to my shift beginning at 0700 on 11/16 I came in to work at 0330 for a second alarm on the shift prior to mine for a single family dwelling fire. That fire included extensive overhaul and we did not clear the scene until shift change.2) At 0220 on 11/17 we were dispatched to an intersection where a police officer reported a structure fire fully engulfed with occupants still inside. We were responding in what we call a “broken play”. We were clearing from a natural gas leak in a restaurant when we were dispatched to the structure fire. Our Incident Commander was the farthest from the structure fire. Our IC normally is first on scene and can give crews a mode of operation/play prior to our arrival with his arrival report.a) My engine I was assigned to was the first on scene simultaneously with the next engine.b) The engine I was assigned to operates with duties as a truck would. We were also on a reserve engine that day as the apparatus we normally operate with is out of service for repairs.c) The road was completely blocked by police squad cars hindering our access to the scene and denied us the ability to get a good view of the structure.3) When I dismounted the apparatus as the driver, normally I would retrieve my SCBA, Helmet and other needed equipment from an outside compartment. I was met by multiple people in the roadway stating someone was hanging out of a window and that we would need a ladder to get her out. I retrieved the 24' ladder off of our engine and went to the delta side of the building where the victim was found leaning out of a 3rd story window.a) Incident command arrived at that time. He mentioned using a 35' ladder to get the height we needed. I advised him we did not currently have an apparatus on scene that carried a 35' ladder. At that time the engine company was able to park in front of the building. The IC grabbed the roof ladder while I was talking to the victim from the 24' ladder. He handed me the roof ladder and I leaned it into the window.b) With the hooks of the ladder not reaching downward passed the ledge of the window I knew I would be unable to ascend it to help the victim down. I then explained to her that she needed to get on the ladder at that moment as the smoke conditions were getting worse. At that point I was unable to see her from the 24' ladder. She began to descend the ladder and I assisted her in transferring to the extension ladder and down to the ground.4) After removing her from the structure I made contact with my Lt. and we knew there was a bed confined occupant on the first floor. We retrieved a cot from an ambulance and went into the structure to remove her. She had no injuries but we had to place her in an ambulance away from the incident. When we loaded her into the ambulance, the victim from the window was requesting medical attention along with an occupant from the same room as her who had self extricated.a) No other medics were readily available at that moment. I began assessing those two for smoke inhalation and other injuries. A parent showed up on scene at that time and stated she would take care of them and get them to the hospital if needed.b) When I went to regroup with my crew I was met in the roadway by another occupant of the structure. She stated she was in the unit that was on fire and that she had attempted to put the fire out. Her pant leg was burned and she had 2nd degree burns on her left lower leg. She had heavy amounts of soot on her lips and tongue. I determined she needed emergent transport to the hospital at that time and told IC I would be taking another member with me to transport her.c) This victim ended up being intubated in the ER and flown by helicopter to the nearest burn center.d) After transporting her I returned to the scene to complete secondary searches with my crew and perform overhaul operations.
Grabs 139 Oklahoma City, OK (10/20/2023)Grant and Nick Speak with the guys from Firemanship 2024Major Brad TobinFF Jared Ward2 Story Garden ApartmentConfirmed fire and trapped by dispatchCallers gave apartment numbersBig victims250 Male350 Woman in bathtubMega mover? Window Cut Down?
Grabs 138 Bowling Green, KY (3/4/2024)Apartment Fire2 victimsExpect victimsSearch around victims for additional ones, especially childrenSearch off the hose line as making your way to the fireIf you're the only crew on scene be flexible enough to complete multiple tasks at once.
Grabs 137 Longview, TX (Sept 2023)Grant and Nick Speak with the guys from Firemanship 2024BC Jon Eric JohnsonDriver Brad ConradoFF Josh Mosley430A2 Story Multi-Unit ApartmentMultiple Victims Known before arrivalGround Ladder Rescue-Told 2 more insideDivision Sup
* Grabs 136 Haltom City Fire, TX (12/4/2022) * Grant speaks with Bryan about a fire they had on 12/4/2022 * 3:54A * First 2 crews were not used to working together. Arrive together. * Small 1 story brick home 1000 SF * Neighbors said someone was out. * Fire showing outside of bedroom window * Fire attack locates vict in wheelchair via tic. * LT pealed off and removed victim. Tried using wheelchair, got caught on hose * Bottleneck in hallway * Zero viz down hallway by bedrooms * Second victim found up against the door, moved vict to get door open * Big victim. Head towards front door. Wrist drag with LT pushing, 1-2-3 pull 3-4' * Slippery, narrow hall and dragging over fire hose. * Pass victim off and finish * Vict 1
* Grabs 135 Wadsworth, OH (May 13, 2024) * Grant speaks with Danny Loparo about a grab they made on May 13, 2024. * 2 station combination department * 730 A-Call came in from elderly lady that said her O2 was on fire. Line went dead. * 55+ Community, 2 story town homes with 4 in a row * Smoke showing from second floor * First line in front, Ladders to rear * Attack and VES arrived at victim same time, Doubled ladders (side by Side). Attack hands victim out and two person removal down ladder. * 5'5” 130 lbs, slippery, handed out head first.
Grabs 134 Aurora, IL (November 27, 2021) Live from FiremanshipJeffrey Bryant
Grabs 133 Aurora, IL (January 25 ,2020) Live from FiremanshipMatthew Acuff2 story wood frame3 kids out, parents missingLight smoke no heat first floorHead and no Viz Second floor250 lbs 5'3"Window Lift, Ladder Removal 2 Ladders
Grabs 132 Elyria, OH (April 9, 2023)Grant speaks with FF Brian Abbott about a grab his crew made on April 9, 2023 in Elyria, OH802A at shift changeOn scene at 806 victim out 809House fire with people trapped, fire showing upon arrival2 units arrived simultaneouslyVictim found on life fire layout replayed to truck to go get themSmoke 3/4 way downPerson found in hospital drag, with dog in bedSheet drag, man fell through sheetWheelchair nearby-tried to put him in that and he fell outEnded up doing a dirty wrist dragPassed victim off, finished first floor (cluttered)Went to second floor (zero viz)(Hoarder conditions)Reports over radio of 2 kids missing and adultHigh heat on second floor, flowing, belly search, swapped out due to low air,Found deceased victim in fire room by another officer.After the fact found out mom had left with kids the night before (domestic)
Grabs 131 St George Fire Dept, Louisiana (June 14, 2023)Grant speaks with Lt Aaron Kowal about a grab that was made on June 14, 2023LT Aaron Kowal8A4-plex with fire upon arrivalZero viz, clutterOriented Search, Capt with TICFelt table/chair legs then kid9 year old kid, agonal breaths, 80 lbsDirty drag, let Capt handle radioTook kid 1/3 mile to EMS, then went back in to finish searchOccupy spaceTime is more important than absolute thoroughnessTIC didn't pick up victim because victim was behind a glass table turned over.1 min arrival to door2 min door to victim out
Melcher-Dallas Fire is dispatched for a residential structure fire. - En route, no one is home, no cars around, occupant "should be at work"- Fire is in a 1.5 story bungalow on a corner lot, fire is in the window AC unit on the Delta/Alpha side- Engine crew entered the home as fire attack, through the charlie side - 1 occupant is found in her home, and removed by the attack crew- Occupant is transported to the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics Burn Unit via air ambulance- Occupant survived the incident
Craig Bronson2A House Fire (2 Story-Residential Sprinklers)Special Needs House5 blocks from firehouse3 engines/3 rescues plus auto aid from Osceola County Fire.Attic Fire with explosions with 6-7 kids trapped upstairs (3-4 bed ridden)Another working fire 2 blocks away-Mutual aid went to other fire1st Floor Smokey but OK visibility. Landing to 2nd floor, zero viz but not much heat. TIC not helpful.Crib-hand reached up and grabbed mask (2 victims on ventilators)210 lb victim, removed down stairs4 total victims rescued.St. Cloud special needs home damaged by fire (orlandosentinel.com)
- Date of incident: 1/26/2024 in Denver, CO- First due Engine and medic crew married as one unit- Fire attack and targeted search- Big takeaways: practice like you play, don't just get stuck in the rut of training one procedure at a time, but make it realistic. Always be ready. Get dialed with your crew. Get dialed with your neighboring districts, we've got several in our area.
ready to fill any role.Grabs 127 Houbstadt, IN (October 30, 2023Steve Buchta-Scott Twp Fire and EMS3 stations staffing 9Mutual Aid Call-Manpower for working house fire (to 100% volunteer Dept)10 min response time900 sq ft 1 story house heavily involved)Appeared to be going defensive (master streams and ladder going)IC wanted crew to be prepared to overhaul ops.Crew was hit by ladder stream while staging on C side.Crew was met by neighbor asked if occupant had gotten out. More information that he slept in basement. IC said no search had been done in basement yet.Crew assigned search and defensive ops suspended.Zero Viz in basement, some fire on first floor and roof coming in.No radio communication with anyone else on scene or dispatch (different radio systems)Narrow stairway and steep steps, 3-4” water in basement.Split search-Voice contactVictim in blanket on couch (appeared to be sheltering in place).Webbing first attempt unsuccessful-went to dirty drag.180-200 lbsNarrow stairs-top guy bear hug and low guys pushed him upPassed off victim-one round of CPR and pulse returned.
Nick Speaks with Tanner Owen about a grab his crew made on Dec 12, 2023
Grabs 126 Des Moines (December 12, 2023)Show Notes:-- Dispatch 12/12/2023 22:12 (10:12 PM) --Residential Structure Fire, caller is trapped with his grandma in the upstairs of the house, active fire in the back of the house and house is full of smoke.DC1DC2Engines 1, 4, 5Trucks 1, 9MS 1, 4Units added in later - Engine 2MS05Arrive E04 22:15:30 (3:30) Fire attack C-sideArrive MS04 22:16 (4:00) Laddering B-sideArrive MS01 22:17 (5:00) Window rescueArrive T01 22:17 (5:00) SearchVictim Window on arrival, rescued 22:19 (1:30 after MS01 arrival) showing from B-side bathroom window with heavy smoke pushing on them, attempted head first ladder entry, guided to feet first out of sash intact double hung windowVictim interior 22:21 (4 minutes post arrival T01) - A-B bedroom 2nd division on the floor, making noise as crew got to the top of the stairs, unconscious shortly thereafter, sheltered and bunkered behind things, 1 man farmer carry to hallway and crew carry down stairs and out the front doorMS01 Transport 22:27 (15 minutes after dispatch, 10 minutes after arrival), returned to scene for overhaul, both victims conscious on arrival to the hospitalCommand by exception -1st engine Fire Attack2nd engine Backup line3rd engine RIT1st Truck Search2nd Truck Ventilation and Utilities1st Medic Fire Attack2nd Medic Accountability1st DC Command2nd DC Safety
Grabs 125 Rossford, OH (Dec 15, 2023)IMAT-Shared Chiefs across borders for big incidentsMulti-Family Structure Fire-Garden Style 3 storySmoke showingBarrett-Second arriving Chief, assigned safetyPerson presented at balcony with smoke behind him.24' Ladder thrown to balcony (top of railing)Should have told him to close the door to limit smoke (after thought).Need a plan for balcony rescue (ladder lower)Assisted with victim self rescue, talk with them on way down.2 other victims rescued by other crews.Importance of chief officers to be ready to fill any role.
Grabs 124 Blairsville Volunteer FD, PA (August 28, 2023)* Grant speaks with Chief Zach Dixon and Captain Matthew Marron about a grab made on August 28, 2023* 12:04p* Confirmed entrapment by dispatch* 6 unit apartment building* Chief arrived in POV (neighboring district and assigned to search)* Viz 1-2' not hot* 350-400lbs slippery and found in bathtub in bathroom (phone on and glowing-open line)* Chief found vict, called for help and RIT pack (unable to lift pt out by himself)* 25' distance from vict to door
Grabs 123 Asheville, NC (November 3, 2023)* Grant speaks with Captain Hayne Griffin about a grab they made on November 3, 2023.* 5:15A* Residential fire, known address (Duplex), with potential victims (Dispatch info)* BC first to arrive* Heavy fire from attic and living space, bystander confirmed entrapment* Hydrant in from of bldg* Door open, unidirectional flow in, since it was vented already. Saw smoke lift.* Shut line down early to help with search (Thermal inversion, glow)* Victim (150lbs) face down in bathroom between tub and toilet.* Crew yoked the vict real quick.* Victim breathing outside and crew began to give aid, then passed off to another crew* In and out in 60 seconds. * Radio clicks* Being familiar with your buildings* Victim pt care after removal.
Show notes from Jason:The One Man Show.The 2 person engine.Heavy fire main floor.P.D. on scene reports single story with occupant trapped in bedroom.Face To Face with husband who escaped with facial burns states wife is on second floor, through the fire room.One man show inside.Fire attack.Search in hoarder conditions.Victim removal.Congested radio traffic.Continued fire attack.Master the basics to where you can perform the basics alone, instinctually.Be prepared to do it yourself.Learn, Learn, Learn.Train, Train, Train.Sets N Reps, Sets N Reps,Sets N Reps.Link to local news article about the rescue and medal Jason got from his fellow firefightershttps://www.indianola-ia.com/news/firefighter-receives-medal-for-saving-woman-from-indianola-house-fire-last-fall/article_da40e3bc-0064-11ed-a44d-ef4936310b19.html
Grabs 121 Whitfield County Fire, GA (January 28, 2022)LT Justin HutchersonGrant speaks with Justin about a grab they made on January 28, 2022.13:40 structure with with victim trapped. Call made by victim who was trapped.2 person engine (Engine 5-outlying station)2 other closest rigs out of area training (alone for 15-20 min)13:48 arrivalTrailer park, speed bumps and no hydrantsSingle wide trailer, Kitchen fire, victim trapped on the floorKitchen window broke at arrivalRescue mode upon arrival, 5-6 neighbors met rig upon arrival.Lt made entry upon arrival while engineer donned pack, left door openCalled out for victim, victim answered allowing LT to go right to him.Door closed and disoriented the Lt a little but bought time.Dirty drag, under armpits, kept vict low to ground (Like a row), then bearhug.350 lb vict, 15-20 feet from doorEngineer came in and helped at the door and got him to porchArrival to removal 3:17, Entry to removal 2:15From porch to driveway used webbing.Did pt care and then incoming units take care of the fire.
Dispatched at 0535 on December 10th, 2022. Call reporting fully engulfed home- Unsure if anyone is home.Initial report states the neighbor thinks the caller is not home as she was supposed to be staying at a local hotel for sons birthday party. First two units arrive on scene and begin an attack and search. Basement door was found to be open and the basement searched first with nothing found. Search crew moved to 1st division through removal of a sliding glass door on C-side and extinguished additional fire. Line abandoned and search conducted of kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and finally the second bedroom. Victim found laying on the floor between the bed and wall with a window directly above her in moderate visibility. Bed moved onto its side to create space, window opened, victim moved to seated position and then hoisted to window sill where arms were handed out to exterior firefighters/awaiting crew at which time interior crews repositioned to victims legs and hoisted victim the rest of the way out the window. Tactical pause taken and primary search of bedroom completed. Victim removed 1:39 after being found. Victim survived with smoke inhalation and burns to left leg requiring multiple surgeries but expected to make full recovery. Here is a link to the Youtube video showing images and audio. https://youtu.be/9akiLSxEyx8?si=DFIMra9KC-Ne4o_E
Grabs 119 Portables Fire Department, NM (April 13, 2022)Grant speaks with Zant Zomora about a grab his crew made on April 13, 2022.Rural dept. 6-8 manning, 1 station.Dispatched for house fire, while enroute updated victim inside.Mobile home, fire from A-D side.Winds at 38 MPHFF on nozzle and LT searchedHeavy smoke, moderate heatLT found vict while FF putting water on the fire.Leg drag and other FF leads them out.180 lbs approx.Passed victim off
Grabs 118 Sac Metro, Ca (September 26, 2023)Jason Baldwin (Engineer Paramedic)Disp at 349 Commercial Structure (Multi Family)Upon arrival disp advised possible person trapped.2 story alcove apartment fire, fire showing first floor.All in for search (split)First two units checked (Relatively clear of smoke) then moved down to fire floor. Bad viz.Vict behind closed door (Clear 12-15” at floor). Vict on bed (feet presented first)Got vict to floor on back, leg drag 5'5” 120lbs) went out front door 10'“Lead me out” when partners came to help.On scene to vict out 7 min.
Grabs 117 Buckhannon Fire, West Virginia (November 27, 2021)Captain Joey Baxa6:57A-at shift change (extra people)“Fully Involved” one block away from station-initial report1/2 way to scene notified of “entrapment”3 patients out and grandma in back bedroom first floor-EMS reportSplit crew-search/attackInitial deck gun then followed up with 2” line.Heat spike until line came in and started flowing.First floor clear, crew made way to second floor-radio from outside that someone came out a window onto porch roof.Crew found conscious vict on porch roof.Ground ladder-thrown got energized, bucket from ladder truck was as well.Capt jumped into bucket, vict reached out and got shocked.Assisted by other members had to bring vict through house.
Grabs 116 Cobb County, GA (July 26, 2023)Kyle Williams530 AConfirmed 3 victims, multiple calls, Met by an occupantSquad VES on Delta Side, Truck Assigned search, Engine Through A side.First vict located in hallway, 14 y/o 100lbs, window removal, Passed victim off.Squad found large victim in bathroom. 300 lbs, wet, high window, hoarder conditions.3rd victim found and removed via window.
Grabs 115 Tamarac, FL (April 27, 2023)Alex SeamanSecond fire of the shiftFirst shift as officer3 story interior hallway apartment complex (Apt 202)First engine investigatesSecond engine water supply3rd engine to first line based on coming in opposite of other unitsHallway smoke banked down to knee levelMetro load placed on small landing was a problem.Victim located at kitchen when crew located fire.Met up with another crew-split crew and removed victim.Headfirst dragPassed off victimDisp-2317, Arriv-2323, 3rd 2326, Vict Located 2330, FO 2332, Vict out 2333
Grabs 114 Spartanburg, SC (July 24, 2022)Capt Jared Van Ek3:44 AM2 miles from stationResidential House Fire (1200 SQFT)Fire showing from AD CornerNeighbor said if truck was there, occupant was home2nd Due Engine-Assisted with Attack, Officer did 360, then once knock down, crew broke off to search.Viz-at knee levelVict on Floor of bedroom, head toward door. Not much room to work with, had to move vict over bed.15' to front door, additional crews arrived to assist.Vict 5'9” 200lbs, clothed.
Grabs 113 Houston, TX (Jan 19, 2023)Capt Paul RichardsonNear Grab with Lessons2 story Apartments-Not much showingMet in courtyard by neighbor reporting person trapped.Told Crew where she sleepsHeavy smoke visible nowBystanders broke out window and started spraying waterDebris in window (VES not best option)Search from front doorWent straight to bedroom where they were told vict was.Heavy clutter, searched and couldn't find victimAfter second search in that room L4 found deceased victim in from room
Capt Paul Richardson10-12 Blocks from stationSmall 2 story garden style apartmentSmoke coming out of first floor end unit (small 2 bedroom apartments)Ambulance reported person in the unit.Searching from first due rigCapt search ahead of lineLow viz, not hotCluttered conditionsSmall vict on back under table2 person drag out to front doorDisp to arrival 4 min, arrival to vict out 3-4 min.
* Grabs 111 Cadillac, MI (September 29, 2020) * Dale Hall * Limited Staffing * Disp 925, Arrival 929 Vict Out 937 * Small House Fire * Told by neighbor that it's occupied * 12” visibility * On floor supine * 150 lbs/Unconscious Man * Once passed off vict went back in to finish. * 2 person drag to front door * Searched off Hose
* Grabs 110 Wichita Fire, KS (May 3, 2023) * Isaac Frazier * R1 out of position in different zone * Working House Fire with Fire Showing * Initially told no one inside X 2 * Told by brother that someone is trapped in basement and on the phone * OV's make entry C-side * Victim Removal-Protect In Place * Look for items to shield victim/keep her low * Use body of FF to shield victim upon removal
Grabs 108 Klein Fire, TX (March 19 2023)Gentry O'Connor1 story residentialNo reports of victimsFrom outside looked like abandoned homeD-18:37 A-18:41 Vict found 18:44 Out at 18:45Zero vizHeard victim yelling for help.Skylights failed and conditions went from zero viz to heavy fire.Vict found in kitchenSingle person dragDifficulty finding exit that would work-tried to go out through garage-garage was still closed.FF noticed power was still on and hit garage door button and it workedTripped over bricks on way out. Handed off victim and then went back in to be with nozzle FF.Vict 220 lbs, FF Combat Challenge style drag
* Grabs 107 Springfield Twp Fire, Ohio (April 9, 2023) * BC Andrew Sauder * 1p * Apartment Fire-Came in as grease fire * First Due BC * Report of people trapped on Second FL * Victs on A (Police report C also-False) * T51-Ladder Rescue * 1 Engine on Attack, and 3 Engines assisting search.