Training for high-risk, low-frequency events

Many years ago I attended a seminar by Gordon Graham, a retired law enforcement officer that has branched out to public speaking mainly about risk management. His high-risk, low frequency message stuck with me all these years. There have been several training sessions and situational awareness classes that I have designed using this message. Last night was one of those sessions.

Graafschap Firefighters were fortunate enough to be able to use a donated structure to practice and train. Previously at this same house, fire crews conducted search and rescue, ventilation, and other non-destructive evolutions. Last night, we made use of the house to perform some rarely needed skills, but when called upon they must be done quickly and safely.

The first evolution was roof ventilation. This tactic relieves a structure of heat and smoke, allowing the hose and search teams better conditions. This also can increase the survivability chances of any civilians still inside. Coordination with command and the interior crews is a must.

The second evolution was turning any window opening into a doorway. This tactic is for emergency egress to remove a victim or a downed firefighter through the most direct route.

Sometimes it is more work and takes longer to find an actual doorway. This technique is fast and not pretty, but it save precious time during a victim removal.

Firefighting is one of many things we do for public safety. It is the also most dangerous. The low-frequency events at those fires are the ones that pose the most risk. Training as a team teaches us all technique and builds trust in each other. This translates to a better fire department and better service to the public we protect.