RAT COMPANY LADDER OPERATIONS

So you have been assigned as the RAT CO. at a structure fire. Do you just stand there in the front yard with no gear looking very bored? NO! You are to be a proactive RAT, and you will have plenty of work in the initial stages of the fire ground operations. I will just touch one aspect of what is to be expected of a pro-active RAT.

Ground Ladders:

Ground ladders; how does that make a fire ground safer? Ground ladders usually provide great access for companies attempting to enter the structure. But, ground ladders in RAT Mode will make essential paths of egress if needed. There are “Things to know”, about throwing ground ladders in the RAT Mode.

When:

Ground ladders should be thrown at every fire ground.

Where:

Priority is where majority of the interior fire fighters are at risk. At least one ground ladder per room. Also, thinking about 2nd means of egress for fire fighters operating on the roof. Once the high risk areas have been covered, you can then begin to cover the remainder of the structure.

How:

Ground ladders should be thrown around a 60 degree angle. The ground ladder tip should be place just below the window sill. This will assist you, if there is a need for fire fighter extrication. *** DO NOT BREAK GLASS*** This could complex fire ground operations. A fire fighter that needs out, can use their tools; or what ever means is necessary.

Securing the RAT ladder:

You can secure the ground ladders by using the halligan bar, webbing, rebar, and any ways you can safely secure the ladder.

Information:

Remember to inform your RAT Officer and the Incident Commander where you have thrown you RAT ladders. This information will come in handy when there is a true emergency.

Quick tips:

A pro-active RAT should be assigned to the initial alarm to ensure that RAT duties will be performed in a timely manner. We do not want to wait until a fellow fire fighter needed you to be there and you weren’t! Normally a RAT company will arrive last in the first alarm line-up. So, you might have to carry equipment up the block to get to where you are going. But, be smart about this. You don’t need to take your ladders; you can use any ground ladder from another company that is a lot closer. Do, everything you can to help the fire fighter in need self-rescue themselves, this is their best chance!

Posted By: Scott Brown