By Anthony Avillo
It seems that we have recently been plagued by a rash of line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) and close calls involving lightweight construction, namely lightweight wood truss. Over the years as well as recently, the fire service has certainly had its share of casualties in this type of construction. Because of these casualties, we have researched, analyzed, evaluated, and disseminated a great deal of solid information with regard to the dangers of lightweight construction. Unfortunately, that information is not being heeded as often as it should be, which is all the time!
Fire service personnel must understand that lightweight construction has always been, still is, and will continue to be a firefighter killer if we fail to respect its limitations. We must further understand that lightweight construction changes the rules of the game with regard to direct engagement with the beast. We simply cannot fight fires in these buildings with the same aggressiveness and “comfort” we had in older, more solidly built wood structures. All officers must understand this indisputable fact.
If you are a current subscriber,login hereto access this content.
If you would like to become a subscriber, please visit ushere.
