Popular instructor and FDNY battalion chief shares his thoughts on Facebook.
The following is from John Salka offering his thoughts on "Transitional Attack" in a Facebook group.
"First, I know you might be able to get an engine FF to direct his nozzle into a window of fire, but I don't know if you can get him to walk away (Stop)."
"Second, I'm told a second hoseline is stretched to the entrance door and the interior attack is commenced following the application of water into the window from the first line. This is also nonsense! We can't even get enough people on scene to have a two person search team enter ahead of the line to find the fire, but we have enough FF to stretch two lines."
"Third, The nozzle must be kept stationary (not moved or rotated) while it is being directed into the window. Sure! The nozzle FF is going to open the nozzle (Straight stream only!!!) and hold it motionless pointing at the ceiling."
"Do I need to list any more reasons that this "new" idea is nonsense?"
"Just pull an attack hoseline and get your butt in there!!!"
What does "Transitional Attack" mean to you?
Does it help if staffing is a problem in your department?
Can it be used to reduce injuries and control the fire until entry is made?
Catch up with Chief Salka this May at the 2012 Andy Fredericks Training Days and his presentation on "Fireground Responsibility"
Photo courtesy of Brian Slattery/FITHP.net with permission
Bill Carey is the daily news and blog manager for Elsevier Public Safety (FireRescue Magazine/Firefighter Nation, JEMS and LawOfficer sites.) Bill also manages the FireEMSBlogs.com network and is a former volunteer lieutenant with the Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department in Prince George's County, Maryland.
We encourage and support constructive dialogue and debate. View our comment policy.