Ladder Escape – Head First drill trains firefighters to safely escape headfirst from a structure using a ladder.

Overview

• Duration: 15 minutes
• Participants: 1 person
• Location: A training structure with a second-floor window (recommended window dimensions: at least 60 cm x 60 cm).
• Safety: Install a fall prevention system to ensure safety during the drill.

Required Equipment

• Full PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
• SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus)
• Two triple-extension ladders
• Confirm the training site is hazard-free.
• Verify appropriate anchors are in place for the fall protection system.
• Add and secure an instructor’s ladder for supervision.

Pre-training Instructions

1. Explain Objectives: Discuss the drill’s purpose and expected outcomes with participants.
2. Review Safety Precautions: Go over all safety measures with participants.
3. Course Details: Show the starting and ending points of the drill.
4. Increase Complexity: Simulate low visibility or complete darkness as needed.
5. Verify PPE: Ensure all participants are in full protective gear.
6. Check Fall Protection: Confirm all personnel are securely attached to the fall protection system.
7. Final Safety Check: Conduct a thorough inspection before starting.

Ladder Escape – Head First Training Steps

1. Issue a MAYDAY Call

• Simulate an emergency call to signal distress.

2. Personal Preparations

• Check Air Supply: Monitor and control remaining air levels.
• Turn On Flashlights: Improve visibility.
• Make Noise: Signal your location to others.
• Locate Exits: Identify windows, doors, or other escape routes.

3. Secure the Room

• Close the door to limit fire spread, if possible.

4. Locate the Window

• Identify the position of the window.

5. Move to the Window

• Crawl low to minimize exposure to heat and smoke.

6. Clear the Window

• Remove glass, curtains, or blinds, and push debris outward from the top of the frame.

7. Locate the Ladder

• Lean Out of the Window: Stay low as you begin exiting.
• Rest on the Window Frame: Position yourself to access the ladder.
• Get onto the Ladder: Begin transitioning to the ladder.

8. Grip the Ladder

• Stretch your hands out and grab the ladder beams (rails).
• Avoid wrapping your thumbs around the rungs.

9. Pull Your Body Up

• Use your arms to pull your body onto the ladder while staying low.

10. Exit the Window

• Move out in a crouched position.

11. Secure Your Position

• Reach for the next rung, aligning both hands on the same rung as you descend.

12. Transition Your Feet

• Once your feet are out of the window, hook your toes on the window frame to stabilize and move onto the ladder.

13. Continue Descending

• Reach for the next rungs, keeping both hands aligned as you descend.

14. Control Your Speed

• Use the rungs to control your descent speed safely.

15. Exit at the Bottom

• At the last rung, extend one arm below the rung to roll out.
  • Roll your body to the side.
  • Ensure your shoulder makes contact with the ground for a controlled landing.

16. Clear the Ladder

• Move away from the ladder base to allow others to escape.

Ladder Escape – Head First Key Takeaways

This training helps firefighters develop proficiency in headfirst ladder escapes, emphasizing speed, safety, and precision. Regular practice builds confidence and enhances real-life performance.

Reference page: This training focuses on teaching firefighters to safely navigate wire entanglements and remove SCBA in emergency situations, ensuring effective response during critical scenarios.

References　National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

Related posts:

Window Hang Training Instructions for Handling Fire Extinguishers Fire Protection Equipment (PPE) CBRNE Smoke Escape Using a Hose Line Fire Control Box Fire Hoods Door Control in Firefighting Pushing Fire: Understanding the Phenomenon and Its Implications Basic Knowledge for Door Forcible Entry: A Guide for Firefighters Basic Search Techniques for Firefighters: Primary Search