Ladder Escape – Hook 2 / Slide to 4 Training drill focuses on practicing building escapes using a ladder, simulating real-life emergency scenarios.
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.
- Ensure appropriate anchor points for the fall protection system are in place.
- Secure and stabilize an additional ladder for the instructor.
Pre-training Instructions
- Explain Objectives: Discuss the drill’s purpose and expected outcomes with participants.
- Review Safety Precautions: Ensure all safety measures are understood by participants.
- Course Details: Show the starting and ending points of the drill.
- Increase Complexity: Simulate low visibility or complete darkness as needed.
- Verify PPE: Ensure all participants are fully equipped with appropriate protective gear.
- Check Fall Protection: Confirm all personnel are securely attached to the fall protection system.
- Final Safety Check: Conduct a thorough inspection before starting the drill.
Ladder Escape – Hook 2 / Slide to 4 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: Enhance 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. Secure Hand Placement
- Place both hands on the ladder beams (rails), not the rungs.
9. Hook with One Arm
- Make a fist with one hand and hook your arm under the second rung. Do not grip the rung directly.
10. Lock Your Arm
- Secure your arm’s inner elbow around the second rung.
11. Slide the Opposite Hand
- Move your free hand down to the fourth rung and grip the opposite beam.
12. Prepare to Shift Weight
- Bend your knees and tilt your body.
13. Pivot and Swing
- Use your hooked arm (second rung) and gripping hand (fourth rung) as pivot points.
- Swing your body out and over the window frame.
14. Descend Quickly
- Move down the ladder swiftly but safely.
15. Clear the Ladder
- Step away from the base of the ladder to allow other firefighters to escape.
Ladder Escape – Hook 2 / Slide to 4 Training Key Takeaways
This training helps firefighters master ladder escape techniques for emergencies, ensuring swift and safe exits. Regular practice builds confidence and improves response times during real-life scenarios. Always prioritize safety and follow each step carefully.
References National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)