Katonah Fire Department

Cpt. J. Waful and Lt. J. Hirschberg demonstrate different packaging techniques

Lt. J. Hirschberg and Cpt. J. Waful preparing to demonstrate how to move a downed firefighter. (Downed FF: Probationary Firefighter Billy Pappas)

Cpt. J. Waful and Lt. J. Hirschberg demonstrate different techniques on dragging a downed firefighter. (Downed FF: Probationary Firefighter Billy Pappas)

Firefighter Brian Cohen and Probationary Firefighter Julia Smith package and drag the downed firefighter (FF Ben Barone).

First Assistant Chief Dean Pappas goes to work as Second Assistant Chief Jose Corsino awaits his turn.

Lt. J. Hirschberg, Chief Engineer Alex Whalen, and Cpt. J. Waful standing by before demonstrating how to hoist a downed firefighter up a stairwell.

Cpt. J. Waful hoisting FF Ben Barone up a stairwell simulating a firefighter down in a basement.

Lt. J. Hirschberg watches as firefighters approach the second floor.

Firefighter Brian Cohen and Probationary Firefighter Julia Smith package Probationary Firefighter Jack DeAlto before hoisting him up the stairwell.

First Assistant Chief Dean Pappas and Probationary Firefighter Jack DeAlto carrying Probationary Firefighter Julia Smith up the stairwell.


By Cpt. J. Waful
June 30, 2014

One of the worst situations a firefighter could face is when they need to rescue one of their own. Last Monday, we performed a drill to prepare our members on how to rescue a downed firefighter. In the beginning of the drill, we reviewed how to "package" a firefighter using their SCBA Pack. After our members performed several evolution's, we moved into our training tower and reviewed hoisting a downed firefighter up a flight of stairs. The skills reviewed are essential for firefighters to know so they can act on a situation if it were to ever occur. The drill was a success and we will continue to train on this topic to enhance our knowledge.