The Hibbing Fire Department, in cooperation with the Keewatin and Nashwauk fire departments, recently conducted a 12 hour firefighter rescue series course. The firefighter rescue training, sometimes referred to as Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) training, consisted of a three class program, with each fire department hosting a night training session. “It is paramount for fire departments and their mutual aid counterparts to learn about and practice firefighter rescue skills,” said Hibbing Training Officer Tom Kriske and Hibbing Fire Captain Chris Petrack. “Firefighter rescue is an important skill not only reserved for dedicated RIT groups, but for all members of fire departments. Firefighter rescues can arise for any number of problems encountered on the fireground, and can sometimes arise before a dedicated RIT is set up and operating.”
The successful rescue of a “downed” firefighter is the result of several concurrent actions. The process is started by firefighters quickly recognizing a dangerous situation and effectively calling a “Mayday.” The command staff then needs to be able to react to the mayday by gaining accountability of the staff on scene, clearly identify and initiate directives to operational staff and recognizing the logistical needs at the scene. All of this occurs while fire suppression activities are continuing. The firefighter rescue effort includes the prompt deployment of tactical rescue priorities; like searching, locating and bringing air to the downed firefighter. The rescue process ends when firefighters successfully complete rescue tactics and ultimately remove the downed firefighter from the hazard zone.
The Hibbing Fire Department plans to host more firefighter rescue sessions for the other mutual aid departments in the area.
Firefighters participate in RIT training conducted by the Hibbing Fire Department.
Photo submitted by the Hibbing Fire Department.