Overhaul-Dont Let Your Guard Down

Overhaul, The true hard work of any firefighting operation. This is the part of the job that is always overlooked but by far is the phase of the fireground operations that is the most physically demanding. We all want to be on the nozzle, that initial fire attack phase as well as the extinguishment phase is where most of our focus on training is. It's that overhaul phase where it is easy to let your guard down. When you analyze statistical data related to fireground injuries, more injuries occur during the overhaul phase of a fireground operations than any other phase. The adrenaline rush of first arriving on the scene of a working fire helps get you through that initial phase of operation, but when the fire gets knocked down and the adrenaline rush is over as you come out of the structure to take a break you then look up at the structure and think about all the hard work that is ahead of you as you prepare to go back in with the shovels, cans, lights and tools to start the overhaul phase. It's easy to let your guard down during this phase, what can happen the fire is out, were just going in to check for hot-spots and haul out all the burned furniture and debris, shovel up all that dreaded cellulose insulation that we all love and carry it out. Now when all that hard work is done you come out and look at all that hose lying all over the place that needs to get picked up. When you sit and think about it, its easy to understand why more injuries occur during the overhaul phase, your tired, wet, it could be very cold out or very hot depending on the time of year. Having an opportunity to bring in fresh crews during this phase can make a difference in helping eliminate those injuries or a potential firefighter illness. Crews may have already had a very busy day or already had a previous fire during their shift. Bringing in fresh crews who may have not been as busy during the shift is firefighters looking after firefighters. I know its not the most desired thing to be called in to relieve at a fire to just do overhaul and clean-up, but when you think of the injury data and the fact you have to consider health and wellness of those tired firefighters, it could make a difference.

Here is a quote from Deputy Chief Vincent Dunn-Retired FDNY:

After a working fire, chiefs, company officers, and firefighters are exposed to many physical discomforts. They may be soaking wet, freezing cold, have headaches, and be exhausted from the exertion of firefighting. There may be emotional discomforts as well. They may be frustrated or angered by events surrounding the fire, the strategy, the tactics, or because one or more of their comrades have been injured. Discomforts and emotions in the aftermath of firefighting can interfere with decision making during salvage and overhauling. Time becomes more important than looking for smoldering embers. Everyone subconsciously wants to return to the firehouse for dry clothes, a meal, and some rest. "Get it done and let's get back to quarters" can often be heard during overhauling

Firefighter Close Call during the Overhaul phase

Overhaul Training Video by our Brothers from the Washington Township FD, Lucas County OH