Collapse Operations for First Responders discusses in detail the common warning signs of structural collapse and what to do when they are encountered, providing a practical, hands-on approach to operating safely and effectively in collapse rescue situations.

Discussion is chiefly directed toward one of the most common types of structures around the country, wood and brick-and-joist (ordinary-constructed) buildings, known as URM (unreinforced masonry) construction.

Various types of shoring and cribbing techniques vital to collapse rescue operations, as well as void size-up, safety at collapse operations, tools used in voids, and void procedures are explored.

Collapse Operations for First Responders is a must-have resource for firefighters, officers, chiefs, and technical rescue response personnel.

Contents:

• Introduction
• Warning signs, causes, and safety precautions of building collapse
• Basic building construction related to building failure
• Initial emergency response
• Collapse patterns and void search operations
• Shoring operations: An overview
• Rescue personnel uses and training criteria
• Tools and equipment needed for structural collapse operations
• Glossary
• Index

206 Pages/Hardcover/8.5x11/November 2011
ISBN10 1-59370-263-9