| Potsdam Fire with cooperation from SUNY Potsdam officials conducted their monthly training drill, simulating a high rise dormitory fire in Bowman Hall on the SUNY Potsdam campus. In September of 2003, Potsdam firefighters battled a high rise blaze in the Bowman Hall dormitory on the SUNY Potsdam campus. This drill was being conducted to allow the Potsdam Fire Department to become familiar with the various high rise buildings on the SUNY Potsdam campus and to improve the response to high rise fires.
Over 45 firefighters and EMS personnel from Potsdam Fire, Canton Fire & Rescue, Norwood Fire, West Potsdam Fire, and West Stockholm Fire had an opportunity to enhance their skills with this drill. Many of the same firefighters and EMS personnel participating in this drill had also responded to the Bowman Hall incident. In addition, several new firefighters experienced high rise firefighting operations for the first time.
First arriving firefighters encountered smoke pushing from the windows on the 4th floor of Bowman Hall. Third Assistant Chief John Keleher established command and transmitted a working fire requesting mutual aid assistance. West Potsdam Fire Past Chief Bob Pierce and Potsdam Fire Past Chief Christopher Taylor led the first interior crews to the fire floor and units commenced search and rescue of the 4th floor.
First in Potsdam firefighters reported heavy smoke conditions on the 4th floor. University Police advised they were receiving reports of multiple occupants unaccounted for. Within minutes, three victims played by Potsdam firefighters, were located and removed to safety by the interior crews. The "victims" were evaluated by members of Canton Rescue. A rehab area was established by Canton Rescue and all firefighters were hydrated and monitored after completing their assignments. Potsdam Fire's new Tempest 21" variable speed positive pressure fan was utilized in the rehab area.
Overall, the training drill was a success. The newly installed Knox Box system provided an adequate number of keys so firefighters could quickly access and search the dorms rooms while preventing unnecessary damage.
The Potsdam Fire Department would like to thank all of the participating fire and rescue personnel. Your commitment to training and improving operations should be commended. A special THANK YOU to SUNY Potsdam for providing the facility and recognizing the need for continued fire safety training. |
