Collapse Operations for First Responders

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 and safety precautions
* Collapse patterns and causes of collapse
* Building construction related to building failure
* Initial response
* Surface and void search operations
* Shoring operations overview
* Personnel uses and training
* Tools and equipment
* Rigging basics and working with heavy equipment
* Concrete operations
* Incident command
* Glossary