[Scan-DC] Fire Department Response-Electrical Accident

[Todd Sniffin]

John;

Greg is correct.  The FD does not have "ways of getting the power off if the
need to", otherwise calls to Pepco (or local electric utility) would not be
necessary.  I'm not sure what you learned in EMT class, but the only two
methods the FD in this area were taught to remove power was pulling the
meter if it was a house fire, or using "pepco ropes" (nylon rope with wooden
handles on each end-used to slide under the downed line and move it off/away
from the patient.)  Both methods are no longer allowed or taught.   Most
apparatus do carry "hot sticks", used to detect the presence of electricity,
but waiting for the utility to arrive on the scene and confirm power is off
is the norm-even when life is in danger.

As for the the utility's response time, that's pretty standard too.  During
off hours there are only a few troubleshooter crews on duty.  A 15-30 minute
response is the norm.  They don't have lights or siren and can't get from
Point A to Point B any faster  (-;

Todd

---------- Forwarded message ----------
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: JOHN ANTONELLI <johnantonelli at verizon.net>
To: yorkfd at juno.com
Date: Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:22:42 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: [Scan-DC] Arlington responding to electrocution of two
You are correct re ther fact tht tey are to assume they are charged but the
FD does have ways of getting the power off if they need to or to get the
person out if tey need to.  Heck they taught us how to do it in EMT class.
The fact that ACFD is not doing that tells he is DRT and that was the
purpose of my post.