1 Window Blanket 2 Sets forcible entry tools including a Rabbit Tool/Hydra Ram 2 Six foot hooks

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1 1. EQUIPMENT 2. USE 1 Window Blanket 2 Sets forcible entry tools including a Rabbit Tool/Hydra Ram 2 Six foot hooks 2.1 The fire window blanket is deployed from the floor above the fire. 2.2 To cover a fire-vented window where the wind is blowing fire back into the fire occupancy. With the door to the fire occupancy open, this condition makes it very difficult to advance toward the fire occupancy. Once the blanket is in place, the negative effects of the wind on the fire will be diminished, allowing members to advance a handline into the fire area as directed by the Incident Commander. Testing conducted by the FDNY and NIST showed an immediate 50% decrease in temperatures and significant reduction in flame production when the fire window blanket is properly deployed. 2.3 The fire window blanket may be used as pre-deployment option to cover a window prior to it failing in order to prevent a wind-driven fire. 3. OPERATION Members A, B and C operate on the floor above the fire. Members D and E operate on the floor below the fire. 3.1 Members bring blanket to apartment directly above the fire apartment on windward side. 3.2 Member B: Identifies target window and places blanket on the floor in the apartment directly above the fire apartment. (Photo 1) 1

2 Photo Notifies IC that the target window has been identified and is preparing the blanket for deployment Opens window, removes child guards, window gates, etc. Firefighters deploying the blanket from a window above the fire apartment must not remove the window to deploy the blanket unless absolutely necessary. In the event conditions change and the wind shifts or momentarily diminishes in gusting conditions, the fire could auto-expose to the apartment above. With the window left in place, simply closing the window will prevent any immediate auto exposure. If window must be removed, safety precautions must be in place to protect members from fire extension. 3.3 Members A and C Identify adjoining windows, open windows and remove child guards, window gates, etc. Removal of window is seldom required from a position above the fire, only remove window if absolutely necessary for deployment of blanket Members A and C place 6 ft hooks on windowsill perpendicular to the building. (Photo 2) 2

3 Photo Member B throws corresponding straps to Members A and C (Photos 2 and 3). In order to assist the flight of straps, members may: Place a carabineer in the handle of the strap Attach a utility rope to the handle Attach strap to 6 hook and pass the hook to the other member Photo Members A and C using 6 ft hooks pull straps into apartment window, remove slack and secure by placing their foot on the strap. 3.6 Member B places foot on handle of strap leaving slack at the base of the window. 3

4 Photo Upon approval of IC and after checking that members A and C have a secured their straps, Member B throws blanket away from the building (Photo 4). Photo Members D and E gain control of bottom straps. Members A, B, and C will raise or lower straps so the blanket completely covers the target window. (Photo 5) When the blanket is properly positioned, all members shall secure their straps. 3.9 Notify the IC that the fire window blanket is properly positioned and secured. 4

5 4. OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS 4.1 Any unit or units may be used to deploy the blanket. 4.2 The IC shall designate a spotter to observe the deployment of the blanket from the exterior. The spotter shall monitor the deployment and effect of the fire window blanket on the fire situation and report the results including any changes in fire conditions to the IC. The spotter should be equipped with a handi-talkie, and binoculars obtained from the battalion vehicle. 4.3 Due to the length of the top supporting straps, the blanket can be lowered from two floors above if the IC deems this necessary. 4.4 Just before the blanket is put in place, the IC must make a handi-talkie announcement to all units. All units must be instructed to report any adverse conditions caused by the blanket being put in place. 4.5 The blanket is large enough to cover two windows if necessary. The bottom of the blanket is weighted to facilitate positioning. 5