a firefighter wearing a mask and a helmet

Preventing the Preventable

Preventing the Preventable and Training for the Worst-Case Scenario

Preventing Mayday

Mayday Obstacles

Overview

In the high-risk environment of firefighting, being prepared for a mayday situation is critical to survival. ​ Mayday scenarios, such as being trapped, lost, or experiencing equipment failure, can occur unexpectedly, even to the most experienced firefighters. ​ Proper preparation, hands-on training, and protective measures are essential to ensure quick and effective responses during emergencies. ​ By practicing realistic scenarios, mastering air management techniques, and understanding when and how to call for help, firefighters can remain calm, focused, and increase their chances of survival in life-threatening situations. ​

Common obstacles during a mayday situation include:

  • Trapped: Being unable to move due to blocked exits or confined spaces.
  • Entangled: Getting caught in wires or debris, restricting movement.
  • Lost: Losing orientation or being unable to locate the crew or exit.
  • Collapse: Structural failure, such as falling debris or walls.
  • Fall: Falling through floors or roofs, leading to injury or disorientation.
  • Low Air Supply: Running out of air while not near an exit.
  • SCBA Malfunction: Equipment failure, reducing access to breathable air.

These obstacles highlight the importance of preparation, training, and calm decision-making during emergencies.  Realistic, hands-on training is key to successful outcomes in these situations.

Standards and Guidelines

  1. NFPA 1584: Standard on the Rehabilitation Process for Members During Emergency Operations and Training Exercises. ​ It highlights the importance of screening firefighters for smoke inhalation symptoms, which could indicate hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. ​ Immediate medical assessment is recommended for exposed firefighters. ​
  2. LUNAR Protocol: A communication guideline for transmitting mayday calls, which includes:
    • Location
    • Unit
    • Name and Nature of problem ​
    • Air Supply and Assignment ​
    • Resources needed
  3. Mayday Guidelines: Basic rules for when to call a mayday, including situations like medical emergencies, being trapped, falling through floors/roofs, building collapse, being lost, low air supply, SCBA malfunction, or any situation where the firefighter feels they are in trouble. ​
  4. Air Management Training: Emphasizes the importance of SCBA bottle pressure checks and efficient breathing techniques, such as the Counting Method and Reilly Emergency Breathing Technique (REBT), to extend air supply and improve survival chances. ​
  5. Practical Mayday Training: Hands-on training with five basic mayday scenarios (trapped, entangled, lost, collapse, fall) using props to simulate real-life situations. ​
  6. Radio Discipline: Ensures critical communication channels remain open during emergencies, with clear and concise mayday transmissions. ​

 

Cyanide and Fire smoke
Mayday

Protective Measures

Mayday Strategy & Tactics

In emergency situations, firefighters must take immediate and strategic actions to protect themselves while awaiting rescue. These actions are essential for ensuring their safety and increasing their chances of survival in hazardous environments.

  • Finding an Area of Refuge: In a hazardous situation, identifying and moving to a safe area can protect you from immediate dangers such as extreme heat, smoke, or structural collapse. This could be a clear space, behind a barrier, or a location with better air quality.
  • Activating the PASS Device: The Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) is a critical tool for alerting others to your location. Using it intermittently can help rescuers pinpoint your position without interfering with your ability to transmit a mayday call.
  • Monitoring Air Supply: Regularly checking your self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) air levels is essential. Managing your breathing and conserving air can significantly extend your survival time while awaiting rescue.
  • Assessing the Situation: Quickly evaluating your surroundings allows you to make informed decisions about your next steps. This includes identifying escape routes, potential hazards, or areas where rescue may be more accessible.

By taking these measures, firefighters can enhance their safety and increase their chances of survival while awaiting assistance.

Build a Culture of Accountability

Crew Support & Coordination

  • Cultivate a culture of accountability, encouraging team members to actively look out for each other and intervene if safety concerns arise.
    • Organize regular team-building exercises to strengthen relationships and improve mutual trust and communication.
  • Promote open communication about potential hazards, fostering an environment where all team members feel empowered to voice concerns without fear of reprisal.
    • Implement a near-miss reporting system to capture and learn from incidents that could have escalated into emergencies.
  • Clearly define roles and responsibilities within the team, ensuring that every member understands their specific duties and how they fit into the overall mission.
    • Use role-playing exercises to practice emergency protocols, reinforcing the importance of each role in preventing and responding to Maydays.

References

Related Resources

Firefighter Air Coalition