The Blackstone, VA FD was dispatched to a reported structure fire with smoke showing from the third floor window. Engine 5 arrived on location at side Alpha of the structure to establish a water supply and begin fire attack. Truck 9 also came to Alpha side to set-up for ventilation. Initial investigation found fire in division 3 with visibility down to floor level. Two 1 1¾ hoses were placed in service for attack from ground level as a standpipe was unavailable. Firefighters were in place on the landing to assist with maneuvering hoses. As the initial crew was making entry into the fire room, when one of the members attempted to re-position himself and fell off of the third floor landing, through the temporary railing on the second floor and down to the first floor in a headfirst position. Mayday was called the firefighter was removed for the structure by interior personnel who were assisting with hose movement. EMS was on location and placed in service as soon as the firefighter was outside. Treatment was given and med-flight was called due to injuries. Post fire investigation found that the railings had been removed from most of the stairways including the stairs leading to and third floor landing. On broken bones were sustained as a result of the fall. The firefighter is currently reseting at home.
Lessons learned include the importance of crew integrity, lack of proper equipment, lack of situational awareness. Suggestions to prevent similar events include (1) be sure the initial crew has a TIC to assist with visualizing building character, and (2) a local building inspector might have corrected safety issues within the structure before the incident.
