Confined Space Rescues: How Does it Work?

FF James Lopez from Rescue 2 is lowered into a manhole during a confined space demonstration at the Fire Academy. He was assisted by Lt. Sean Parker from the Rescue Battalion, FF Eric Lynch from Squad 1, FF David Giardina from the Rescue Battalion and FF Mike Travers from Rescue 2.

As television, print and radio news reported two confined space rescues - on June 26 in Manhattan and June 29 in Queens - many New Yorkers were left asking how firefighters execute such complicated rescues.

So firefighters from the FDNY’s Special Operations Command on June 30 demonstrated a confined space rescue at the Fire Academy.

A confined space is defined as an area not designed for continual human occupancy and with limited access and egress. These include manholes, transformer vaults and subway emergency exits.

Battalion Chief James Yakimovich said the demonstration simulated a victim who was trapped down a 10 foot manhole.

Firefighters arriving at the scene would need to determine what caused the victim to collapse into the space. They need to be mindful of any dangers in and around the area, including risks of asphyxia, toxicity and explosives.

Firefighter James Lopez (in the manhole) helps Lt. Sean Parker remove the 'victim' during a simulated confined space rescue.

“We immediately assume it’s a toxic environment,” said Chief Yakimovich. “Our number one concern is safety, so we assume it’s contaminated until we learn it’s not.”

They determine the safest way to enter and exit the space, and determine how they will operate in the area, noting any obstacles they will need to overcome.

Firefighters set up a retrieval system, which includes a stand with a pulley, as well as a rope and a safety rope. Firefighters monitor air quality and wear air masks with surface supplied air as they lower a firefighter and stokes basket into the manhole.

The firefighter will package the victim and perform medical assistance, if needed, before they are pulled to safety. Depending on the size of the space, Chief Yakimovich said the victim will be pulled out prior to the FDNY member.

Chief Yakimovich used the demonstration to warn New Yorkers about the dangers of trying to rescue someone in a confined space. He said 60 percent of would-be rescuers become victims themselves because of their “inability to recognize the danger of the situation or their emotions just overwhelm them.”

He added: “Training is what allows [FDNY members] to be successful rescuers.”