Roanoke City is currently rolling out a multi-stage ladder operations class to give firefighters the opportunity for hands on learning. The first stage of the class focused on forcible entry utilizing a new forcible entry trailer. The trailer was built and is still being customized by Roanoke City Lieutenant Mark Brown (5-C). Features of the trailer include two variations of forcing a door, a glass door for using the K-tool, a mock up for roll-up garage doors, and a pitched roof for ventilation practices. Best of all the trailer can be moved around from station to station for individual company level training in the future.

Along with the trailer, firefighters were given the chance to use some other tools for forcible entry. These tools include an acetylene torch, a new ajax air hammer, a new evolution metal cutting circular saw, and handheld rebar cutter. I must say that the evolution metal cutting saw was simply amazing. This saw easily cut through 11/2″ steel.

The photos included are of E13, L13, and E8 with instructors from E1. Story and Photos by Rhett Fleitz