On Monday night March 24, members practiced self-rescue from an interior space by way of wall breaching. The drill was conducted using a former press box at the Townships' Red Caboose Park softball field, which is scheduled for demolition.

Wall breaching is one of those "last resort" evolutions which can be employed when all other ways into or out of an enclosed space such as a room or small building are blocked. It involves removal of the wall covering and squeezing between studs to get into a relatively safer space or outside. In many buildings, getting from room to room requires breaching drywall and either wood or metal studs. It's a little more complicated when breaching an exterior wall made of plywood (such as was the case with the press box) or masonry. Once the covering is removed, the firefighter must wedge between the studs which are generally 18"-24" apart. This may require cutting or breaking thru pipes, cables or wiring frequently found in these spaces.

Having access to "real-world" spaces such as the press box is invaluable as it gives a true sense of conditions to be encountered. Earlier in the day, shift personnel also practiced ladders and bail out evolutions in the building as well. All shifts will have an opportunity to work in the space. Our thanks go to the Township Parks and Rec folks for making the space available.