Pound Ice-Snow Mix Trapped Firefighter

AFD: 6,000

March 12, 2012|By Matthew Simon | Channel 2 News

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — A rare mayday call went out after a 6,000 pound ice-snow mix collapsed on an Anchorage firefighter fighting a deck fire Sunday, according to the Anchorage Fire Department.

“From the time the mayday was called, to when he was actually extracted, was about 12 minutes,” says AFD Deputy Chief Chris Bushue.

Bushue says the routine call came into a three member crew from Station 14, off Campbell Airstrip Rd.

"Over doing some training,” Bushue says. “Heard the call for fire. Could see some smoke in the air. So they knew they had what we call a working fire."

Soon after the crew arrived at 3007 Campbell Airstrip Rd., the engineer pumped water from the truck, while the captain and firefighter quickly extinguished the blaze inside the home.

"The two firefighters (then) realize there was more fire on the exterior deck area," Bushue says.

On his hands and knees, Bushue says the firefighter stayed on the deck when he heard a creaking sound.

“But he couldn't get out of the area quick enough,” Bushue says.

His captain, on his way to get the firefighter more hose, reportedly also heard the noise.

“And he knew there had been a collapse,” Bushue says. “It happens sometimes. He wasn't overly concerned. But then he didn't hear anything. And then it was just silence.”

Silence, Bushue says, quickly turned into his captain's mayday call. Upwards of 30 firefighters responded. Some continued fighting the fire, while others helped remove ice-snow mix crushing the firefighter.

“He tried to get to his radio to call for help,” Bushue says. “But couldn't physically take a deep enough breath to call for help.”

After 12 minutes, which included using a chainsaw and hydraulic rams, Bushue says they were able to free the firefighter.

The extreme event emphasizes snow problems this record breaking winter has meant for the Anchorage Fire Department, which have also included other building collapses and blocked hydrants. However, Bushue says residents shoveling their roofs will not help them avoid scenes like the one Sunday. Instead, he says, that should be left to the professionals.

"We don't recommend people get up there, because that's when they get in trouble," Bushue says.

The Anchorage Fire Department has not released the firefighter’s identity. His recovery continues at a local hospital where he has reportedly had around-the-clock fire department visitors. Bushue says he should soon be released.

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