Township firefighters train for ‘forced’ entry emergencies

Northville Township firefighters took time to review
emergency entry techniques last week to ensure
rapid access to blocked or locked buildings.

They weren't “forced” into the training, but both the newest members of  the Northville Township Fire Department, along with a few of the oldest, attended special training recently.

The firefighters completed forcible entry (FE) training, the technique used by emergency responders to gain access to a structure where normal means of access is locked, blocked or nonexistent.  Entry could be a door, window or wall, officials said, and depending on the urgency and other factors in a response call, firefighters' often have to determine the level of destruction required. If more time is available, some techniques known as “through the lock” can be used to limit damage to property, officials added.

The importance of the forcible entry techniques is clear when it becomes necessary, a spokesman explained. Firefighters need to be confident and proficient with forcible entry techniques because of the nature of the incidents that require use. If urgent entry is required, it is typically for a structure fire or medical emergency with life safety implications, he added.

“When time is life, these skills are essential,” he added.

Conversely, he noted, property conservation is also a priority of the responders, after life safety. Whenever possible, destruction is limited. 

Northville Township fire engines carry a spectrum of forcible entry tools; light, medium, and heavy duty along with smaller tools used to manipulate locking and latching mechanisms, to aid entry in case of emergency response.