July 09, 2012

Waldo Canyon Fire Video from Colorado Springs FD

The Colorado Springs Fire Department has put together this video on what happened when the Waldo Canyon Fire entered neighborhoods on the city's northwest side.

You can see triage as it is happening—what gets defended, what does not.

You also see wildland firefighters in their lightweight clothing (Nomex or Kevlar trousers, cotton T-shirt, Nomex shirt, plastic hard hat) working next to structure fires, which meant they were really getting broiled.

By comparison typical structure-fire gear includes more insulation and often a reflective Mylar layer. It is designed to block heat, but you pay a price in weight, less mobility, and sweat.

(With thanks to Rowan M.)

1 comment:

Darrell said...

Thanks for sharing that.