By Freddie LaFemina
FDNY Battalion Chief

The nozzle firefighter is in a position during the attack of the fire that could change the whole complexion of the operation. There is nothing more important than getting the initial hose line in position, charged, and ready to attack the red devil. Nozzle firefighters receive double the amount of burns of all other firefighter positions on the fire ground. Their burns usually occur in the head and/or neck area, wrist area and the knees.

Tip: To minimize potential burns, the nozzle firefighter should make sure all his their personal protective equipment (PPE) is donned properly. Have your coat buckle fully closed, collar up and hood on with the helmet ear flaps down. Make sure your gloves are securely on and covering any exposed skin areas. Do not enter the fire area without water. When you have water in the line with sufficient pressure, you can start your attack on the fire.

Hit the fire from the door way and move in as fast as possible because the door area acts as a flue for the fire. Direct the stream at the ceiling and overhead areas first before advancing, and be sure to sweep the floor in front of you. Sweeping the floor before you move in will cool down the materials from above as well as the runoff water cascading down the walls. If possible, duck walk to avoid burns to the knees. And remember, keep the line operating as your advancing on the fire — this will extinguish visible fire while cooling down the area.