Denver Drill Window

The FireVent Denver Drill Window is a very heavy duty modular unit, that consists of four main panels (front panel, 2 side panels and floor). Also included are the bolt in place fixed ladder, 4 removable jack casters, and 2 observation steps.

The FireVent Denver Drill Window is designed after the actual dimensions of the confined area that claimed 16 year veteran Firefighter Mark Langvardt’s life in 1992. Specifically, it is a “hallway” 28 inches wide, 8 feet long with a window at one end that is 20 inches wide by 28 inches high and a sill that is 42 inches from the floor.

The Denver Drill is a vital training exercise for firefighters to practice rescuing an incapacitated or trapped colleague from a tight, confined space through and elevated window.

Performing the Denver Drill:

• Rapid Intervention: It is performed by a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT)—the specialized crew standing by at a fire scene strictly to rescue other firefighters.
• Window Entry: The first rescuer enters the tight space headfirst through a high window, using proper body mechanics and leverage to reach and stabilize the downed firefighter.
• Lifting and Positioning: Rescuers manipulate the victim’s body and gear (such as adjusting the self-contained breathing apparatus straps) to lift the firefighter onto a rescuer’s knees or shoulders.
• Extraction: Team members coordinate commands to push and pull the downed firefighter up and out of the window opening to safety.