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Rapid Intervention training should not just be limited to structural firefighting. Large frame aircraft fires can be just as deadly to firefighters requiring the standby of a RIT. Some common problems relating to ARFF incidents is; tight & narrow conditions, large number of victims, flammable liquids, engine intake & exhaust dangers, small & few exits, escape heights, and a large number of entanglement hazards to name just a few. Airport Fire Departments should have a strong rapid intervention policy to help in keeping their firefighters safe as well as a good firefighter rescue training program. The firefighters in this photograph are practicing a mechanical advantage lowering system from an exit door during an advanced ARFF course. Firefighters from all over the country and Guam participated. This training was conducted at the Pittsburgh International Airport Regional FAA Fire training center directed by Deputy Chief Rick Wilson.

Photo by Jim Crawford