Fire Department New York Diving Operations

This paper addresses the origin, training, equiping, and operational procedures of the rapid deployment firefighter-divers of the Fire Department New York (F.D.N.Y.). The major impetus for the organization of an in-water firefighting capability came from pier fires along the Hudson River. Toxic and corrosive smoke from creosoted lumber was carried by prevailing Westerly winds over Manhattan's busiest areas for days before enough holes could be made in the two foot thick concrete piers to extinguish fires burning underneath. By sending firefighters into and under the water, firefighting hose lines can be carried underneath burning piers and brought to bear on the source of the fire and extinguishment accomplished before widespread involvement and serious air pollution, occurs. Also, after special training, divers can now make rapid rescues of underwater casualties.