Venting Windows

Venting windows- when should you break them and when should you just open them.

 A good rule of thumb is something an old-timer told me. If you can stand up without your mask on then just open them. There's no need to break windows that can simply be opened. One part of our job is to limit the amount of damage. There's no reason to cause 50k damage for a 2$ fire.

 On the newer style of windows you can easily take them out without smashing them. Take them out and just put them to side of the opening leaving the homeowner the option of putting the windows back in.

 Time and time again you will see, or rather hear, windows being taken out.There's nothing worse than seeing a window being smashed and no smoke venting out. For me, it's embarrassing and plays to the stereotype that we do extra damage for no reason.

 If you're entering a building from the outside, say over a ladder, you have no other option but to take out the window. This leads to another issue you're seeing more and more.

 When taking out windows TAKE THE WINDOW OUT. Far too many times you will see someone smash a window and move on to the next. If you're going to vent a window clean out the whole window. Do not leave shards of glass in the frame. The remaining glass will present a cut hazard to any members entering or exiting that window.