Crib Dump

   In this article, we look at the proper technique for searching cribs during primary search operations. Cribs, like beds, are a unique piece of furniture that firefighters must be able to quickly identify, in limited visibility and search in a way that is safest for the potential victims inside. One mental cue for firefighters that they found a crib is the presence of spindles or tightly spaced wooden posts. Additionally, if a firefighter feels a piece of furniture that resembles a large box, they should reach their hand up on top and investigate if it has an open top, thus indicating the potential for a crib.

   In a stressful environment, it's human nature to stand up and lean over the crib’s railing to search its contents. However, this approach poses several challenges, particularly in situations with low visibility. Firefighters rely heavily on their sense of touch in low visibility environments, and reaching the entirety of the crib from a standing position can be difficult or in some cases, nearly impossible. Furthermore, this approach can inadvertently worsen the situation if a victim is found inside because instinctively the firefighter will pick the victim up out of the crib. Lifting a victim out of a crib while standing exposes the victim to increased smoke conditions, which could potentially compromise their small airway.

   To address these challenges and enhance the safety of victims, firefighters should utilize the “crib dump” technique to search a crib. This technique involves tipping the crib onto the firefighter’s lap, thus bringing all its contents to one side. By doing this, the crib’s contents all move to one side, easily within reach of the firefighter to search while also keeping the victim’s airway low, where the best environmental conditions are.

   Finally, ensure that underneath the crib gets searched. Personally, if space allows, I prefer to perform the crib dump, leave the crib on the ground, and then search behind it, effectively searching the area that was underneath the crib. I prefer this approach because it prioritizes searching inside the crib where there is a higher probability of finding a victim, and it allows me to thoroughly search the space under the crib with my hands, which can be difficult when trying to reach underneath from the side of a crib. Although the general rule is to avoid tipping over furniture inside structures while searching to prevent firefighter disorientation, cribs are the one exception.

   For this month’s training, practice the crib dump and then integrate the technique into a primary search or a Vent-Enter-Search (VES) drill. Using theatrical smoke or placing saran wrap on firefighters’ masks can reduce visibility during the drill, challenging firefighters to identify the crib by feel. 

Training Objectives

   Upon completion the firefighter should be able to….

   • Effectively identify a crib in a low visibility environment.

   • Properly search a crib using the crib dump technique.

   Iowa Firefighter Association training articles are archived at: bit.ly/IowaFirefighter

   Cole Kleinwolterink is a member of the Waukee Fire Department, Granger Fire Department, and Fire Science instructor at Des Moines Area Community College. Feel free to reach out to him at kleinwolterinkc@gmail.com with any questions, comments or inquiries.