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The NIOSH report details the sofa store fire by the minute, pointing to issues with water supply and hoses. The report also raises questions about communication and incident command. Former Charleston firefighter Jay Lowry says that many of the concerns previously discussed were made very apparent in this report.
In this latest breakdown of the tragic Sofa Super Store fire, a federal agency points out serious flaws in communication during this fire. Lowry says the report is proof mistakes were made.
“We know now for sure. Not only did they not know where they were, but who was missing and that reflects directly on the chief of the Charleston Fire Department,” said Lowry.
In 54 pages, NIOSH details equipment problems. In one section, firefighters told the agency the pump system on engine 11 was quote "touchy." During the fire, the acting engine chief had to leave the building to fix the problem in place of a less experienced firefighter.
“If they knew it was tricky to engage the pump, why wasn't it taken care of,” said Lowry.
At 7:35 p.m., the report says the Chief called for the showroom windows to be knocked out to improve visibility.
“That was venting the windows with firefighters inside, and that is usually a questionable tactic with venting,” said Lowry.
NIOSH investigators say water supply was a critical factor leading up to these nine fatalities. At one point, an engine company failed to locate a hydrant, large diameter hoses were not used until twenty minutes after flames filled the showroom and insufficient water pressure.
This report also points out the numerous attempts to save the men inside but where forced back by the heat and flames. One of those men trying to save his fellow firefighters suffered second degree burns.
This is just a draft report and those recommendations will be in the final NIOSH report. The final report from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is not expected for another three to four months.
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