13 thoughts on “Security Grates”

  1. John Mogan says:

    We see alot of this in Chicago. They are a bitch to get to in poor conditions. There are also 3 or 4 different variations for the door versions. I will try to post some photos in the near future.The link is to some photos a local photographer took of a fire another shift had in a builing with this system.
    http://nordfirephotos.smugmug.com/gallery/2895845#156054143

    John Mogan
    Chicago FD
    Truck 32

  2. Sean says:

    Tony and John, great info on these metal grates!!

    “Tony and his crew have found that the best option to force them is to use a rotary saw with a metal cutting blade to cut each bar, a standard 12” or 14” blade will do the trick”

    if we were inside by chance, would this still apply, or is there a mechanism of release on the grate itself?

    Thanks, guys!!

  3. H. Lancellotti says:

    John, I will be posting an update to this security grate issue. I did some testing with these at our Fire Academy and have come up with some options. E-mail me at harry.lancellotti@baltimorecity.gov and we will talk more.

  4. KJ SQUAD2 CHICAGO says:

    IF INSIDE YOU COULD USE A SET OF KNIPEX CABLE CUTTERS TO CUT THE TENSION CABLE THAT SETS THESE SYSTEMS INTO THE FRAME OR OPENING. STAY SAFE BROTHERS

  5. G. Pippin says:

    We have them in our city also. Our plan of attack is to use either a metal cutting saw or the torch depending on conditions.

    G. Pippin
    Chester Fire Department
    Engine 821

  6. TRUCK 4 says:

    Does anyone have the name of the company that builds these? I would like to find out a bit more about these products.

    Thanks

  7. HEAD says:

    You can always try the SWAT technique and put some tow chains with the long hooks and use the cheifs SUV to rip them off

  9. jimm says:

    Thanks for that link. That video shows some great shots of how these enclosures are secured from the inside. -Jimm-

  10. T-Dawg says:

    It is not recommended to cut the cable, as it is under EXTREME tension and could potentially harm the person cutting the cable.

  11. Tom Towhey says:

    We are just starting to see these in my city. here, they are frequently seen on single family dwellings with masonite or wood siding. My crew has decided that in the name of safety we will cut the siding out next to the door if at all possible, and enter through the wall! The doors can then be opened up from inside, and the cross members across the windows can be cut or removed via universal key (axe).

  12. David Jackson says:

    I have good pics of this vacant building security system? Can someone tell me how to post them. I also am going to receive a power point presentation on how to get into these buildings I would like to share that also.

  13. Jeff Courtney says:

    For Lt. Jackson, I think if you give them to your Captain he could post them for you..
    The problem appears to be many manufacturers with different methods of attatchments. One operation will not be our standard for all styles.. So along the lines of lock systems, so will be the new steel plated HUDS.
    Just my opinion.

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