Bronx Box 2953
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A view down the length of the 4000-gallon tank shows a rescuer surveying the scene. Note the minimal clearance (12 inches) between the concrete cellar ceiling and the lip of the manway the workers used to enter. Photo by Deputy Chief John Norman
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On September 15, 2003, Bronx Box 2953 was transmitted at 1359 hours for an EMS-generated response for Engine 46 at 1876 Arthur Avenue, between East Tremont Avenue and 176th Street, for a report of two workers overcome in the basement. The building involved was a five-story, 200- by 60-foot, class 3 multiple dwelling. On arrival, Engine 46 members discovered a far more complicated situation: rescue versus recovery; crime scene protocols; medical examiner coordination; and decontamination procedures--all issues that normally are not addressed at routine operations, but came into play at this incident--when Engine 46 confirmed to the dispatcher that this would be a confined space event.
See "Fuel Oil Storage Tank Proves Deadly in the Bronx," by Battalion Chief Fred LaFemina, in the 1st/2004 issue of WNYF.
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