Morning Keynote Session

8:15am -10:00 am

Report from Charleston, SC: Nine Firefighters Killed 

J. Gordon Routley, Lead Investigator

    On  June 18, 2007 a flashover and structural collapse killed nine firefighters at the Sofa Super Store in Charleston, South Carolina. It was the greatest loss of firefighter lives since the 9/11 attack. What happened? What factors led to this tragedy? What are the lessons learned? Its easy to be a Monday morning quarterback - and no one wants to point fingers - but at the same time we want to learn, and improve the way we operate.

Gordon Routley was the lead investigator of a select six member team selected that investigated the Super Sofa Store fire. The team's responsibility included conducting a comprehensive review of the department, and making recommendations for improvement.  Learn the details about the fire - and get the answers to the questions we all have about the Charleston fire. There are plenty of lessons learned that can be applied to all fire departments everywhere!!!!

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