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## Collapse Indicators ### Beware of how close to a building the elevating platform operates - On occasion, they have knocked down parapets and roofs by bumping into them. - If you're forced to operate in an area where structural weakness is suspected, use methods and tools that produce little or...

## Collapse Indicators ### Beware of how close to a building the elevating platform operates - On occasion, they have knocked down parapets and roofs by bumping into them. - If you're forced to operate in an area where structural weakness is suspected, use methods and tools that produce little or no impact load or vibration. - For example, if it is necessary to cut a piece of flooring, use a circular saw rather than an axe or a reciprocating saw. - Shut down all sources of vibrations. ### Miscellaneous Causes - High winds, flooding due to storms, and damage to water mains can cause collapse under some circumstances. - Other times, the impact of high-velocity hose streams can knock structural supports out of place entirely or simply displace them enough to let some other factor come into play. - Then, of course, there is just plain old age. - Few buildings are made to last more than 100 years. - Many have already passed that milestone and are simply tired of standing. - Keep in mind that gravity is always seeking to flatten vertical objects. - The job of firefighters is to ensure that no one is in the way when nature finally takes its course and demolishes a structure in what we call collapse. ### How to avoid being caught in a collapse - Constantly examine the structure, as well as its surroundings (especially the fire), for indications the building is losing the battle.