SOP Manual - Cleveland Fire Department

Cleveland Fire Department
Operations Manual
3. Lock Pullers
Lock pullers such as the K-tool, are designed to remove cylinder locks. When
operated properly, they do this quickly and are especially useful in opening steel
doors equipped with cylinder locks.
A Ladder/Truck Company should be equipped with at least one lock puller. In
use, one part of the lock puller is driven onto the cylinder lock and then pried off
with a halligan or similar tool. The lock is pulled out with the tool, and then
another part of the tool is used to release the latch.
D. Forcible Entry through Windows
If a window at or above the ground level is unlocked, there is no entry problem. If the
window is locked, it must be forced open.
1. Double-hung Windows
This type can be forced without much strain by prying up the bottom section at
the center of the window. If the top section is made of small panes, the pane
nearest the lock can be removed and the window unlocked. If a double-hung
window that must be used for entry cannot be forced quickly, the window
should be completely knocked out. Then, the window should be removed with a
tool. If it is safe to enter, the firefighter should remove all splinters of glass and
frame before moving through the window.
2. Other Windows
E. Wooden Doors
Windows that cannot be easily opened or pried should be broken. Any window
broken shall be completely cleaned around the frame to clear the way for
potential escape.
Doors usually have center panes (or panels) that can be quickly broken out. If the
opening is sufficient for entry and exit, the door can be left in place; otherwise, one
firefighter can reach through the opening and unlock or unbolt the door from the inside.
1. Commercial Occupancies: Rear
a. Steel Doors
Before an attempt is made to force a steel door, it should be checked for
an exposed lock or exposed hinges. If the lock can be seen, drive in a
pry tool between the door and frame, and force the door open. If the
hinges are exposed, pull the hinge pins and open the door from the
hinge side, or drive a tool between each hinge and the door facing to
force the hinges loose. If several doors are to be opened, it may
become necessary to use hydraulic tools in order to expedite entry.
Effective: June 1, 1997 Revised: 5/14/2009 Page | 216
Approved by: Chief Chuck Atchley