I have taught FAST/RIT operations for years now A what is said above about units nears the Mayday or Member of the firefighter's own unit removing the firefighter giving the mayday is true. In only about 10% to 12 % does the FAST/RIT actually remove the member giving the Mayday, BUT there ARE some situations where more members than just one are trapped, for example a structural collapse, or flashover or other situations that effects an entire floor or large area of the building. It takes more members than you think to safely remove an injured or trapped member. Make it MEMBERS and you truly need more help removing perhaps multiple trapped or injured firefighters. I have over 50 years of firefighting experience, including 30 years working in some of the busiest areas in the FDNY. I have been involved in more than a dozen actual Maydays!
The truth is you never have enough help when the Mayday is for multiple members, or a collapse or sudden rapid-fire spread. The Chief that put the FAST/RIT Team to work for other than Maydays! should be disciplined. Forward placement of the FAST/RIT Team places them in the position of also being trapped by a major/sizable. Collapse or other danger. Captain Bob Rainey FDNY Engine 26 retired
