On scene

Afghan Air Force firefighters rescue a simulated injured pilot during a Mi-17 familiarization and egress drill May 11 at Kandahar Airfield.The purpose of the fire training was to familiarize and train the KAW Fire Department in safe aircraft shut down and egress procedures in the event of an emergency. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo)

On scene

Afghan Air Force firefighters egress a simulated aircrew member during a Mi-17 familiarization and egress drill May 11 at Kandahar Airfield. The purpose of the fire training was to familiarize and train the KAW Fire Department in safe aircraft shut down and egress procedures in the event of an emergency. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo)

Afghan fire department conducts Mi-17 egress drill

Published May 15, 2011
By Staff Sgt. Justin Weaver
438th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan -- The Afghan Air Force Kabul Wing fire department conducted a self-led Mi-17 familiarization and egress drill May 11 at Kandahar Airfield.

The purpose of the fire training was to familiarize and train the KAW Fire Department in safe aircraft shut down and egress procedures in the event of an emergency. The scenario involved an incapacitated aircrew that could not egress the aircraft on their own.

"Our role is to advise, train and equip our Afghan counterparts to enable a fully independent and operational Air Wing," said Tech. Sgt. Blaine Holland, 443rd Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron fire and emergency services advisor. "The second important part of the training was to observe the KAW FD organize and conduct the training fully independently. The training section of the KAW FD is critical to the success of their mission."

Overall, Sergeant Holland was impressed with the training.

"The drill was successful and an important step towards an independent training program within the KAW Fire Department," he said. "KAW Fire Chief Muhammed Noor made all applicable contacts to reserve aircraft for training and firefighter Rahmatullah taught aircraft shutdown and egress familiarization to the department and answered any questions personnel had."

Once the familiarization training was complete, the firefighters donned helmets, coats and gloves to perform an egress drill. Fire Chief Noor was the incident commander and utilized crews to perform vehicle positioning, fire suppression, and rescue.

Upon completion of the drill Sergeant Holland led a debrief and the firefighters discussed ways to improve the operation.

"Through constant training and improvement, they will be able to safely mitigate hazards and protect their area of responsibility," Sergeant Holland added.