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Rapid Intervention Team Rescues Tulsa Firefighter in House Fire

Updated: 11-20-2005 01:42:53 PM

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NICOLE MARSHALL, World Staff Writer

Tulsa World (Oklahoma)

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A Tulsa firefighter was injured early Thursday when a weak floor gave out under him while he was battling a house fire and he fell about 12 feet into a basement.

Joe Carollo, a fire equipment operator for the fire department, was treated for a torn bicep and injuries to his shoulder and back, said Fire Capt. Larry Bowles.

A fire department rapid intervention team rescued Carollo and he received only a small burn on his thigh, Bowles said.

Firefighters were dispatched to a house fire at 1150 S. Elgin Ave. about 4 a.m., Bowles said. When they arrived, they saw flames coming from the unoccupied residence, which was being remodeled.

Carollo and other firefighters went inside to attack the blaze. A weak floor gave out underneath him and he fell. District Chief Eddie Bell then sent in the rapid intervention team to rescue him.

"They have a water supply dedicated solely to such an emergency. They were standing at the front door and responded immediately. In this case, it worked perfectly," Bowles said.

Bowles said the firefighters are to be commended for their response to the dangerous emergency.

"We practice for these sort of events so when they become a reality, we have the ability to respond quickly, Bowles said.

Carollo was examined by the city physician on Thursday and will likely be off from work for some time while he heals.

Bowles said that Carollo is 6 feet 1 inch tall, 350 pounds and holds a bench press record at the University of Oklahoma.

"He is a very strong man. We are glad to have him on the Fire Department," Bowles said.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, Bowles said.

Preliminary estimates placed the value of the home in excess of $100,000. The fire caused more than $20,000 damage.