Bigasshammm

December 31st, 2015 at 2:58 PM ^

It seems like the fire was external? If it started in the patio and then crept up the outside of the building then they need to readdress what the outer coating of the bldgs there are. Hopefully this is true and it was mostly external. Would play a large part in getting everyone out safely. I worked in a hotel for a few years and my mom was the gm for several. Always their worst fear.

Joined: 07/03/2008

MGoPoints: 4612

Esterhaus

December 31st, 2015 at 3:02 PM ^

 
These buildings are chimneys awaiting fuel ignition with diminished concrete to serve as firebreaks because with the "higher hence lighter weight modern" design some structures appear less resistant to chimney-effect as the concrete got traded away. Really and truly terrible, and it can happen here in the US or anywhere.
 
Back in the day working upper floor Sears Tower I kept my BASE rig (parachuting) and a hatchet in my office because how ever unlikely to help at least it was something. Can't really manage that while traveling and living in a hotel.

Joined: 03/16/2015

MGoPoints: 7733

Esterhaus

December 31st, 2015 at 4:21 PM ^

 
"Faith," my sexcretary (her joke), laughed about that. Until our first building fire drill together - immediately after which she asked me whether we both could fit under the leg and chest straps, jump and then make a safe landing together. I replied in the affirmative but left open the possiblity that my willingness to serve as a BASE "tandem pilot" could conceivably depend upon my delegated work being done by her promptly. I'm a bastard that way.
 
Merry New Year!

Joined: 03/16/2015

MGoPoints: 7733

MEZman

December 31st, 2015 at 3:14 PM ^

I read an article about Dubai having jet packs for firefighting and I remember thinking what in the hell would you use that for? Well that picture answers my question.

Joined: 12/13/2008

MGoPoints: 15879