Report: Fallen Kan. firefighter removed mask after becoming sick
By FireRescue1 Staff
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A firefighter killed in a house fire became sick in his face piece, removed it and died from toxic gases, investigators found.
Shawnee firefighter John B. Glaser had rescued a dog from the burning home on May 22, then went back into the building to search for a victim who was not inside, according to a Kansas Fire Marshal report released Thursday.
As firefighters were following a dry hose line into the house to search for victims, Firefighter Glaser's partner heard him call for help but could not reach him.
"A mayday was announced. A search began and Firefighter Glaser was located in the master bathroom," the report said.
Firefighters found him unresponsive with his helmet, face piece and gloves removed.
He had taken the equipment off in an attempt to clear vomit from inside the SCBA, according to investigators.
Resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful and he was pronounced dead at a hospital.
He had already responded to about three calls earlier in the day and ate two large meals just four hours apart, the report said.
