A last-resort self-rescue maneuver executed when a firefighter is trapped by rapidly worsening fire conditions, structural collapse, or loss of air. It often involves diving headfirst out of an upper-story window, sometimes using a specialized personal escape rope system to descend safely to the ground.
Heard on the job
Command, we've a flashover on the second floor, initiating a bailout from the alpha side window.
Insider tip
Firefighters carry dedicated bailout kits containing a harness, descent control device, and heat-resistant rope specifically for this scenario.