Firefighter dies after smoke-diver class
Capt. Neal Smith collapsed during a smoke-diving drill, his temperature exceeding 106 degrees
By EMS1 Staff
HOUSTON — A Texas volunteer firefighter has died after he was severely injured during a smoke-diver training class.
Capt. Neal Smith, 46, of the Atasocita Volunteer Fire Department passed out inside the smoke house during a smoke-diving drill at his training grounds in Beaumont, according to KEN5.
"Captain Smith was transported from the field with CPR in progress," said Atasocita Deputy Chief Mike Mulligan. "They regained pulses on the way to the hospital."
Admitted to the hospital in critical condition, doctors found that Capt. Smith's body temperature had soared over 106 degrees. He later died due to his heat-related illness.
"It feel like one of my personal family members is gone," Chief Mulligan said.
Neal is an 8-year Atasocita veteran and is survived by his wife and two young children.
The State Fire Marshal's office is heading the official investigation.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
Kevin Sleepy Friday, September 21, 2012 9:08:57 AM Smoke diving is what FF learns to do in practice and in real fires of entering a building that is charged with smoke. In simple terms its like trying to find you way in the dark , its dark a full of smoke. This is the way they can find victims in a fire, plus battle a fire from the inside. Hope I did not leave anything out. 
D Steven Mooch Friday, September 21, 2012 10:54:39 AM just 1 more reason to stay hydrated out there! 
Christopher Doyle Saturday, September 22, 2012 1:21:10 PM There is a Smoke Divers Course which Kevin explained. There are also those crazy MOFOS called Smoke Jumpers, which Jaime explained. 
