Burning QuestionFiremen's RuleNegligence
New Mexico Firefighters Sue Gas Company for Massive Explosion
Todays burning question: Can firefighters who are injured in a gas explosion sue the gas company, or is suit barred by the Fireman’s Rule?
Firefighters who responded to a massive gas pipeline explosion near Carlsbad, NM, in 2000 have been cleared by the New Mexico Supreme Court to proceed to trial against the gas company who is alleged to have improperly maintained the pipeline. The case was originally decided against the firefighters based upon the Firemen’s Rule (see Legal Considerations or Fire Officer’s Legal Handbook, Chapter 8). However, the New Mexico Supreme Court ruled that the suit could proceed. Click here for more details.
Today we lost a Brother Firefighter when a trash bin outside the Bremmer Manufacturing foundry in St Anna WI exploded, killing Brother Steven and injuring at least nine others. I have no doubt that fingers are already pointing toward training, staffing and if any liability rests with the manufacturing company.