What did firefighters report at the time of the floor collapse?

Firefighters reported operating in dense smoke without heat or visible fire at the time of the floor collapse. This indicates that they were encountering a challenging firefighting environment characterized by low visibility due to thick smoke, but they did not experience extreme heat or see flames in the area where they were working. Recognizing these conditions is critical as it informs the decision-making process for safety.

Being in dense smoke presents significant risks, such as disorientation and impaired decision-making, which can contribute to safety hazards, including structural failures like a floor collapse. The absence of heat or visible fire may have led firefighters to assume the situation was more manageable, which could potentially contribute to cognitive overload and a lack of awareness concerning the structural integrity of the building.

Understanding this context reinforces the importance of constant situational awareness and proper assessment of risks during firefighting operations, especially in environments that might seem safe at first glance.