Self-Guiding Tour

#21   Browder Life Safety Net

The Browder Life Net was a rescue device formerly used by firefighters. This particular Browder net was used at the Casa Loma building fire (Portage Ave. at Sherbrook St.) on April 14, 1928.

When used in the proper conditions, it allowed people on the upper floors of burning buildings an opportunity to jump to safety, usually to ground level. If used improperly it could lead to back injuries, broken ribs, other bodily harm to the individuals jumping, or the loss of fingers to firefighters.

Invented in 1887, it was phased out of service in Winnipeg in the 1960’s due to the large number of injuries associated with it, as well as the introduction of high-quality aerial equipment in the department’s fleet which facilitated victim rescue from high locations.

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