Featured Blog Posts - My Firefighter Nation2024-03-19T09:30:52Zhttps://my.firefighternation.com/profiles/blog/feed?promoted=1&xn_auth=noMAYDAY!! - MAYDAY!! - Do You Know What to Do?tag:my.firefighternation.com,2020-12-20:889755:BlogPost:67525672020-12-20T20:56:08.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<div class="" dir="auto"><div class="ecm0bbzt hv4rvrfc ihqw7lf3 dati1w0a" id="jsc_c_95"><div class="j83agx80 cbu4d94t ew0dbk1b irj2b8pg"><div class="qzhwtbm6 knvmm38d"><div class="kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">Whether you're a career or volunteer firefighter, you have probably learned how to declare a MAYDAY, if you find yourself in unexpected danger. You may also have learned and trained to be a member of a RIT/RIC team. But,…</div>
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<div class="" dir="auto"><div class="ecm0bbzt hv4rvrfc ihqw7lf3 dati1w0a" id="jsc_c_95"><div class="j83agx80 cbu4d94t ew0dbk1b irj2b8pg"><div class="qzhwtbm6 knvmm38d"><div class="kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">Whether you're a career or volunteer firefighter, you have probably learned how to declare a MAYDAY, if you find yourself in unexpected danger. You may also have learned and trained to be a member of a RIT/RIC team. But, do you know what to do on an emergency scene if you are NOT the one who called the MAYDAY, AND...you're not on a RIT/RIC team?</div>
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<div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">Of course, our "gut" reaction is to drop whatever we're doing and run over to the scene to help. However, that will rarely be the correct action to take!</div>
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<div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">Join us on January 26, 2021 at 6:30 PM EST for our webinar that will address this issue and will over advice based on experience!.</div>
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<div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">Presenters include:</div>
<div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">1. Battalion Chief Andy Starnes of Insight Training LLC and Kill the Flashover.</div>
<div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">2. Battalion Chief John Dixon of <span><a class="oajrlxb2 g5ia77u1 qu0x051f esr5mh6w e9989ue4 r7d6kgcz rq0escxv nhd2j8a9 nc684nl6 p7hjln8o kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x jb3vyjys rz4wbd8a qt6c0cv9 a8nywdso i1ao9s8h esuyzwwr f1sip0of lzcic4wl py34i1dx gpro0wi8" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FInstructorJohnDixon.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR07WS6kYV--Pelk02ZvLkVvZzfmKdbgTgaJ-IK0LtoFrOQQdgKUNbZ586Y&h=AT3k21uer2rpinz8QSRIXU-dqiurz4bp8BP8Q48Nj7wukbStFmOttTkRI3SqbBx3b8Yvdl6BeSpc8rszAWrKPYoCnJeL5bw_ooP6mFJiXZBOr4hHzJ8hMAdheCT6vD3VKnTW&__tn__=-UK-R&c[0]=AT3lz7_3eUFGOEwQVsRZkVq-jgp_F4j0wtSJJTpiQPJGD8h28BgBL_mbtW7_EiF6lBqDv9q_bIQrXGzY8B48p6ay8BwBE3U2mHdmV8aJdf5fkKfliIK3E5K1poF99zC7kPaH" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">InstructorJohnDixon.com</a></span></div>
<div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">3. Capt. Joe DeVito of Ft. Myers Beach Fire Protection District</div>
<div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">4. FF Nic Higgins of The Firehouse Tribune.</div>
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<div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">Tickets are $20 and net proceeds will help First Responders in need!</div>
<div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">Purchase your ticket today, through Eventbrite at <span><a class="oajrlxb2 g5ia77u1 qu0x051f esr5mh6w e9989ue4 r7d6kgcz rq0escxv nhd2j8a9 nc684nl6 p7hjln8o kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x jb3vyjys rz4wbd8a qt6c0cv9 a8nywdso i1ao9s8h esuyzwwr f1sip0of lzcic4wl py34i1dx gpro0wi8" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2FBit.ly%2FMAYDAY2021%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR192gNhapiql6p8vt8QeHL97GtuZLHS0OVoZNfci5Gvw9UF6EWfIAhClwQ&h=AT1al9PSLjpRWTalSs1V0_GCGnAFdrKzGz230JWARCBqb8IyxV_lfh4BHY4UWTeT35kM4Hfgg5uDHlJMBr05S9bePYHsrQXx1xdZZeqzqWvySf9gx8ivctIgI3BJcAlRq5-R&__tn__=-UK-R&c[0]=AT3lz7_3eUFGOEwQVsRZkVq-jgp_F4j0wtSJJTpiQPJGD8h28BgBL_mbtW7_EiF6lBqDv9q_bIQrXGzY8B48p6ay8BwBE3U2mHdmV8aJdf5fkKfliIK3E5K1poF99zC7kPaH" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">http://Bit.ly/MAYDAY2021</a></span></div>
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<div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">Stay Safe & Stay Well!</div>
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<div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: start;">Happy Holidays to all!</div>
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</div>Episode 5- 10 - Chief Dan Kerrigan & Capt. Jim Mosstag:my.firefighternation.com,2020-11-14:889755:BlogPost:67466602020-11-14T15:39:21.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>Firefighter health, wellness and fitness-for-duty – you have often heard us address these topics because they define our abilities as firefighters. If you do not take care of yourself, how do you expect to be able to care for others?</p>
<p>Our returning guests, Chief Dan Kerrigan and Capt. Jim Moss, have dedicated themselves to teaching just how important these topics are, not just by learning about them, but by embracing their values and making these values part of your life. If you want…</p>
<p>Firefighter health, wellness and fitness-for-duty – you have often heard us address these topics because they define our abilities as firefighters. If you do not take care of yourself, how do you expect to be able to care for others?</p>
<p>Our returning guests, Chief Dan Kerrigan and Capt. Jim Moss, have dedicated themselves to teaching just how important these topics are, not just by learning about them, but by embracing their values and making these values part of your life. If you want to be a firefighter and serve your community to the best of your ability, then you have to devote yourself to more than knowing what equipment is on which apparatus or how to tie a bunch of knots. You must take care of yourself!</p>
<p>Chief Kerrigan and Capt. Moss, wrote, what some might call the “bible” of firefighter health and wellness, “Firefighter Functional Fitness.” They discuss the “pillars” of firefighter overall wellness, which includes areas such as restorative rest, proper hydration and much more. If you care about your role as a firefighter, listen or watch this episode and I would suggest having a pad pf paper and a pencil nearby. You are going to learn!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tune in on our website, <a href="http://www.Bit.ly/5-ATFC">www.Bit.ly/5-ATFC</a> or your favorite podcast platform!<a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8160322866?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8160322866?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>Special Episode to Introduce Tom Mitten & F.R.E.T.tag:my.firefighternation.com,2020-11-09:889755:BlogPost:67436442020-11-09T19:58:01.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>There have been any number of changes here at the “5-Alarm Task Force” podcast since we started in Fall of 2016. Our guest list is amazing, we have recorded over 150 episodes, we are on every major (and numerous, “minor”) podcast platforms and we have listeners in over 40 countries and, we moved to the Zoom platform! You might think we have attained all our goals. Nope!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If you are a regular listener, you know that we recently added a new monthly installment of the series,…</p>
<p>There have been any number of changes here at the “5-Alarm Task Force” podcast since we started in Fall of 2016. Our guest list is amazing, we have recorded over 150 episodes, we are on every major (and numerous, “minor”) podcast platforms and we have listeners in over 40 countries and, we moved to the Zoom platform! You might think we have attained all our goals. Nope!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If you are a regular listener, you know that we recently added a new monthly installment of the series, “Make Due.” And we have had particularly good numbers showing up. However, you are also aware that, while our podcast is dedicated the fire service, we are inclusive and need to also cover EMS, as well. And that begins with this podcast!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My dear friend and former business partner, Tom Mitten, joins me as we share with you a new installment feature that Tom will carry, called “F.R.E.T. – Fire, Rescue & EMS Today.” Tom comes to us with over 30 years in the volunteer fire service and is well-connected to today’s issues. Learn all about F.R.E.T. right here!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tune in on our website, <a href="http://www.Bit.ly/5-ATFC">www.Bit.ly/5-ATFC</a> or your favorite podcast platform!<a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8141526854?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8141526854?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>Episode 5- 8 - How to Leand the Fire Service for the Next 50 Years" with Dr. Burton A. Clark, EFOtag:my.firefighternation.com,2020-10-23:889755:BlogPost:67331942020-10-23T12:56:22.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>From the newest cadet to the 30-year firefighter, we have all become part of the “fire culture.” We enjoy hearing stories from the senior folk and cannot help but to juxtapose those stories to this fire service in 2020. Lots of changes and adaptations have occurred. For some we know the reason and for others, we have no idea. Most of those changes came about through the first person who thought about them. They shared that idea with others and, sometimes soon and sometimes much later, those…</p>
<p>From the newest cadet to the 30-year firefighter, we have all become part of the “fire culture.” We enjoy hearing stories from the senior folk and cannot help but to juxtapose those stories to this fire service in 2020. Lots of changes and adaptations have occurred. For some we know the reason and for others, we have no idea. Most of those changes came about through the first person who thought about them. They shared that idea with others and, sometimes soon and sometimes much later, those changes became part of out fire culture.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Our guest, Dr. Burton Clark, EFO, discusses the fire culture through his presentation, titled above. In it, he describes not just “somebody” had an idea and made a change, but how he, himself, was able to bring about change in the fire service. And he shares his story of how the word, MAYDAY went from being forbidden by the NFPA to its acceptance, yet it took 10 years for that change to come about.</p>
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<p>YOU can be the “one.” YOU can have that first idea which, in some way, you believe deep in your heart, will bring about positive change in the fire service. You can be the one of the leaders in the fire service in the next 50 years!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tune in on your favorite podcast platform or visit us at <a href="http://www.5-alarmtaskforcecorp.org">www.5-alarmtaskforcecorp.org</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>*PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS PRESENTATION WAS RECORDED ON ZOOM, USING THE POWER-POINT PRESENTATION. DR. CLARK WAS SPEAKING AS EACH SLIDE WAS PRESENTED. TO SEE THE VIDEO, PLEASE VISIT OUR CHANNEL ON YOUTUBE, 5-ALARM TASK FORCE CORP.</p>
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<p><em>Photo Courtesy Dr. Burton A. Clark, EFO</em><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8066226252?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8066226252?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-left"/></a></p>Episode 5-7 – Robert A. Bilott, Esq. – The Fight Against PFAS/PFOStag:my.firefighternation.com,2020-10-20:889755:BlogPost:67315002020-10-20T18:33:11.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8055288658?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-full" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8055288658?profile=RESIZE_710x"></img></a> We fight fire, we fight HAZMAT, we rescue the ill and injured. And we don’t think twice about doing so. This is who we are and what we do. However, imagine that your enemy is unseen, yet deadly. You have no way to protect yourself, not your gear, or SCBA! What do you do?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>That is part of question raised by attorney Robert Bilott. If you saw the…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8055288658?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8055288658?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a>We fight fire, we fight HAZMAT, we rescue the ill and injured. And we don’t think twice about doing so. This is who we are and what we do. However, imagine that your enemy is unseen, yet deadly. You have no way to protect yourself, not your gear, or SCBA! What do you do?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>That is part of question raised by attorney Robert Bilott. If you saw the recent movie, “Dark Waters,” actor Mark Ruffalo portrayed Mr. Bilott and you saw how this attorney filed a multi-million lawsuit against a major chemical manufacturer and won! The chemicals he fought against are most easily referenced as PFAS/PFOS.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This podcast is not a chemistry class. However, you will hear Mr. Bilott explain how these “forever chemicals,” (as they are man-made and will not break down, even after millions of years) are poisoning firefighters, as the chemicals are in our bunker gear since 1977, as well as in everything from stain-resistant carpets, non-stick cookware, etc. And he has recently filed a federal request for class-action status to allow every firefighter since 1977 and, every resident in this country since 1977, so they can join as plaintiffs in this major lawsuit.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You and everyone you care about should listen to this podcast.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>So, tune in on your favorite podcast platform or visit us at <a href="http://www.5-alarmtaskforcecorp.org">www.5-alarmtaskforcecorp.org</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Photo Courtesy NIH</em></p>Memory, Stress, and Counseling.tag:my.firefighternation.com,2020-06-08:889755:BlogPost:67120302020-06-08T01:52:39.000ZTed Meadhttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/TedMead
<p>This is a kind of touchy subject because every person is different and how they handle stress is myriad as well.</p>
<p>there are those of us who are Cursed with a photographic memory and in our line of work the trauma we deal with can take its toll in ptsd.</p>
<p>now many people would say its not a curse but a blessing! NOT REALLY!!</p>
<p>no matter how long it goes on a stressful event can be likened to an angry crow in your head screaming at regular intervals in your ear so you never…</p>
<p>This is a kind of touchy subject because every person is different and how they handle stress is myriad as well.</p>
<p>there are those of us who are Cursed with a photographic memory and in our line of work the trauma we deal with can take its toll in ptsd.</p>
<p>now many people would say its not a curse but a blessing! NOT REALLY!!</p>
<p>no matter how long it goes on a stressful event can be likened to an angry crow in your head screaming at regular intervals in your ear so you never forget it..</p>
<p>here is why you should never hold it in. stress buildup can do physical damage to your body by raising your blood pressure to dangerous levels. short term stress is usually not dangerous but but sustained elevated BP will overtax your heart, damage kidneys and liver, not to mention put you at a very high risk for aneurysm and stroke.</p>
<p>do not be afraid to talk to someone about it. Asking for help is not a weakness but a great exhibit of strength.</p>
<p>you do not need to be a psychiatrist to talk to but you need to recognize the signs, more quiet than normal, withdrawn and depressed, and noticed increase in alcohol consumption.</p>
<p>many departments have an chaplain and while he or she may be of one particular religion it does not stop him or her from talking with others to help assuage and alleviate stress.</p>
<p>a good example at my last command (navy) one of the chaplains was a Muslim and he had a gift for counseling people no matter what their religion was (I am an Atheist myself and we spent many hours discussing differences in religions) and to this day I am lucky to count him as a friend.</p>
<p>the point Im making here is Talk to someone and Dont hold it in! Your health will be the better for it.</p>Lost Everything to an Early Morning Structure Firetag:my.firefighternation.com,2020-06-02:889755:BlogPost:67118382020-06-02T22:18:04.000ZNelson Jr. Jenkinghttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/NelsonJrJenking
My Neighbour’s home suffered a structure fire. Unfortunately it only took about 15 minutes to spread to my unit and 2 others. My training kicked in and I was able to get everyone out alive. <a href="https://www.nugget.ca/news/local-news/fire-victim-geared-up-to-fight-mattawa-blaze">https://www.nugget.ca/news/local-news/fire-victim-geared-up-to-fight-mattawa-blaze</a>
My Neighbour’s home suffered a structure fire. Unfortunately it only took about 15 minutes to spread to my unit and 2 others. My training kicked in and I was able to get everyone out alive. <a href="https://www.nugget.ca/news/local-news/fire-victim-geared-up-to-fight-mattawa-blaze">https://www.nugget.ca/news/local-news/fire-victim-geared-up-to-fight-mattawa-blaze</a>COVID-19: Emergency Management Lessons Learnedtag:my.firefighternation.com,2020-04-13:889755:BlogPost:67088772020-04-13T17:30:00.000ZJeff Armstronghttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/JeffArmstrong211
<p>Like all of you, my last month (or so) has been nothing but COVID-19 related response, planning and discussions. Emerging from this event we will undoubtedly have thousands of stories and lessons learned, each one being unique. This pandemic has been like nothing I have seen nor hope to see again in my lifetime of public service. The point of this article is to share some thoughts and lessons learned. Not that these are unlike what you are experiencing; however, my desire is to…</p>
<p>Like all of you, my last month (or so) has been nothing but COVID-19 related response, planning and discussions. Emerging from this event we will undoubtedly have thousands of stories and lessons learned, each one being unique. This pandemic has been like nothing I have seen nor hope to see again in my lifetime of public service. The point of this article is to share some thoughts and lessons learned. Not that these are unlike what you are experiencing; however, my desire is to memorialize this time in history while soliciting your thoughts and lessons learned in the comments. </p>
<p>In my role as Fire Chief, I serve as the Assistant Emergency Services Director (reporting to the City Manager / Emergency Services Director) and am the City EOC Director. Since this is a limited EOC activation, I am also filling the role of Plans Section Chief. Our EOC has been activated since early March, like most EOCs across the Country; however, we are only at a Level Three activation. </p>
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<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>We are trained to handle incidents, not wars.</strong></span> </p>
<p>I don’t think there was a Fire or EMS Agency that truly felt prepared for what we have experienced over the last month or so. From evolving direction at the Federal and state level, to new and emerging issues that surfaced within our own organization. The COVID-19 outbreak was nothing like anything we have seen – the enemy was invisible and not at a specific location. Hence, we couldn’t apply traditional risk models to it. Many of us are “planners” by nature and before this, we might have felt like we understood our emergency plans, continuity plans and the capabilities of our organizations; however, this outbreak left the best us questioning everything we have known. Our emergency plans work great for an event, multiple events or even an extended event; but traditional models are stretched thin when you apply them over unknown geography, unknown populations and unknown times. Over the last four weeks we have had to rethink everything including sustainability, and for the smaller agencies, what would happen if we had no first responders left to staff our departments. </p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Know the needs of your Department and Community: don’t wait for others to act.</strong></span></p>
<p>If you are a small agency like us, with an at-risk population or target hazards, you may have to make bold moves and ‘step out’ ahead of this situation early. Collaboration is important; however, you may need to make decisions that are in the best interest of your community. Ideally, your region, mutual aid partners and county would enter into a joint management structure or form a Regional Incident Management Team (IMT). However, if that isn’t feasible due to politics or available resources, you may have to act alone. </p>
<p>I don’t want to paint a picture of a community that was devastated by this pandemic. While we do not claim to have been as hard as other areas in the Country, we did have significant risk due to our demographics and geography. We identified our risks early and made a decision to activate our Emergency Operations Center in early March and prepare for the worst. We focused on public information as our primary mission, ensuring our Community was obtaining factual validated information and recommendations. Next, we focused on contingency planning to include continuity of operations and continuity of government. Lastly, we supported Logistics, knowing that as this unfolded, we would see a significant impact to our retired community members and potentially need to provide service to a large amount of “shut-ins”. Recognizing the firefighter health and safety issues, we assigned a full-time safety officer to evaluate and monitor changes, direction, PPE, field operations and employee health. </p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Be agile.</strong></span></p>
<p>Being part of a small Agency also gives me the opportunity to measure effectiveness and make adjustments as needed. While policies and procedures where ‘coming at us’ almost daily, from the CDC, Public Health and the Local EMS Authority (sometimes even contradicting each other), we understood this was going to be dynamic and not managed from any “playbook”. A such, I took time to sit and talk to our staff and explain the challenges we faced. I wanted them to understand why there were so many changes and not fall into a trap of “managing by memo”. The assignment of a full-time safety officer turned out to be a huge value-added as this individual communicated daily across shifts and departments, while assisting in the field. </p>
<p>The information coming from above us, as well as the perceived inaction by some agencies was frustrating, yet, we understood this was new terrain for us all. Understanding that not all agencies move like the Fire Service where we are comfortable making decisions with 40-70% of the available information, we needed to learn patience. Communicating with staff and preparing them for changes every shift, helped cut down on their frustration with us (management), helped them understand leader’s intent and gave them buy-in on our efforts. </p>
<p>While we moved sooner and faster than some, we continued to communicate and offer support. We established a Google drive to share all our policies, procedures, IAPs and draft documents. We asked many to share what they were doing and experiencing, in an effort to make us all stronger. While we focused on collaboration and relationships, our primary focus had to be our own Community. </p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>We are changed foreve</strong><strong>r.</strong></span></p>
<p>Lessons learned throughout this response will change our own view of our Agency as well as our own capabilities. Our Emergency Managers and Planning Section Chiefs need to think beyond an “event” and understand that the act of planning is far more important than the plan itself. More important than our emergency plan documents, is the need to have individuals on the team who are comfortable planning, making changes and who can think like there is no box when exploring options and sustainability. For the last few years my Community has been asking about our capabilities when it comes to large scale events and emergency planning. For the time being, I hope those questions are answered as I am extremely proud of the work the team in the EOC and in the field have done.</p>
<p>As a Fire Service Organization, we are rethinking everything. From station supply stock and PPE, to our responses. New facility protocols put into place to provide for firefighter health and safety, are beginning to make sense far beyond this pandemic. We have also identified “rock stars” among us who have risen to meet the challenge. We have developed and strengthened relationships that will carry us beyond the Coronavirus pandemic and into the future, making us bigger, better and stronger than ever before. </p>
<p>Please stay safe and stay healthy!</p>
<p> </p>First Responders and the Coronavirustag:my.firefighternation.com,2020-04-13:889755:BlogPost:67089742020-04-13T13:52:33.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>For well over a month, our lives and the lives of millions of people across six of the seven continents, have been turned upside down. The loss of life has been like nothing that has been seen since 1918! And the interruptions to our lives, from home quarantines, online schooling for our children, a ridiculous run on toilet paper, etc.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My guest on this podcast is Anthony Mangeri, a certified Public Manager, volunteer firefighter/EMT and he has many years’ experience in public…</p>
<p>For well over a month, our lives and the lives of millions of people across six of the seven continents, have been turned upside down. The loss of life has been like nothing that has been seen since 1918! And the interruptions to our lives, from home quarantines, online schooling for our children, a ridiculous run on toilet paper, etc.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My guest on this podcast is Anthony Mangeri, a certified Public Manager, volunteer firefighter/EMT and he has many years’ experience in public health management. In this episode, Anthony guides us on the path of facts, not fables. You may have heard some of what he shares, yet I am sure that there will be some info that you will find worthwhile.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We want you, our first responders to be safe. This is a whole new EMS world that we have never seen before. For firefighters and law enforcement, often the first ones on-scene, we want you to be safe.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tune in on your favorite podcast platform, our website, <a href="http://www.dalmatianproductions.tv">www.dalmatianproductions.tv</a> or our host at <a href="http://bit.ly/5ATF-POD">http://bit.ly/5ATF-POD</a>.</p>Coronavirus Seminar for First Responderstag:my.firefighternation.com,2020-04-03:889755:BlogPost:67081562020-04-03T12:38:58.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>5-Alarm Task Force and Insight Training LLC are proud to present a Coronavirus Webinar for First Responders, sponsored by Life Scan Wellness Centers. </p>
<p>Friday, April 17th at 1:00 PM.EDT. The webinar will be recorded for later viewing if you're unable to join us at 1:00 PM EDT.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Tickets are $10 and all net proceeds will be donated to the NFFF and a vetted Go Fund Me Page for PPE for first responders.</p>
<p>Get your tickets at …</p>
<p>5-Alarm Task Force and Insight Training LLC are proud to present a Coronavirus Webinar for First Responders, sponsored by Life Scan Wellness Centers. </p>
<p>Friday, April 17th at 1:00 PM.EDT. The webinar will be recorded for later viewing if you're unable to join us at 1:00 PM EDT.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Tickets are $10 and all net proceeds will be donated to the NFFF and a vetted Go Fund Me Page for PPE for first responders.</p>
<p>Get your tickets at <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/coronavirus-webinar-for-first-responders-tickets-101737860680">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/coronavirus-webinar-for-first-responders-tickets-101737860680</a></p>
<p>Stay Safe & Stay Well!<a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/4312863398?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/4312863398?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>Boosting Morale By Allowing Firefighters to Do Firefighter Things!tag:my.firefighternation.com,2020-02-13:889755:BlogPost:67064312020-02-13T15:12:27.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>In any organization, morale is one of the most important facets of the group, whether they are volunteers at a religious facility, workers in a mill, or the staff of a huge law firm encompassing an entire floor of a high-rise. Yet, it plays an even more important role for a cadre of first responders, especially, the fire service.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Most of us have seen a fire department, maybe our own or a neighboring, where morale is low. While vigorously trained to fight structure fires and…</p>
<p>In any organization, morale is one of the most important facets of the group, whether they are volunteers at a religious facility, workers in a mill, or the staff of a huge law firm encompassing an entire floor of a high-rise. Yet, it plays an even more important role for a cadre of first responders, especially, the fire service.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Most of us have seen a fire department, maybe our own or a neighboring, where morale is low. While vigorously trained to fight structure fires and perform death defying high-level or collapse rescues, this group often loses morale when they do not respond to those types of call in a period of months or for some, years! Thus the question: “How do we boost their morale?”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My guest, Capt. John Lovato, Jr., understands the predicament. In this podcast, Capt. Lovato shares his ideas of using required drill time to allow the “troops” to use many of those skills that they learned and developed. While live burns are rarer these days, he has his crews, drop feeder lines, throw ladders, stretch hoses, and more. And, there is little doubt that, whether day or night, these drills will often result in firefighters who are better prepared for many of the challenges that they will face. As you listen to Capt. Lovato, ask yourself, “Can my department think along these same lines for us?”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tune in on your favorite podcast platform or on our website, <a href="http://www.dalmatianproductions.tv">www.dalmatianproductions.tv</a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3860830634?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3860830634?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>5-Alarn Task Force's 2019 Reviewtag:my.firefighternation.com,2020-01-07:889755:BlogPost:67049382020-01-07T18:15:02.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<div class="_5pbx userContent _3576" id="js_6qp"><p>First, I hope that you and yours had a safe and wonderful holiday season!<br></br> Though we’re just starting 2020, 2019 was another great year for 5-Alarm Task Force. Here are some of our stats for 2019.<br></br> 1. Once again, we “crossed the world,” with listeners in nearly 40 countries, on six of the seven continents! (p.s. I'm still attempting to contact the fire brigade at the McMurdo Station in Antarctica. That would place us on all SEVEN…</p>
</div>
<div class="_5pbx userContent _3576" id="js_6qp"><p>First, I hope that you and yours had a safe and wonderful holiday season!<br/> Though we’re just starting 2020, 2019 was another great year for 5-Alarm Task Force. Here are some of our stats for 2019.<br/> 1. Once again, we “crossed the world,” with listeners in nearly 40 countries, on six of the seven continents! (p.s. I'm still attempting to contact the fire brigade at the McMurdo Station in Antarctica. That would place us on all SEVEN continents!)</p>
<p>2. I’ve learned that “Downloads” are just one factor when examining the depth of a podcast. The new term is, “accesses,” as listeners “access” the podcast in many ways; a good number of which don’t include downloading a show. So, in 2019, we experienced just under 40,000 accesses of our episodes!</p>
<p>3. Spotify also helped us travel the world with listeners from France to Australia (please keep those folks in your hearts & prayers) and New Zealand.<br/> With sincere appreciation to our podcast host, Podomatic, we have listeners in the Czech Republic, Kazakhstan, Morocco, Kenya and South Africa, to mention a few.</p>
<p>My sincere thanks to all of you here on Instagram, for your interest and support! Without you, our podcast world would have a gaping hole in it!</p>
<p>And please remember, if YOU have a topic you'd like to share with my listeners that deals with the fire service in particular or all first responders in general, please contact me via email at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fdalmatprod-at-outlook.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2LvbCcXJfG3rovce0uRUHQ_fO1H65qWstScfLZi6S4iP2acC0Ca09Fcdk&h=AT21Ni2dwIo6MkHC_h5HFx3hsEkmKu-Fk7BPrsPc63DqvYYkV4Yi6b_tkVRE1Fc3TQ59Qr9kEplcltHBONimVOpsGJkFQx5M1H-HtYBgo8kfHECgr9_xlI0QpN_ydAv0zqQQoJ-j8UPMXPkuxhs-gkM3_xV245NCmeGozYK34nCVag7wtnyElqLnFvgZGt1_N_0KOaNX2B3RaHIe-gVy4r9D5vGkVf-etlRMJDwktXi8DMFr0EH427zsfE_SWHGjdK3pIdBRSjZC5Z2ZEPCvkHjqVYNtMojUPaa9H1wA-aXRroKGLuQLBD-7uHUNNQvKtnFoQA0N820RRTf214cjfMmmsOqsuKqizy7YzbFkZQBC-nCcE4uwEm_3KvPpDkY5XAn02b2SKCiqnz0S2_zreQxbvRVlglR4haFOkgUWb4XvH64Rsl96YW_2vuN8rqJLaxgh7upzlEdwTEtav-wPnvimxlrppsdQUEDnU4aGVhPlokanJQMlj7APNyfRVBhtOdih5gjTrw5Ylh9ou8pgbh6aFb-55YyZz3nV6tz4IRmf3N4kNjsJmNw12I7QMTC1hRJ9p4JnEisZzm97_utolQNI5gBpGJsRYIAnIMvQfivtaKZQ-_6-JKAW-m82on50" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">dalmatprod-at-outlook.com</a> (You know the CORRECT way to format that address! I just don't want bots picking it up!)</p>
<p>Now - what can we do for 2020?<br/> Stay tuned - there could be a big change coming.</p>
</div>BUILD YOUR CULTURE - PROFESSIONALISM V. MINIMALISMtag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-12-17:889755:BlogPost:67043552019-12-17T14:19:05.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>As firefighters we constantly face challenges, however not all of them are at an emergency scene. Many of these challenges occur every day; often before we ever leave the station. And many of those challenges deal with our attitudes. You might be surprised at the toll that a wrong attitude can have.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My guests for this episode of “5-Alarm Task Force,” are Sean Duffy and Pablo Gener, of the “Build Your Culture,” training group. As with most choices we face in life, there is a…</p>
<p>As firefighters we constantly face challenges, however not all of them are at an emergency scene. Many of these challenges occur every day; often before we ever leave the station. And many of those challenges deal with our attitudes. You might be surprised at the toll that a wrong attitude can have.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My guests for this episode of “5-Alarm Task Force,” are Sean Duffy and Pablo Gener, of the “Build Your Culture,” training group. As with most choices we face in life, there is a “right way” and, let’s just call it “another way,” of doing things. However, as firefighters, we are held to a high standard for everything we do. And Sean and Pablo believe that, no matter if you’re a career, volunteer, wildland or paid-on-call firefighter, you should always be on your “A-game,” because in this business, anything less, could result in dire circumstances.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My guests pose the question, “If you truly want to build your firefighting culture, do you do so with professionalism or minimalism? What’s the difference between the two? What are the results? Listen to this podcast in its entirety and a clear picture will emerge. Then you will have a better idea of where you stand!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Listen to “5-Alarm Task Force” on our website, <a href="http://www.dalmatianproductions.tv">www.dalmatianproductions.tv</a> or on your favorite podcast platform.<a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3774395054?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3774395054?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>Annual Santa Food Drivetag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-12-13:889755:BlogPost:67044412019-12-13T02:21:57.000ZNorthpatchoguefdhttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/Northpatchoguefd
<p style="text-align: center;">••Revised due to expected weather.••</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3767568161?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3767568161?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="400"></img></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">The volunteer members of the North Patchogue Fire Department will be escorting Santa Claus throughout our entire district beginning at 10:00 am **Saturday, December 21st**. Keep your eyes and ears open, be on the look out! If…</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">••Revised due to expected weather.••</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3767568161?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3767568161?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center" width="400"/></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">The volunteer members of the North Patchogue Fire Department will be escorting Santa Claus throughout our entire district beginning at 10:00 am **Saturday, December 21st**. Keep your eyes and ears open, be on the look out! If you would like to donate we will also be collecting <br/>non-perishable food items for the local food pantries.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Please have a Safe and Happy Holiday..</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"></p>Th Importance of the 360 Size-Up + Moretag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-12-11:889755:BlogPost:67042352019-12-11T15:08:53.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>As long as we have had two-way radios in the fire service, the first arriving officer (or whomever was in a “right seat”) would provide some sort of report upon arrival. In my active years in two different departments from ’77-’85, the FAO might give a 15-30 “quick view” to dispatch. I remember being assigned to “recon” a structure file, a few times and report back to the ranking officer on scene. And mind you, in those days we had two radios: one fixed in the apparatus and one for the…</p>
<p>As long as we have had two-way radios in the fire service, the first arriving officer (or whomever was in a “right seat”) would provide some sort of report upon arrival. In my active years in two different departments from ’77-’85, the FAO might give a 15-30 “quick view” to dispatch. I remember being assigned to “recon” a structure file, a few times and report back to the ranking officer on scene. And mind you, in those days we had two radios: one fixed in the apparatus and one for the person in the right seat. Thankfully, we’ve come a long way since then!</p>
<p>For this special “Panel Discussion” episode of “5-alarm Task Force,” I am joined my Commissioner Jared Renshaw, Battalion Chief Andy Starnes, Captain Andrew Roach and Lt. Jason Liska; four, season and well-experienced officers. Together, we discuss the critical importance of the good report; preferably one derived from a 360. We concede that there will be occasions where a quick, “windshield” size-up will be expedient to expedite an initial ops plan; however it must be followed up with a more complete size-up, 360 preferred, if possible. Our discussion is backed-up by the results of numerous post-LODD NIOSH reports.</p>
<p>While my guests and I always believe that every episode is a “learning tool” for the listener, this panel and I see this episode as one that is as important for the line firefighter as it is for the chief officer. This one might very well save a firefighter’s life.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>PLEASE tune in on your favorite podcast platform or at <a href="http://www.dalmatianproductions.tv">www.dalmatianproductions.tv</a>.<a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3765324812?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3765324812?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>Big Challengers - Small Departmentstag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-12-04:889755:BlogPost:67024702019-12-04T18:46:43.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3755098196?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-full" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3755098196?profile=RESIZE_710x"></img></a> Many of us in the fire service believe that, for the most part, most fire departments in North America are the same, other than size and run numbers, with some being career and others volunteer. Part of that broad statement is that many of us still face major organizational problems. How we deal with them might make a difference.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Chief Stan…</p>
<p><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3755098196?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3755098196?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a>Many of us in the fire service believe that, for the most part, most fire departments in North America are the same, other than size and run numbers, with some being career and others volunteer. Part of that broad statement is that many of us still face major organizational problems. How we deal with them might make a difference.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Chief Stan Metcalfe of the Beaverlodge Fire Dept., in Alberta Canada explains that while many departments might have similar problems, it is how we approach these problems that can often set one department apart from others. In this podcast, Chief Metcalfe breaks his topic into three segments, “Setting Expectations for Success,” “Developing a Leadership Culture,” and “Maintaining Momentum Through Training.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Each of these sections is easily applicable to most departments across North America, especially our volunteer departments. As you listen to Chief Metcalfe, don’t be surprised if what he discusses sounds like your firehouse! Better yet, the Chief offers concrete suggestions for overcoming the obstacles discussed. Think about it, then pass it on!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>PLEASE TUNE IN at <a href="http://www.dalmatianproductions.tv">www.dalmatianproductions.tv</a> or on your favorite podcast platform.</p>The Africa Fire Mission: A First Hand Look Into Firefighting In a Third World Countrytag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-12-04:889755:BlogPost:67024582019-12-04T04:30:00.000ZTyler Praterhttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/TylerPrater
<p> Today I sat at a local bar slightly overwhelmed at all the choices I had. 12 different beers, 30 different liquors, a wonderful bar food selection. A nice climate controlled facility and a theoretically infinite tap water supply to refill drinks and wash the dishes. For the last 15 days I was in the East African Country of Kenya. A country that presents with a population of 47.5 million people and a land area that could fit inside of the state of Texas.<br></br> <br></br> Our first night…</p>
<p> Today I sat at a local bar slightly overwhelmed at all the choices I had. 12 different beers, 30 different liquors, a wonderful bar food selection. A nice climate controlled facility and a theoretically infinite tap water supply to refill drinks and wash the dishes. For the last 15 days I was in the East African Country of Kenya. A country that presents with a population of 47.5 million people and a land area that could fit inside of the state of Texas.<br/> <br/> Our first night began with a group of 20 red eyed fire department professionals from all over the country providing many different backgrounds and experience levels. The one thing we all shared was the motivation to make a difference in the fire service of East Africa. We all came together to mentor, train and empower the firefighters from Kenya, a country that has been an epidemic of corruption and poverty for many years. In the last 10 years the fire service climate in Kenya has improved dramatically with the help of many different organizations. The country is currently facing a lot of the same problems as fire departments in the United States, but on a more dramatic scale. The lack of financial support and manpower plague the country worse than any agency in the U.S. could fathom.<br/> <br/> For the last 6 months Dave and Nancy Moore of the Africa Fire Mission, a not for profit based out of Cincinnati, Ohio has led 20 motivated firefighters in the preparation of tactical fire training, leadership and community fire prevention courses. Equipment and facilities were requested to be available for the training symposium through partners made in past trips with hopes of making the training as seamless as possible.<br/> <br/> A few short months later the first day of the 2019 Kenya Fire And EMS Symposium finally arrived. At the minimal cost of 1000 Kenya Schillings (approx. $10) per department the training attracted over 380 Kenyan firefighters. The instructors arrived bright and early to the Kenyan Airport Authority’s Fire Training Facility to find makeshift tents littering the grounds to act as classrooms. A building on the grounds also provided 2 traditional classrooms inside of a very outdated building that was not equipped with electricity or the appropriate amount of space for classes of this scale. The team arrived to find a facility without fire engines, non existent cars for vehicle extrication training and make believe buildings to provide for structural firefighting drills. This would soon develop into our biggest challenge and presented our team with the reality of the conditions the Kenyan fire service faced.<br/> <br/> Our first day came to be a shocking experience. After months of preparation and many emails to the Kenyan Authorities requesting equipment, the team was overcome with aggravation knowing that we traveled halfway across the world to find the equipment we requested for teaching was not secured yet. The robust and motivated attitudes of the American firefighters were met with the Kenyan motto of Hakuna Matata meaning "no worries." This led to a friendly clash of American and Kenyan cultures. As firefighters always do, we put our minds together and made adaptations to our lesson plans the best we could. I quickly realized that the Fire and EMS Symposium is the equivalent of FDIC here in the United States. Many Kenyans traveled far and wide some even hitchhiking to the capitol city of Nairobi to attend. The team spent the rest of the day trying to pull this training event out of a spiraling nose dive.<br/> <br/> The next day started off about the same, but thanks to some contacts made with the KAA Fire Department we were able to obtain a Platform Aerial, a Rosenbauer rescue truck and some equipment from Nairobi County Fire Brigade. Most of the equipment here in Kenya has been donated by Poland and Japan which posed our next challenge. My colleagues and I soon found ourselves staring into the Kenyan Pumpers in disbelief. All of the discharges read in a different language, pressures in Metric and flows in Liters Per Minute. Traditional pre-connects and hose loads were replaced with quick connect couplings and donut rolls. After a night of some local Tusker Lager and our friend Google, conversion charts were downloaded and we once again adapted and overcame.<br/> <br/> Days 3 and 4 were hands on tasks. We were able to obtain a 200 foot life safety rope from the Kenya military to talk though some basic rope rescue drills. We utilized the classrooms as compartments for Vent Enter Search training and went over basic PPE orientation. We used junk laying around the facility to talk about heavy lifting and breaching. We pressured our Kenyan partners to keep working on obtaining some junk vehicles for extrication. Lastly, the pump operations class worked on water supply and duties of the fire engine operator. Things were finally starting to come along.<br/> <br/> Day 5 started with much surprise, with the arrival of a solo junk car for us to utilize in a extrication demo and car fire evolution. What we did miss out on was the apparent struggle to get the car. In Kenya there is no such thing as “junk.” This became very apparent to us on our visit to the informal settlements in Mathare Valley where homes were being constructed out of anything that the people could get their hands on. Even a cruise down the overly congested Kenyan Highways were enough to drive home the fact that these people made riches out of ruins. Everything was re-purposed, refurbished and never just simply thrown away. The Kenya Airport Authority had to actually purchase us a car at market value In promise that the car would be returned so it could be recycled. The team started the day off with some basic rescue techniques to include persons trapped under vehicles, unconventional lifting techniques and basic vehicle firefighting strategies. This offered yet another look into the status of the countries firefighters. It was very obvious that the majority of these firefighters have never participated in a live fire evolution. Safety and incident command were non existent. Talk about one of my most stressful days as a safety officer. Firefighters showed up with improper PPE, running on the fire ground<a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3754204361?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3754204361?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-left"/></a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3754206639?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3754206639?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center"/></a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3754207864?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3754207864?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3754208191?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3754208191?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3754209390?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3754209390?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3754209755?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3754209755?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/>an</a>d taking very unnecessary risks. This took a great deal of mentoring and even more patience from the instructors to get these firefighters pointed in the right direction. After a stressful morning the instructors got to have a little bit of fun and put on a extrication demo. This was something that was not trained on often due to the lack of vehicles to practice with. The team demonstrated typical door and roof removals, ending with a dash lift. During the demonstration one of Kenyans asked how long the team had been working together, as we all knew what needed to be done and worked together to achieve it. The truth of the matter was that we had not worked together at all. It was that we all possessed the same baseline training and skills on how to work together. This simple observation really demonstrates how much help the fire service needs here in Kenya.<br/> <br/> We ended the day by putting some of our frustrations to rest by burning what was left of the car as part of a simulated MCI drill that incorporated the EMS classes and fire classes together. The first drill of its kind in Kenya that incorporated fire and EMS together. This led to some very concerned looks from the Kenyan Airport Authority as their car was now cut into 30 pieces and currently on fire. The KAA was trying not to accept the fact that they weren’t going to be able to return the car in the condition that was negotiated.<br/> <br/> Day 6 was a fire and EMS competition with crews from counties across Kenya competing in a simulated fire suppression and EMS event. The crews were judged in incident command, hose deployment and overall management of the incident. The scenario was a report of a dwelling fire with people trapped. The responding firefighters were faced with a 300 foot hose line stretch with a working fire in a makeshift hut, with rescues to be made in an adjacent building. The firefighters were to rescue the victims and turn them over to EMS, another first of its kind training. Watching the crews work was almost bizarre. The Kenyan fire trucks take after the British style with no Pre-connected Hose lines and only enough hand tools to properly equip 1 person. Incident commanders operated without radios, firefighters without SCBAs. But just as firefighters always do they adapted and overcame and showed us how they make it all work.<br/> <br/> <br/> All in all, this was one of the most challenging moments of my life and career and the most rewarding. An 18 hour flight to a third world country to teach firefighters with little to no formal training sounded bizarre then and still sounds bizarre now. 20 firefighters from across the United States and one from Poland came together under overwhelming odds with one purpose and we would all do it again in the blink of an eye. To have this opportunity to spread knowledge and to engage in a brotherhood that truly holds no boundaries has been overwhelmingly humbling.<br/> <br/> For more Information or to support the Africa Fire Mission, please visit<br/> <a href="http://Www.africafiremission.org">Www.africafiremission.org</a><br/> <br/> <br/> Tyler Prater<br/> Firefighter-Paramedic<br/> <br/> St. Louis, Mo.</p>Firefighter Health initiatives in Canadatag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-11-22:889755:BlogPost:67020722019-11-22T19:24:55.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p><strong><u>Episode 4-12 – Bradley Davidson, CFEI – Firefighter Health Initiatives in Canada</u></strong></p>
<p>Brad Davidson is a Canadian Fire Executive with 38 years serving, “Mrs. Smith.” Brad has a strong love and passion for the fire service, underscored by his years of experience and his certifications. Through out chats on Twitter and by phone, I shared my passion regarding the Fire Service Cancer Initiative with him. And with that, he was off and running.</p>
<p>He has done several…</p>
<p><strong><u>Episode 4-12 – Bradley Davidson, CFEI – Firefighter Health Initiatives in Canada</u></strong></p>
<p>Brad Davidson is a Canadian Fire Executive with 38 years serving, “Mrs. Smith.” Brad has a strong love and passion for the fire service, underscored by his years of experience and his certifications. Through out chats on Twitter and by phone, I shared my passion regarding the Fire Service Cancer Initiative with him. And with that, he was off and running.</p>
<p>He has done several years of research since our first conversation on the topic and has tried to be as proactive as possible in promoting the Initiative in Canada. Yet, outside of the country’s major metropolitan areas, it is still a “tough sell.” But that won’t be a hindrance to Brad.</p>
<p>Join us as we talk about our friendship and his strong efforts to support and spread the word on both the Cancer and Behavioral Health Initiatives in our neighbor to the north.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>PLEASE TUNE IN at <a href="http://www.dalmatianproductions.tv">www.dalmatianproductions.tv</a> or on your favorite podcast platform.<a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3731894111?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3731894111?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>Front Bumper Hose Loadstag:my.firefighternation.com,2011-07-08:889755:BlogPost:58559412011-07-08T12:00:33.000ZTimothy J. Gaffney, Jr.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/TimothyJGaffneyJr
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"><img alt="" height="540" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974448485?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" style="WIDTH: 422px; HEIGHT: 345px" width="628"></img> At work, one of my senior firefighters decided to perfect the front bumper hose loads on one of our engines. One compartment holds 15' of 5" with a rubber mallet, universal hydrant wrench, and two LDH spanners. The second compartment contains 100' of 1 3/4" line that's pre-connected with a TFT adjustable nozzle. There's been a hundred different ways of packing it but my senior firefighter found a user friendly hose load for both hoses.…</p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"><img width="721" style="WIDTH: 422px; HEIGHT: 345px" alt="" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974448485?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="628" height="540"/>At work, one of my senior firefighters decided to perfect the front bumper hose loads on one of our engines. One compartment holds 15' of 5" with a rubber mallet, universal hydrant wrench, and two LDH spanners. The second compartment contains 100' of 1 3/4" line that's pre-connected with a TFT adjustable nozzle. There's been a hundred different ways of packing it but my senior firefighter found a user friendly hose load for both hoses.</p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"> </p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left">The attack line flat loaded in the compartment. The way it's done is two folds down and two rows wide. Then you make your first set of loops that are about a forearm long (make it enough to get the largest arm through it and compensate the bunker coat we all wear). After you make your first set of loops for both sides, make another two folds down and two rows wide and form another set of loops. The key to loading this hoseline is at every third section make your loops. Two down and the loop is the rule of thumb. After it's loaded, place the nozzle on top of the hose in the closed and ready position as shown.</p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"> </p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left">Next is the 15' of 5". Connect one end to the front suction, which would be faced perpendicular to the compartment. Lay the hose into the compartment and making sure there's slack and not pulled tight as it's laid down at each corner. Have a small loop (maybe half of the attack line's fold) opposite of the front suction. Then start making another fold inside the actual compartment. Continue folding until the open end of the hose ends up facing opposite from the front suction. Make sure to place the "wings" of the hydrant connector on top of the compartment's sides to ensure it'll not become snagged when it's deployed. Then disconnect the other end of the hose that's connected to the front suction and fold it so that the end is facing the front suction. You can have the fold laid out or tucked under the hydrant connection end of the hose.</p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"> </p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left">The reason that the 5" isn't preconnected to the front suction because it'll block one of the headlights and it's in the "crush zone" for the cab when it's lifted during daily checks. </p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"> </p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left">Again, this is another idea if you have any problems with your front bumper load(s) and don't have alot of room to work with. Keep safe!</p>Oklahoma City Bombing - Out of Chaostag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-11-18:889755:BlogPost:67014902019-11-18T15:19:01.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>This is the 11<sup>th</sup> episode of my fourth season of “5-Alarm Task Force.” I will honestly say that this episode is one of, if not THE best episode we have ever produced. It is informative, tragic and dark, yet also demonstrates inner strength and recovery.</p>
<p>My guest is Chris Fields, a retired Major with the Oklahoma City Fire Dept. While his name may not be familiar, a world-famous photo of him carrying the body of a toddler killed in the bombing of the Federal Building on April…</p>
<p>This is the 11<sup>th</sup> episode of my fourth season of “5-Alarm Task Force.” I will honestly say that this episode is one of, if not THE best episode we have ever produced. It is informative, tragic and dark, yet also demonstrates inner strength and recovery.</p>
<p>My guest is Chris Fields, a retired Major with the Oklahoma City Fire Dept. While his name may not be familiar, a world-famous photo of him carrying the body of a toddler killed in the bombing of the Federal Building on April 19, 1995, may jog your memory.</p>
<p>Chris shares his story from his first day as a rookie, his ongoing journey growing as a firefighter and then, through the tragedy of the bombing and through the deep and dark segment of his life, as he suffers AND successfully recovers from PTSD. PLEASE listen and KEEP this podcast. I guaranty that you will learn from it and, it might help you if you find yourself in a similar position.</p>
<p>PLEASE TUNE IN at <a href="http://www.dalmatianproductions.tv" target="_self">www.dalmatianproductions.tv</a> or on your favorite podcast platform.<a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3718679301?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3718679301?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>Fireground Smarts!tag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-11-01:889755:BlogPost:67008892019-11-01T13:39:19.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>If you have a year or two more “under your belt” you know that learning in a classroom is nothing compared with learning on an active fireground. A good firefighter is ready for almost anything as he/she dismounts from the apparatus, because the fireground is an ever-evolving, ever-changing, location with massive changes that can occur in just seconds. And if you’re not ready for it……</p>
<p>My guest on this episode is Lt. Mike Daley. He is a nationally known instructor and writer for the…</p>
<p>If you have a year or two more “under your belt” you know that learning in a classroom is nothing compared with learning on an active fireground. A good firefighter is ready for almost anything as he/she dismounts from the apparatus, because the fireground is an ever-evolving, ever-changing, location with massive changes that can occur in just seconds. And if you’re not ready for it……</p>
<p>My guest on this episode is Lt. Mike Daley. He is a nationally known instructor and writer for the trades. With over 30 years on the job, Mike knows this business and he knows the fireground. Mike shares that knowledge with us, discussing both the basics about the fireground, then moving to the size-up and finally, going into action with the knowledge you’ve gained from his first two segments.</p>
<p>This episode is truly a teachable “moment” for every firefighter and every line officer. Sure, you may have heard some of this before, but you will hear it differently today!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>PLEASE TUNE IN at <a href="http://www.dalmatianproductions.tv">www.dalmatianproductions.tv</a> or on your favorite podcast platform.</p>
<p>#fireground #smarts</p>Fireground Size-up - What Do You See?"tag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-10-07:889755:BlogPost:66987212019-10-07T14:18:54.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>One of the most important numbers in our business is 360! It has been drilled into us that upon arrival at a call for smoke and/or fire, the first arriving officer should make as complete an inspection of the structure/scene, as is possible. Then, the officer gives the crew initial instructions to mitigate the issue. What does that officer see? What’s involved? What needs to be done first. All of this is part of what we call the “size-up.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My guest is Chief Mike Terpak,…</p>
<p>One of the most important numbers in our business is 360! It has been drilled into us that upon arrival at a call for smoke and/or fire, the first arriving officer should make as complete an inspection of the structure/scene, as is possible. Then, the officer gives the crew initial instructions to mitigate the issue. What does that officer see? What’s involved? What needs to be done first. All of this is part of what we call the “size-up.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My guest is Chief Mike Terpak, recently retired from the Jersey City Fire Department, where he served as Deputy Chief and Citywide Tour Commander. With over forty years of experience, especially in one of the most intensely populated cities in the nation, there is little that the Chief has not seen! Listen as the Chief describes several challenging calls that he responded to.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We discuss how his most recent book, “Fireground Size-Up” (Second Edition) was actually “born” when he was a rookie firefighter and began to use notebooks to keep track of calls, what had to be done and how they would accomplish their task. Those notebooks piled up over the years and finally led to the Chief sharing his knowledge and experience in a manner that would benefit any firefighter who would read it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tune in at <a href="http://www.dalmatianproductions.tv">www.dalmatianproductions.tv</a> or on your favorite podcast platform.<a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3650107032?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3650107032?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a></p>How Do They Do It???tag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-09-23:889755:BlogPost:66973322019-09-23T14:26:37.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>We have all seen the news footage – huge wildfires consuming large areas in California. Last year, major fires like the Woolsey and Camp fires, destroyed thousands of acres of woodland, thousands of homes and disrupted the lives of tens of thousands of residents. And, in almost every newsreel, you saw firefighters and other first responders, doing tasks, such as fighting the fires, clearing a fire line, help escaping residents and much more. It begs the question, “How does California…</p>
<p>We have all seen the news footage – huge wildfires consuming large areas in California. Last year, major fires like the Woolsey and Camp fires, destroyed thousands of acres of woodland, thousands of homes and disrupted the lives of tens of thousands of residents. And, in almost every newsreel, you saw firefighters and other first responders, doing tasks, such as fighting the fires, clearing a fire line, help escaping residents and much more. It begs the question, “How does California organize thousands of firefighters and other personnel to have them all respond to these fires?”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My guest on this episode of “5-Alarm Task Force” is FF/PM/Eng Brad Bihun. Brad is a firefighter, paramedic and engineer in Southern CA. However, he is also trained as a PIO – Public Information Officer, for CAL Fire, the state’s special fire coordination department. Brad explains to us how the state uses six Incident Management Teams to rally all the forces needed for both mitigating an incident and caring for the people effected by it. Last year, one of these major fires required over 8,000 men and women, with various responsibilities, to handle the emergency and its ramifications.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Brad provides many insights into how the third-largest state in the U.S., is able to organize responses to certain emergencies that most of us, hopefully, will never see, yet are all too common in California! Tune in on your favorite podcast platform or at <a href="http://www.dalmatianproductions.tv" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.dalmatianproductions.tv</a><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3605680959?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3605680959?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-full"/></a>.</p>"5-Alarm Task Force" - Episode 4-6 - Chief Shawn Oke - Using Enhanced Watertag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-09-19:889755:BlogPost:66971282019-09-19T13:28:36.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>For as long as there have been people, fire and those willing to quench unexpected issues from fire, the basic tenet was “put the wet stuff on the red stuff!” Of course, there were no “classes” given to what was burning until many years later. And to be honest, that premise worked. However, in the last fifty years or so, one of the key issues that has changed is WHAT is burning and what is the safest and most expedient way to snuff these more modern flames.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>On this podcast,…</p>
<p>For as long as there have been people, fire and those willing to quench unexpected issues from fire, the basic tenet was “put the wet stuff on the red stuff!” Of course, there were no “classes” given to what was burning until many years later. And to be honest, that premise worked. However, in the last fifty years or so, one of the key issues that has changed is WHAT is burning and what is the safest and most expedient way to snuff these more modern flames.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>On this podcast, my guest Chief (ret) Shawn Oke of the Albemarle NC Fire Dept. and a co-founder of the educational effort, “Kill the Flashover.” With nearly thirty years in the fire service, one of Chief Oke’s passion is the use of foam, or for a more accurate description, using “enhanced water streams” for Class A fires, some of which can be utilized when fighting either Class A or Class B fires.*</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tune in as Chief Oke explains the background and development of this relatively modern way of fighting the types of fires we see most of the time and why, your department’s investment in this practice will yield swifter dousing of the flames, less damage to the property and most importantly, the firefighters having exposure time to the dangerous carcinogenic and other toxic particles created in these fires and their heat.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Find us on your favorite podcast platform or on our website, <a href="http://www.dalmatianproductions.tv." target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.dalmatianproductions.tv.</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>*Class A fires deal with house fires, paper, wood, etc. Class B fires deal with hydrocarbon-based products such as flammable liquids, i.e., gas, oil, kerosene, etc.</p>What's Up on the "5-Alarm Task Force" Podcast!tag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-09-18:889755:BlogPost:66966322019-09-18T13:49:54.000Z5-Alarm Task Force Corp.https://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DalmatianProductionsInc
<p>Does your department have a plan in place for its future? Do you know when your current apparatus will be deemed out-of-date and how they will be replaced? Tune in to our latest episode with my guest, Capt. John Dixon. Captain Dixon discusses the importance of having a Strategic Vision Plan for your department and provides guidance on how to start the process. Tune in via your favorite podcast platform or on our website,…</p>
<p>Does your department have a plan in place for its future? Do you know when your current apparatus will be deemed out-of-date and how they will be replaced? Tune in to our latest episode with my guest, Capt. John Dixon. Captain Dixon discusses the importance of having a Strategic Vision Plan for your department and provides guidance on how to start the process. Tune in via your favorite podcast platform or on our website, <a href="http://www.dalmatianproductions.tv." target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.dalmatianproductions.tv.</a></p>
<p>Also coming up in the coming week, Chief (ret) Shawn Oke, of the Albemarle NC Fire Dept. and a co-founder of Kill the Flashover, discusses the benefits of using enhanced water for many types of fires.</p>
<p>Last year, we saw the terrible wildfires in both Southern and Northern California. Coming up, CA FF/Eng. Brad Bihun drops by to explain the CAL Fire Ops and how fire departments and their personnel come together to fighter these blazing monsters.</p>
<p>To learn more about the "5-Alarm Task Force" podcast, signup for our newsletter on our home page. Never any spam and we do not and will not sell of give away your email address!</p>
<p>Stay Safe & Stay Well!</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>Leaders Eat Lasttag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-09-10:889755:BlogPost:66961472019-09-10T23:32:14.000ZMichael DeStefanohttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/MichaelDeStefano
<p><span><b>Leaders Eat Last</b></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span>Anyone that has ever broken bread together in the fire house knows that there are certain traditions that take place around this most sacred of times. These include things such as, the seat facing the TV is most likely the Lieutenant’s, or rookie has kitchen…always… even if they didn’t cook. But there is another tradition that should be taking place, leaders eat last.…</span></p>
<p><span><b>Leaders Eat Last</b></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span>Anyone that has ever broken bread together in the fire house knows that there are certain traditions that take place around this most sacred of times. These include things such as, the seat facing the TV is most likely the Lieutenant’s, or rookie has kitchen…always… even if they didn’t cook. But there is another tradition that should be taking place, leaders eat last.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span>Everyone that knows me understands that I have the not so unique ability to become hangry. As a powerlifter I consume a large amount of calories on a daily basis and get a bit moody when I don’t eat “on time”. Everyone that has ever invited me to their station or been on my crew also knows that despite my incredible hulk hangry demeanor, I always eat last. Is this because I like to test my ability to remain calm? Or is it because I want to strike fear into those around the table? Nope, it is because I consider myself a leader and they are MY crews.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span>So what does it mean to “eat last”? We have all heard the term servant leadership and despite what everyone wants to believe, not every leader is a servant leader. A servant leader is the person who puts themselves last in line to provide the tools and the resources for their team members to succeed at what ever task they are handed. The servant leader puts his or her own projects and agendas on the side to help those around them accomplish their projects.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span>Leaders eat last is more than just allowing the crew to eat dinner before you. However, I do believe this is the easiest task to start with and have seen many Lieutenants that I consider great leaders inadvertently doing this very thing. Allowing their crews to eat before them in case they get a call or there is not enough food to go around sets the example that the leader is there to support them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span>A servant leader needs to look at the goals of their employees as their number one focus. Helping their crews take on and accomplish challenges. Leading the organization to meet its overall goal by helping the employees they oversee to rise up to the challenge, feel empowered, and provide the resources to succeed. When our crews are successful, we as leaders are successful. You can have 500 ribbons pinned to your uniform with a certificate and degree from every university that exists. But if your crews are not successful at their goals, you are nothing more than a leader of one.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span>So what kind of leader are you? Are you the one that jumps up when the dinner bell is rang to make sure you get the best burger or to make sure you get your serving of potatoes before they run out? Or are you the one that sits back to make sure the crew is fed before you sit down to eat? I suggest you take a hard look at how you lead your companies and employees and make sure that you are eating last.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><span>-Lieutenant Michael DeStefano<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>Notes from a Rookie Firefightertag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-09-01:889755:BlogPost:66942692019-09-01T11:33:23.000ZDenise Imperialehttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/DeniseBroesler
<p>It’s been many years since I blogged on this site. Feeling nostalgic on the anniversary of my daughter’s death, I went to Google to read her obit and stumbled upon my old blog and the posting I wrote when she died. I saw a post from a FFN supporter, Brian M., and it brought me back to the memories of support and guidance I have had within the FD and even through this blog. </p>
<p></p>
<p>I’m two years from 60 so my work for the FD is now social media manager so to speak, and officers…</p>
<p>It’s been many years since I blogged on this site. Feeling nostalgic on the anniversary of my daughter’s death, I went to Google to read her obit and stumbled upon my old blog and the posting I wrote when she died. I saw a post from a FFN supporter, Brian M., and it brought me back to the memories of support and guidance I have had within the FD and even through this blog. </p>
<p></p>
<p>I’m two years from 60 so my work for the FD is now social media manager so to speak, and officers secretary. Many of the old timers I mentioned in my posts have gone now. The FD is so different now and I try not to compare the old days to the new. </p>
<p></p>
<p>My my life has been on track by the grace of God and I’m getting married to a wonderful man who happened to be one of my instructors at the Academy so long ago. Proves there were many reasons God put the need to serve within the FD in my heart so long ago, and that things pure and good still happen.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Not sure if anyone is reading this, but hope everyone stays safe out there. You are in my prayers.</p>
<p></p>
<p>D</p>How do you define successful promotion, Topic 3tag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-07-15:889755:BlogPost:66919462019-07-15T12:56:52.000ZJeff Armstronghttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/JeffArmstrong211
<p class="p1"><span class="s1"><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3282880794?profile=original" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3282880794?profile=RESIZE_710x"></img></a></span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Often, a successful promotion is defined by scoring high on a test, doing well in an assessment center, or even simply getting the position.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> However, the “work” does not stop the day we achieve the rank and a successful promotion is not solely…</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1"><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3282880794?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3282880794?profile=RESIZE_710x" class="align-center"/></a></span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Often, a successful promotion is defined by scoring high on a test, doing well in an assessment center, or even simply getting the position.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> However, the “work” does not stop the day we achieve the rank and a successful promotion is not solely defined by obtaining new collar brass. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> A successful promotion is also defined by our ongoing efforts, after assuming the new role or rank.</span></p>
<p class="p2"></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Five important areas to focus after assuming a new leadership role are:<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> continue to be a student of your position and its responsibility, develop your leadership abilities while building trust, build and maintain your credibility, identify and develop key relationships, and lastly, recognize this promotion is not about you.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> In my series of posts on this topic, I will discuss these five concepts and share tips on how to be successful in these areas.</span></p>
<p class="p1"></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Topic #3: Building Credibility: </span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Building credibility seemingly becomes more important as we climb the ranks and assume more leadership roles in our organizations.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> While to many it becomes a focus as they seek to promote, or after promotion, building your credibility really begins your first day on the job.</span></p>
<p class="p2"></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">As I mentioned in my previous post, credibility is equal parts character and competence.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> Character can be one of the most influential traits to our success as leaders, yet, is not always a top priority.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> Your character is built on your integrity and intent.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> While both are important and critical to our credibility, I believe integrity to be one of the most important characteristics of a leader, and the single most important ingredient in building credibility and trust.</span></p>
<p class="p2"></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Integrity isn’t simply ‘doing the right thing when no one is looking’.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> On the surface, that statement simply addresses actions or behavior, not a mental state or commitment to a philosophy.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> Several years ago, I was conducting a firefighter/paramedic “Chiefs interview”.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> This particular candidate had been highly successful in the testing process and was before for me for consideration.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> I asked him several questions as part of the process; however, to this day, only one question stands out.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> I asked him, “what does integrity mean to you?”.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> Without much a pause he answered (paraphrased), “I believe it’s about holding yourself accountable”. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> He went on to elaborate and answer the question very well; however, his first statement is all I remember to this day.</span></p>
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<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Depending on the source, or the article you read, you will see many tips for building credibility - some are character traits while others are leadership techniques. However, they all have one common theme: holding yourself accountable.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> So what does holding yourself accountable look like?<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> This shouldn’t imply only admitting failures (although it can).<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> It is more about committing to personal growth and being the best version of yourself for your organization and community.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> Accountability starts with having a personal strategic plan.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> Like any strategic plan, it will start out by identifying a mission, vision and values. Goals will be set with associated key performance indicators.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> External input should also be included.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> This can be your peers or a group of mentors you have surrounded yourself with.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> And lastly, it should include a comprehensive SWOT analysis.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> While this personal strategic plan may not be a formal document, I do recommend documenting your growth and defining your personal vision, mission and values.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> With this, you will begin to get an accurate picture of yourself as a Leader that will enable you to hold yourself accountable.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
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<p class="p1"><span class="s1">When you break down the equal parts of credibility and you examine the four “cores” (Integrity, Intent, Capabilities and Results), Integrity will always rise to the top as it influences everything we are, and everything we do.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> Therefore, I believe it is the cornerstone to credibility.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> If you choose to seek to build your credibility, in your Organization and in your community, you must first commit to holding yourself accountable.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p>
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<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Next up: Topic 4, Don’t make your promotion about you.</span></p>
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<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Bio:</span><span class="s1"> </span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">I currently serve as the Fire Chief for the Rio Vista Fire Department in Northern California. I lead a City Fire Department, and under contract, am the Fire Chief of a neighboring Fire District. I have worked in a number of Organizations, both full-time paid Departments and combination Departments. With a wide variety of experience in the promotional process on both sides of the table, and experience being an external candidate, I am able to speak from personal experience on many of these topics. I have also been given the opportunity to mentor many though the promotional process and beyond. </span></p>
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<p class="p1"><span class="s1">I am designated as a CFO (Chief Fire Officer) from the Center for Public Safety Excellence, hold a B.S. in Public Safety Administration, an A.S. in Fire Science and am a certified Chief Officer through California State Fire Training. </span></p>How Do You Define Successful Promotion?tag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-06-08:889755:BlogPost:66895142019-06-08T16:45:04.000ZJeff Armstronghttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/JeffArmstrong211
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<p>Often, a successful promotion is defined by scoring high on a test, doing well in an assessment center, or even merely getting the position. However, the “work” does not stop the day we achieve the rank, and successful promotion is not solely defined by obtaining new collar brass. Successful promotion is also characterized by our ongoing efforts,…</p>
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<p>Often, a successful promotion is defined by scoring high on a test, doing well in an assessment center, or even merely getting the position. However, the “work” does not stop the day we achieve the rank, and successful promotion is not solely defined by obtaining new collar brass. Successful promotion is also characterized by our ongoing efforts, after assuming the new role or rank.</p>
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<p>Five essential areas to focus after assuming a new leadership role are: continue to be a student of your position and its responsibility, develop your leadership abilities while building trust, build and maintain your credibility, identify and develop key relationships, and lastly, recognize this promotion is not about you. </p>
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<p>In my series of posts on this topic, I will discuss these five concepts and share tips on how to be successful in these areas.</p>
<p> #1. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Be a student of your new position:</span></p>
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<p>Achieving promotion often requires much studying, attendance in many classes, and several forms of self-evaluation — all of which involves a significant investment in time, and usually money. However, are you making the same effort and investment concerning the position once you succeed in achieving that rank?</p>
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<p>Studying and self-evaluation is a big part of how we prepare for any promotional test. This can include classes, leadership symposiums, studying community demographics, target hazards, evaluating available resources, and reviewing the latest in tactics and strategies. However, after achieving promotion, it can be easy to lose sight of our performance at these levels and not maintain currency on changes. Succession planning is becoming a trend in the Fire Service and has positively impacted candidate preparedness for promotion; however, this process doesn’t always encourage incumbents to find ways to perform better at their level in the organization.</p>
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<p>We all have room for improvement at our current level, and we should be committed to becoming a better version of ourselves. We all have the opportunity to be a better leader, a better fire-ground commander, and a better individual; for our crew, community, and family. Each opportunity we get to be a better version of ourselves; Firefighter safety is increased; community risk is decreased and the chances of us returning to our families after shift goes up.</p>
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<p>Study your position, its role in the department and community, and its responsibilities. Commit to learning something new each day that will positively impact your organization. Evaluate yourself each shift and ask others to evaluate you often. This does not have to be a formal process or a (management 360) approach; instead, obtain informal input from peers and subordinates. Ask your supervisor, “what could I do better?” Ask our crew, “what are your expectations of me?”</p>
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<p>Build relationships with peers outside the organization and speak with them often. Ask them for an honest evaluation of you and your position. Share your challenges and obtain their input. In turn, they will do the same. These conversations will not only help you realize your problems are not unique; but, also provide an objective perspective that may help you make more informed decisions. This approach is considered mentoring and or coaching; however, this process reflects an effort to be a student regardless of your position.</p>
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<p>Post 1 of 5</p>
<p>Next up: Developing your leadership skills while building trust.</p>
<p></p>
<p><em><strong>Jeff Armstrong</strong> currently serves as the fire Chief for the Rio Vista Fire Department in Northern California. He leads a City Fire Department and under contract, serves as the Fire Chief of a neighboring Fire District. His background includes working in a number of Organizations, and leading both full-time paid Departments and combination Departments. With a wide variety of experience in the promotional process on both sides of the table and having mentored many candidates, he is able to speak from personal experience on the subject of promotions. </em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p><em>Chief Armstrong is designated as a CFO (Chief Fire Officer) from the Center for Public Safety Excellence, holds a B.S. in Public Safety Administration, an A.S. in Fire Science and is a certified Chief Officer through California State Fire Training. He has been a registered California State Fire Instructor since 2007. </em></p>
<p><a href="http://linkedin.com/in/jeff-armstrong-cfo-mifiree-ba9a0314b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact</a></p>
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<p></p>Luck, Love, and a little bit of hard work - Being New in the fire service.tag:my.firefighternation.com,2019-03-24:889755:BlogPost:66830312019-03-24T06:14:25.000ZTyler Praterhttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/TylerPrater
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<p>I was approached recently by a new fire academy graduate on how to be young and successful in the fire service. This made me really take a step back and think. I closed my eyes and flashed back. There I was, 20 years old motivated and ready as I started my first day of the Academy at my dream department. We were all wearing suits and ties looking sharp for our first day, so new that we weren’t even issued uniforms. I remember that day vividly. 40 new faces inside the training tower…</p>
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<p>I was approached recently by a new fire academy graduate on how to be young and successful in the fire service. This made me really take a step back and think. I closed my eyes and flashed back. There I was, 20 years old motivated and ready as I started my first day of the Academy at my dream department. We were all wearing suits and ties looking sharp for our first day, so new that we weren’t even issued uniforms. I remember that day vividly. 40 new faces inside the training tower excited for our new journey as city firemen. We had no clue of the brotherhood and adventure we were about to embark on. <br/> Fast forward some long days and short weeks later; It was my first day at the firehouse. I remember meeting all of the guys and in that first year we trained, we drilled, we went over equipment, we went over streets. I remember becoming part of a family. It was luck, love and a little bit of hard work. <br/> <br/> My advice to a new recruit? Be prideful yet humble, be knowledgeable yet competent. We owe it to ourselves to know our job inside and out. To never stay stagnant. To really push ourselves outside of our comfort zones. Learning our SOGs, putting tactics and skills to use on the fire-ground. Most of all doing our job. Don’t get caught up in the haters. You are going to be watched. Judged on your knowledge and ability. We owe it to ourselves and our citizens to be competent at what we do. Don’t become the 20 year recliner warrior, don’t become the “I have seniority on you” guy. Don’t become the guy with 20 first year experiences. Go above and beyond. Take pride in your job, make yourself a sponge, pick up on the good stuff. Learn what the bad stuff is and how you can learn from it. Learn your apparatus. Make things happen both on the job and off. It doesn’t just end at fireground competencies. It also includes being apart of the family too. Make yourself a part of the team. Get to know your crew, expand your horizons to this great American fire service we have. Get to know people from other departments, debate, make new friends and enjoy the company. Respect the Job and the people that have came before you. <br/> <br/> It all boils down to Attitude, pride and just having an absolute affection for this job. Leave this job better than you found it. Immerse yourself in this culture. Being a firefighter isn’t a job. It’s a lifestyle.<br/> <br/> And lastly have fun and enjoy this incredible life we live.<br/> <br/> Stay Humble. Stay Motivated. Love the Job. <br/> FTM-PTM-RFB<br/> <br/> Tyler Prater<br/> St. Louis Missouri</p>