Paul Combs - Fire Caroonist's Posts - My Firefighter Nation2024-03-19T06:36:04ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonisthttps://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1951601124?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1https://my.firefighternation.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=3ievfk9hmeejg&xn_auth=noTHE HIPSTER SOLUTIONtag:my.firefighternation.com,2018-04-10:889755:BlogPost:66266862018-04-10T11:30:57.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451282?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451282?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span>NEW Fire Rescue Magazine illustration: The Hipster Solution.</span></div>
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<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
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<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span>Having some fun with another Off Duty Rule cartoon at the expense of our man-bun brethren. All's good... live and let…</span></div>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451282?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451282?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full" width="750"/></a></p>
<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span>NEW Fire Rescue Magazine illustration: The Hipster Solution.</span></div>
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<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
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<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span>Having some fun with another Off Duty Rule cartoon at the expense of our man-bun brethren. All's good... live and let live!</span></div>
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<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
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<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span>STAY FIRED UP, but keep the saw warm just in case!</span></div>
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<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
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<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span>____</span></div>
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<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
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<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span>To see more Drawn By Fire, go to:</span></div>
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<div class=""><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><a href="http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm">http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm</a></span></div>
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</div>GHOSTStag:my.firefighternation.com,2018-01-14:889755:BlogPost:66244532018-01-14T17:21:07.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451416?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451416?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p><strong><u>Ghosts by Chief Jim Crawford<br></br><br></br></u></strong></p>
<p>“Which one of us are you going to tell him about?” What a powerful question to ask a firefighter. From the beginning of the fire service firefighters have seen sights that haunt them, and sometimes taunt them, for life. They are images that we as individual firefighters try to forget, ignore or…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451416?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451416?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full" width="750"/></a></p>
<p><strong><u>Ghosts by Chief Jim Crawford<br/><br/></u></strong></p>
<p>“Which one of us are you going to tell him about?” What a powerful question to ask a firefighter. From the beginning of the fire service firefighters have seen sights that haunt them, and sometimes taunt them, for life. They are images that we as individual firefighters try to forget, ignore or just want to go away, forever. But unfortunately those of us that have been given this ghost image burden will live with these horrible images for the rest of our lives. They are burned into our minds and memories like staring at a bright light then seeing the light pattern when you close your eyes. We will take the images home with us, to our children’s birthday parties, on Saturday date night with our significant other, to job interviews or a get together with friends. We will take them to bed with us at the end of each day tossing and turning as we try to forget, trying to shake the image loose from our minds. Thinking of something else only leads you back to ghosts from another scene, always there, always haunting.</p>
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<p>As we see other disasters and tragedy on news channels, we can only think of the new ghosts that our brothers or sisters on scene will have to endure. The brave and valiant attempts at rescue of those we are sworn to protect. And when we have done our utmost best, stretched our oath to the very end, we will have either won or lost, there is no in between. And it’s the losing that destroys each of us from within. The pain, the guilt, the overwhelming sense of failure. It can be too much to bear at times.</p>
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<p>My many ghosts have dwelled within me through a very long career. From infants burned into mattresses, to multiple child fatalities, those dragged from burning buildings that didn’t make it, and LODD firefighter fatalities. From the many motor vehicle accidents where the occupants weren’t extricated in time to the victims hit by trains. From working the body recovery team of a major commercial aircraft crash to the victims who jumped before you could throw the ground ladder. I grew up in a fire service when you didn’t ask for help nor show any signs of grief. I have lived with my ghosts without help and have learned how to deal with them in my own way. My family has suffered the most through my self-help psychiatry but that is the way I was taught to deal with the ghosts. I know better now.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Today’s fire service has many avenues to help cope with mental health. From organized Firefighter Assistance Teams (FAST) to employer based Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). We all must seek these avenues of help if life or our job is just too much to take. On the other hand, we also must encourage our co-workers and friends to seek this avenue of help if they are troubled. Keeping these important phone numbers available for yourself or others to share can be very beneficial when a crisis occurs. Local Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) teams are a very helpful and logical resource when a terrible tragedy occurs within your department or area. Sometimes these teams are capable of handling one on one counseling as well. You need to check into your local CISD or FAST teams to see what their capabilities are and to collect their emergency contact numbers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Many firefighters try to deal with these memories and images alone. As we often hear, the ones who usually suffer the most are those that are closest to us. Spouses, significant others, our children, family, and close friends all feel our images through our behavior; only they can’t see them like we do. Mood swings, anger, and becoming withdrawn are only a few of the ways that affect us. If we don’t get a grip on these dominos that begin to fall our lives will turn upside down. Many will turn to alcohol and illegal drugs, poor life decisions that will lead to divorce, breakups, termination, or jail. </p>
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<p>We often wonder why we subject ourselves to this and if the love of the job is what gets us through. Sadly the suicide rate within the fire service has made a very dramatic increase. The fire service has recently lost some great contributors over the past few years. It’s very clear that the sights, sounds, and smells of our job are affecting many more of us than we know. We must all encourage each other to talk out our ghosts and if that does not work to seek professional help. We must learn to identify the signs of depression as looking out for each other is the most important thing we can do. Simply lending a caring ear may often help those of us through a tough time. We hear the word brotherhood in our business spoken all too often. Those that give freely of themselves to lend a helping hand to those in need without complaint are the true heroes in our business. </p>
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<p>Being human is sometimes very difficult. Being human as a firefighter in front of other firefighters is even more difficult. Our tough guy mentality gets in the way of doing the right thing sometimes. We must support and push firefighter mental health to the forefront. Too many firefighters are dying at their own hands. The help and support must start with us first. The more you talk about what is bothering you the easier it is to rationalize what is going on. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>I believe that Paul Combs really depicted in this drawing what many of us feel. Reliving calls is something we all do. It can be a healthy release from the stress by using it as a training tool to realize whether our actions were correct or if we need improvement. Learning how to deal with the images we continue to see is the challenge. If you need help figuring out your ghosts please seek assistance now. You are only a phone call away from help.</p>
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<p>As firefighters we will continue to answer the call for help. Regardless of the danger we will always be there including the danger to our own mental health. One of my favorite bible verses as it would pertain to the fire service is Isaiah 6:8 which says; Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.”</p>
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<p>Firefighters are sent out to the call day in and day out. If your ghosts are troubling you seek out the help you need to continue to answer the call…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>James K. Crawford</p>
<p>Assistant Fire Chief</p>
<p>Midway Fire Rescue, SC</p>
<p>Assistant Fire Chief (Retired)</p>TAKE US TO YOUR LEADERSHIPtag:my.firefighternation.com,2017-11-06:889755:BlogPost:66181582017-11-06T16:28:48.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451604?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451604?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>It may be an unsolvable mystery.</p>
<p>NEW November Fire Rescue magazine editorial: Take Us To Your Leadership.</p>
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<div class="text_exposed_show"><p>To see more Drawn By Fire, go to:…<br></br></p>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451604?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451604?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full" width="750"/></a></p>
<p>It may be an unsolvable mystery.</p>
<p>NEW November Fire Rescue magazine editorial: Take Us To Your Leadership.</p>
<p>____</p>
<div class="text_exposed_show"><p>To see more Drawn By Fire, go to:<br/> <a href="http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm</a></p>
<p>____</p>
</div>CHIEF ALAN BRUNACINItag:my.firefighternation.com,2017-10-30:889755:BlogPost:66178982017-10-30T14:57:41.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452957?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452957?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a> My very first encounter with Chief Alan Brunacini was not what I would have hoped for. I was attending my first FDIC and was sitting through a presentation on how to submit articles to become a Fire Engineering author. Being the introvert that I am, I naturally sat in the back row while taking notes. Chief Lasky had already set the fire under my tuchas two days earlier to…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452957?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452957?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full" width="750"/></a>My very first encounter with Chief Alan Brunacini was not what I would have hoped for. I was attending my first FDIC and was sitting through a presentation on how to submit articles to become a Fire Engineering author. Being the introvert that I am, I naturally sat in the back row while taking notes. Chief Lasky had already set the fire under my tuchas two days earlier to make a difference, so I wanted all the info I could gather. About 15 minutes into the panel discussion and older gentleman wearing a brightly colored shirt shuffles in and sits next to me (leaving a polite empty chair between us). Not long after taking a seat, he fishes through his pocket to produce a small nail clipper - which he begins to use. I take all of about 20 seconds of this before I lean over and say "sir, do you mind?" - I'm sure my face was saying "dude, for Christ's sake, STOP!" As fate would have it, I called enough attention to the incident that Bill Manning (the head of Fire Engineering at the time), noticed the gentleman and said to all - “What a pleasure. Chief Brunacini - come on up and join us.”<br/> <br/> I knew the esteemed name of Chief Brunacini and the importance of his lessons, now I had met the man - I sunk as far as 6'1" could in an awkward plastic chair!<br/> <br/> After the presentation I was slinking out of the room trying to be as inconspicuous as possible when I felt a gentle slap on my back - I turned - and Chief Brunacini was standing there chuckling. Not a word was said... just those fatherly eyes... that snarky smile... and the quiet understanding that I was a novice in the land of legends.<br/> <br/> Nearly 14 years would pass before I would have an opportunity to teach at a conference with Chief Brunacini, and be honored to sit with him during a Q&A panel. Me… with Chief Brunacini … with Capt. Gagliano… talking fire (sound smart, sound smart, sound smart…)! <br/> <br/> I have a few more stories, but I share this one because of what it represents about the man and his mission - about his legacy. Take time to learn, to practice, to share, and to give. Take the moments that life gives you and learn from them, grow from them, and then move on to the next moment. He died doing what he loved to do, and knowing that makes me smile.<br/> <br/> This cartoon isn’t much, but it’s a small gesture to a larger than life man. Simply said, thank you for everything you gave us, Chief - we will pass it forward.<br/><br/><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452995?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452995?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full" width="750"/></a></p>SCARY THINGStag:my.firefighternation.com,2017-10-17:889755:BlogPost:66177422017-10-17T22:49:27.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452719?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452719?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full" width="750"/></a></p>
<p>NEW Fire/Rescue Magazine October editorial cartoon: Scary Things!</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452719?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452719?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full" width="750"/></a></p>
<p>NEW Fire/Rescue Magazine October editorial cartoon: Scary Things!</p>THE POLARIZATION PREDICAMENTtag:my.firefighternation.com,2017-09-12:889755:BlogPost:66155902017-09-12T14:34:25.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452846?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452846?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>NEW FireRescue Magazine editorial: The Polarizing Predicament.</span></span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>Way too much of this going on! It's something we are all guilty of from time to time, because it's so easy to be sucked into negativity instead of…</span></span></div>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452846?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452846?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full" width="750"/></a></p>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>NEW FireRescue Magazine editorial: The Polarizing Predicament.</span></span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>Way too much of this going on! It's something we are all guilty of from time to time, because it's so easy to be sucked into negativity instead of trying to solve the problem. It's harder to fix the dysfunctional group than it is to join them.</span></span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>Nothing gets solved if everybody is willing to continue the ship's destructive course - regardless of clearly seeing the iceberg ahead!</span></span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>STAY FIRED UP, and always treat each other with respect!</span></span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>____</span></span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>To see more Drawn By Fire, go to:</span></span></div>
</div>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span><a href="http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm">http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm</a></span></span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>____</span></span></div>
</div>FANTASIZEtag:my.firefighternation.com,2017-04-10:889755:BlogPost:66027742017-04-10T12:26:30.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451975?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451975?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Comply, or else!</p>
<p>STAY FIRED UP, and follow the code!</p>
<p><span class="text_exposed_show"><br></br> ____</span></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<div class="text_exposed_show"><p>Click here to see more of my work or order prints, go to:…<br></br></p>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451975?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974451975?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full" width="750"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Comply, or else!</p>
<p>STAY FIRED UP, and follow the code!</p>
<p><span class="text_exposed_show"><br/> ____</span></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<div class="text_exposed_show"><p>Click here to see more of my work or order prints, go to:<br/> <a href="http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm</a></p>
<p>Daily studio updates on Twitter<br/> <a href="https://twitter.com/paulcombsart" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://twitter.com/paulcombsart</a></p>
<p>Drawn By Fire Blog<br/> <a href="https://drawnbyfire.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://drawnbyfire.wordpress.com/</a></p>
</div>TATTOO TROUBLEtag:my.firefighternation.com,2016-09-12:889755:BlogPost:65880912016-09-12T12:47:34.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452808?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452808?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>Never get a tattoo you can’t see. Seems like good advice to me!</p>
<p></p>
<p>STAY FIRED UP, and smile!</p>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"></div>
<div class="_1mf _1mj">Click here to see more of my work or order prints, go to:…</div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"></div>
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<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452808?profile=original"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452808?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a></p>
<p>Never get a tattoo you can’t see. Seems like good advice to me!</p>
<p></p>
<p>STAY FIRED UP, and smile!</p>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"></div>
<div class="_1mf _1mj">Click here to see more of my work or order prints, go to:</div>
</div>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><a href="http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm" rel="nofollow">http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm</a></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj">____</div>
</div>ACRONYM AUTHORITYtag:my.firefighternation.com,2016-08-12:889755:BlogPost:65858572016-08-12T12:25:57.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452838?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452838?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>So many acronyms, so little time. Show me. Teach me. Tell me. Then get out of my way and trust that I know how to do it.</p>
<p>STAY FIRED UP!<br></br><br></br></p>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj">Click here to see more of my work or order prints, go to:…</div>
</div>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"></div>
</div>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452838?profile=original"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974452838?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a></p>
<p>So many acronyms, so little time. Show me. Teach me. Tell me. Then get out of my way and trust that I know how to do it.</p>
<p>STAY FIRED UP!<br/><br/></p>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj">Click here to see more of my work or order prints, go to:</div>
</div>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><a href="http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm" rel="nofollow">http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm</a></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"> </div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj">____</div>
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<p></p>PLACE YOUR BETS!tag:my.firefighternation.com,2016-07-20:889755:BlogPost:65829272016-07-20T23:02:54.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450957?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450957?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<div><div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>NEW July FireRescue magazine cartoon.</span></span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
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<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>You can try your luck and place your bets - just know the House always wins!…</span></span></div>
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<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450957?profile=original"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450957?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a></p>
<div><div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>NEW July FireRescue magazine cartoon.</span></span></div>
</div>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
</div>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>You can try your luck and place your bets - just know the House always wins!</span></span></div>
</div>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
</div>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>STAY FIRED UP!</span></span></div>
</div>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>____</span></span></div>
</div>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span> </span></div>
</div>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span>Click here to see more of my work or to order prints:</span></span></div>
</div>
<div><div class="_1mf _1mj"><span><span><a href="http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm">http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm</a></span></span></div>
</div>
</div>THE SPAGHETTI RETROSPECTIVEtag:my.firefighternation.com,2016-06-22:889755:BlogPost:65777502016-06-22T13:05:42.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449879?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449879?profile=original" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p class="BodyA">Training is not just for the bread and butter tasks, but to sharpen skills that we rarely use, too. This cartoon focuses on one of those tasks: standpipe training, tactics and operation. Are standpipes a resource that we use often? Most of us would probably say no. Is utilizing standpipe connections a real and present possibility? I think most would say…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449879?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449879?profile=original" width="750"/></a></p>
<p class="BodyA">Training is not just for the bread and butter tasks, but to sharpen skills that we rarely use, too. This cartoon focuses on one of those tasks: standpipe training, tactics and operation. Are standpipes a resource that we use often? Most of us would probably say no. Is utilizing standpipe connections a real and present possibility? I think most would say yes. So, why do we continually read about improper line stretches and mistakes? Well, it comes down to training and repetition, and taking time to pre-plan our response areas - to train in those facilities when possible – if nothing more than taking a tour and discussing the best course of action.</p>
<p class="BodyA"> </p>
<p class="BodyA">I could go on, but I’m going to yield the floor to Lieutenant Steve Robertson from the Columbus (OH) Division of Fire. Lt. Robertson has been teaching hose line tactics for many years, as well as being a national speaker and instructor on engine company tactics (including FDIC). So, I can think of no better person to share his thoughts and wisdom on this blog.</p>
<p class="BodyA"> </p>
<p class="BodyA">Steve, the floor is yours, my brother:</p>
<p class="BodyA"></p>
<p class="BodyA"> THE IMPORTANCE OF STANDPIPE TRAINING</p>
<p class="BodyA"> In today’s fire service we are always being asked to do more with less. We take more runs than ever before whether it be EMS, alarms, or personal assist. Also we are asked to do more in the aspect of community relations (Ms. Smith), school programs, building inspections, running the safe house etc. So when we finish truck checks, house chores, daily paperwork while all the time taking runs…..the next thing you know the day is gone. If by some chance your boss is squared away and makes time for training it is usually the bread and butter operations which we do often. While I personally think the bread and butter training is some of the best training we do, I also believe we need to step out of our comfort zone and challenge our self at times. Why do we not want to be out of our comfort zone? We all have our hang-ups but most of it is fear. The fear of being exposed to our peers, whether the boss has fear of not knowing the answer in front of his firefighters or the fear of asking the questions. As firefighters we need to put our fears and hang-ups aside and do the right thing. We need to have enough pride in ourselves, the job and the citizens we protect to be better than that. A mentor of mine Retired LT. Mike Polaski told me “good is not good enough in our job, we must train every day to be better than good.” That has always stuck with me. While thinking of that I ask myself a question, would I want me going to rescue my family? How does this turn into standpipe training? While this is a subject which was put on the backseat much of my career several great instructors such as Capt. Bill Gustin, BC Curt Isakson, Ret. BC Jerry Tracy, BC Dave Mcgrail, Lt. Ray McCormack just to name a few have showed us how important standpipe operations can be. So if we don’t have the information where do we go to get it? All of the above named instructors have written articles, books, done web cast, lectures and about any other form of learning you can imagine. Don’t be scared to seek out the information. A great conference in which all of the instructors I have mentioned above as well as many more is the High Rise Operations Conference in Pensacola Beach Florida. This is 3 full days of standpipe operations including hands on, check it out. You don’t know what you don’t know! I also suggest you research and learn from Standpipe Operations Gone Bad,1 Meridian Plaza in Philadelphia which taught us about PRV’s. The fire in Memphis Tennessee at 750 Adams which taught us about accountability and elevator use. Deutsche Bank Fire in New York City where standpipes were out of service. What do all of these fires have in common? They all were standpipe operations where things did not go as planned and unfortunately lives were lost. After the knowledge is gained we must do one thing, TRAIN!! While lecture is very important to lay the ground work we must get out of the house and do the work. There is no substitution for getting out and stretching in the stair well. Something I like to do on EMS runs is after patient care has been completed take the stairwell back to the rig. Take a second and take the cap off of the standpipe. Does it have PRV’s or PRD’s? If so, what type, adjustable or non adjustable, can they be removed? I assure you when there is a fire is not the time to find out a non-adjustable PRV has been placed on the wrong floor. Another tip is do walk-throughs. When doing this several things must be accomplished. Where is the control room, who has keys, where is the pump room. I also like to take a landscape wheel and measure from the standpipe on the floor below to the middle of the building. How many lengths is that going to take? This is just the tip of the iceberg we call standpipe operations, do us all a favor, get the knowledge and train so you don’t end up on the titanic.</p>
<p class="BodyA"> </p>
<p>Lt. Steve Robertson</p>
<p>Columbus Ohio Division of Fire E-18 </p>
<p class="BodyA"><a href="mailto:cfdrobertson@gmail.com"><u>cfdrobertson@gmail.com</u></a></p>
<p class="BodyA"> </p>
<div><p class="BodyA">________________________________</p>
</div>
<p class="BodyA"> </p>
<p class="BodyA">STAY FIRED UP!</p>CARNIVOROUS REACTIONtag:my.firefighternation.com,2016-05-12:889755:BlogPost:65713072016-05-12T12:47:49.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450440?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450440?profile=original" width="750"></img></a> Perhaps it's time for Smokey to get back to his carnivorous roots... natural knucklehead herd thinning in action.</p>
<p></p>
<p>STAY FIRED UP!<br></br><br></br>____</p>
<p>Click here to see more of my work or to order prints:…<span class="text_exposed_show"><br></br></span></p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450440?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450440?profile=original" width="750"/></a>Perhaps it's time for Smokey to get back to his carnivorous roots... natural knucklehead herd thinning in action.</p>
<p></p>
<p>STAY FIRED UP!<br/><br/>____</p>
<p>Click here to see more of my work or to order prints:<span class="text_exposed_show"><br/> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm" target="_blank">http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm</a></span></p>TELL IT TO DA FISHEStag:my.firefighternation.com,2016-04-11:889755:BlogPost:65673152016-04-11T12:24:02.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450415?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450415?profile=original" width="750"></img></a> ...and some days I draw cartoons that are about nothing what so ever!</p>
<p><br></br>STAY FIRED UP!<br></br> <br></br> Click link below to see more of Paul's work or to buy prints:…<br></br></p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450415?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450415?profile=original" width="750"/></a>...and some days I draw cartoons that are about nothing what so ever!</p>
<p><br/>STAY FIRED UP!<br/> <br/> Click link below to see more of Paul's work or to buy prints:<br/> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.artstudioseven.com/page-LE_Prints.htm">http://www.artstudioseven.com/page-LE_Prints.htm</a></p>HUG ME!tag:my.firefighternation.com,2016-03-10:889755:BlogPost:65650522016-03-10T14:54:21.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449889?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449889?profile=original" width="750"></img></a> As an artist who has studied human behavior for the better part of my 49 years, I can honestly say "huggable moments" are a societal issue more than a generational one. It's easy to point our fingers at the Millennials and Gen-Zs for this, but as an instructor for the past 15 years I can tell you that the Gen-Xs (my generation) are not much better. Let's face it, we as a…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449889?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449889?profile=original" width="750"/></a>As an artist who has studied human behavior for the better part of my 49 years, I can honestly say "huggable moments" are a societal issue more than a generational one. It's easy to point our fingers at the Millennials and Gen-Zs for this, but as an instructor for the past 15 years I can tell you that the Gen-Xs (my generation) are not much better. Let's face it, we as a society have been taught, and have taught, that everybody gets a trophy (notice I didn't say earned a trophy) and if you don't get your way, well it's time to pout, bitch, moan, and file grievances. No wonder we have such a messed up, politically correct, and politically insane environment - unfortunately, we did earn that!<br/><br/>Let's all put on our big boy and girl underpants today, and move on.<br/><br/>STAY FIRED UP!<br/><br/>See more of Paul’s work or buy prints here:<br/><a href="http://artstudioseven.com/page-LE_Prints.htm">http://artstudioseven.com/page-LE_Prints.htm</a><br/><br/>.<br/><br/></p>ENOUGH IS ENOUGHtag:my.firefighternation.com,2015-12-23:889755:BlogPost:65552892015-12-23T19:47:48.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450658?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450658?profile=original" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>Not sure when I will retire, but I’m all but positive this will be a phone call my wife will make!</p>
<p>STAY FIRED UP!</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>Visit my print store to see more illustrations and buy prints:…<br></br></p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450658?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974450658?profile=original" width="750"/></a></p>
<p>Not sure when I will retire, but I’m all but positive this will be a phone call my wife will make!</p>
<p>STAY FIRED UP!</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>Visit my print store to see more illustrations and buy prints:<br/> <a href="http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm" rel="nofollow">http://artstudioseven.com/page-fire-ems-prints2.htm</a></p>SUGGESTION BOXtag:my.firefighternation.com,2015-11-16:889755:BlogPost:65501122015-11-16T13:44:40.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449261?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449261?profile=original" width="750"/></a>Be careful what you ask for, because you may get it... and get it... and get it...</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449261?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449261?profile=original" width="750"/></a>Be careful what you ask for, because you may get it... and get it... and get it...</p>SO REAL!tag:my.firefighternation.com,2015-10-20:889755:BlogPost:65460722015-10-20T11:36:33.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449357?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449357?profile=original" width="750"/></a>October FireRescue Magazine cartoon. Be careful out there... because you just never know!</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449357?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449357?profile=original" width="750"/></a>October FireRescue Magazine cartoon. Be careful out there... because you just never know!</p>MOVIE MAGIC MENTALITYtag:my.firefighternation.com,2015-03-20:889755:BlogPost:65075272015-03-20T20:00:03.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p>NEW March Fire Engineering magazine cartoon: Movie Magic Mentality<br/><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A614624">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A614624</a></p>
<p>NEW March Fire Engineering magazine cartoon: Movie Magic Mentality<br/><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A614624">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A614624</a></p>NO IRISH LUCKtag:my.firefighternation.com,2015-03-17:889755:BlogPost:65072702015-03-17T12:49:08.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p>NEW Fire Engineering blog cartoon: No Irish Luck!<br/><br/><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A614108">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A614108</a><br/><br/><br/></p>
<p>NEW Fire Engineering blog cartoon: No Irish Luck!<br/><br/><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A614108">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A614108</a><br/><br/><br/></p>NEW Fire Engineering Cartoon Postedtag:my.firefighternation.com,2015-03-12:889755:BlogPost:65066202015-03-12T18:40:46.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672:BlogPost:614083">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672:BlogPost:614083</a><br/><br/></p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449872?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449872?profile=original" width="750"/></a></p>
<p><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672:BlogPost:614083">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672:BlogPost:614083</a><br/><br/></p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449872?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449872?profile=original" width="750"/></a></p>NEW Fire Engineering Cartoon Postedtag:my.firefighternation.com,2015-03-12:889755:BlogPost:65066182015-03-12T18:40:05.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672:BlogPost:614083">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672:BlogPost:614083</a><br/><br/><br/></p>
<p><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672:BlogPost:614083">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672:BlogPost:614083</a><br/><br/><br/></p>NEW Fire Engineering Cartoon Postedtag:my.firefighternation.com,2015-01-30:889755:BlogPost:65007102015-01-30T23:02:27.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A611868">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A611868</a></p>
<p><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A611868">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A611868</a></p>SHARED BLACK EYE - January Magazine Editorial Cartoontag:my.firefighternation.com,2015-01-20:889755:BlogPost:64974122015-01-20T16:57:21.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449945?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449945?profile=original" width="750"></img></a> So you think your actions don't effect us all in the public's eye? Think again!</p>
<p><br></br><br></br>Click link below to see more of Paul's work or to buy prints:<br></br> <a href="http://www.artstudioseven.com/page-LE_Prints.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.artstudioseven.com/page-LE_Prints.htm…</a><br></br> <br></br></p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449945?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1974449945?profile=original" width="750"/></a>So you think your actions don't effect us all in the public's eye? Think again!</p>
<p><br/><br/>Click link below to see more of Paul's work or to buy prints:<br/> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.artstudioseven.com/page-LE_Prints.htm">http://www.artstudioseven.com/page-LE_Prints.htm</a><br/> <br/> .</p>THE CONDUCTORtag:my.firefighternation.com,2014-11-10:889755:BlogPost:64795632014-11-10T21:59:53.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p>NEW Drawn By Fire cartoon posted!<br/><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A606134">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A606134</a></p>
<p>NEW Drawn By Fire cartoon posted!<br/><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A606134">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A606134</a></p>NEW Fire Engineering Cartoon Postedtag:my.firefighternation.com,2012-12-23:889755:BlogPost:62839082012-12-23T13:31:32.000ZPaul Combs - Fire Caroonisthttps://my.firefighternation.com/profile/PaulCombsEditorialCaroonist
<p><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A575409http://" target="_blank">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A575409http://</a></p>
<p><a href="http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A575409http://" target="_blank">http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A575409http://</a></p>