So....at the risk of over-simplifying the FIREFIGHTER SURVIVAL issue... ...here are 12 thoughts that might just work:

1-If we recruit, hire and promote the best possible people with strict and tough hiring standards and very tough and certifiable training...
2-If we operate and train to proven standards and modern firefighting practices...
3-If we wear all our PPE without excuse...head to toe with no exposed skin and no longer breathe crap...
4-If we send the correct amount of Firefighters on the 1st alarm (based on pre-plans and what's reported)..
5-If we promote Fire Officers that are highly motivated, gung-ho, educated as well as highly trained, skilled and understand that they must enforce the SOP's as supervisors...
6-If we train on and understand building construction and fire behavior...
7-If we use ICS with strict and respected command, control and accountability on the FG...
8-If we drive smart, always wear seat belts and never blow red traffic lights or stop signs w/o stopping first...
9-If we pull the right size hose lines w/the needed water and control the fire as quick as possible...
10-If we understand when it is worth risking our Firefighters lives and when it is not...(risk vs benefit)...
11-If we develop strict fire safe building codes and mandatory fire sprinkler systems...
12...and if we especially understand the issues related to firefighter health, diet, wellness and fitness........
...we can probably reduce firefighter line of duty deaths by 75% or so....if we want to and when we are ready to change our culture and related behaviors.

And although all the national programs are excellent tools-until the Fire Chiefs in the Department, the Officer in the front seat and the Firefighters riding backwards want this to change at THEIR FD, on their apparatus and on their FG,
...not much else will matter-or change.

The above was copied from FirefighterCloseCalls.com, home of the Secret List. Many of you have seen it on their home page. If this post is new to you, might I recommend that you take some time and visit firefighterclosecall.com. The information posted there jusy may open your eyes.

Botton line is one simple goal. Everyone Goes Home