tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64359765965536259142023-11-15T23:37:24.917-08:00Fire Engineering Blog Network - Chris HustonChris Huston is a Training Officer, Instructor and Firefighter. Since 2006 Chris has been running his website http://engineco22.net that hosts videos, training and his personal blog for Firefighters. Chris is very excited to be contributing to Fire Engineering and hopes you enjoy the blog. Pennwell Blogs Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15757232455847950283noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-73827103410974096662014-04-26T18:30:00.000-07:002014-04-26T18:30:05.554-07:00PPE LayersToday's structural turnout gear enables the firefighter to get up close and personal to the heat, smoke, and flames during an interior fire attack. A few of the first concepts Firefighters learn during the initial fire behavior course are the methods of heat transfer. Basic laws of thermodynamics state that heat(energy), as a process, moves by conduction, convection, and radiation. Conduction is object to object transfer of energy. Convective heat transfer is gas movement, and of course radiation is light waves. Understanding how the energy of a compartment fire moves throughout the container, along with the capabilities and limitations of structural PPE, will ensure Firefighters operating inside maintain appropriate posture and position during a fire fight.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from Du Pont.</td></tr>
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A key element in achieving a higher understanding of how to conduct business inside of a structure, during fire control evolutions, is recognizing what the gear we wear actually does for us. Several layers make up the total package for Firefighter protection. The outer most layer protects the wearer from cuts, abrasions, and the "stuff" we may run into during fire control or search. The next layer is the moisture barrier which keeps liquids such as water, oils, and others out. Thermal protection comes from, which is quite interesting, the innermost layer. Several manufacturers boast that 50% of the total thermal protection comes from this inner layer. Small percentages of the outer layers do protect the user from heat, however this inner thermal layer provides protection from thermal energy transfer. Could more thermal protection be constructed to provide more protection? From what I understand the answer is yes, but that creates more stress on the body. Current protection factors seek to create an equilibrium of protection and heat dissipation of the user. <br />
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In between these layers is air. Air is a great insulator as the atoms are spread apart and it requires a lot of energy to have them increase their speeds (the electrons bouncing around) which in turn, transfers heat. When these layers become compressed the air is reduced, and even eliminated, allowing less of a buffer between the heat energy and the Firefighter inside. You may have seen or read about this in regards to compression burns on the knees of Firefighters as they advance hose lines or search. The air is not able to reduce the heat transfer and it is then allowed to penetrate quickly and interact with moisture inside the pants, causing a compression burn. A personal experience was similar. I was operating inside a burn can and I felt something like a knife cutting the side of my face. As it turns out my hood had slightly moved from my face and a bead of sweat traveled down just in front of my ear causing a burn. It only caused a minor inconvenience, but it sparked my curiosity of how the human body, PPE, and high temperatures all relate to each other. <br />
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Simply understanding that our bunker pants and coats have these layers, as well as the importance of the air layer, will start you down the path of understanding how critical using and wearing all your PPE is. This is not only true from a thermal protection standpoint, but from a carcinogen aspect as well. They buy it, you wear it! Look for more short snippets on how Firefighter turnout gear and the Firefighter interact in the months to come. <br />
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<em>Learn more about superheated turnout gear and proper doffing by watching a great video by Frank Ricci and Justin McCarthy here</em> - <a href="http://www.fireengineering.com/topics/m/video/31234087/doffing-superheated-gear.htm">http://www.fireengineering.com/topics/m/video/31234087/doffing-superheated-gear.htm</a><br />
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Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-55100703432859933002013-11-27T06:53:00.002-08:002013-11-27T07:31:10.990-08:00Adapt, SurviveThere is a thin line between adaptation and verbatim. For years I have seen intelligent, properly trained, and devoted Firefighters take on new strategies (hard & soft environment) only to fail in the replication. The element that was lacking, adaptation. Personal experiences, too were foiled, as the plan was devised for someone else in another space. Even the smallest detail, if not adapted for the end user can cause less than expected results. Great consideration must be given to the means and methods used in our fire districts when reproducing policies, procedures, training methodology, and most significantly, emergency scene strategies and tactics. <br />
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<em>"There is grandeur in this view of life, with its several powers, having been originally breathed into a few forms or into one; and that, whilst this planet has gone cycling on according to the fixed law of gravity, from so simple a beginning endless forms most beautiful and most wonderful have been, and are being evolved."</em> The Origin of the Species- Charles Darwin<br />
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The fire service will continue on, in various forms. Most honored and respected, our profession has gone through various evolutions through adapting to the needs of those who need us, those who look to us to do the right thing and at the right time. From buckets to hoses, horses to diesel, and suppression to ems, the fire service has adapted to survive. <br />
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The mighty hunter, the lion, will hold steadfast watching, plotting, and planning for the opportune time to strike its prey. Yet, when the chance presents itself to take immediate action, the beast has the abilities and instinct to strike. When the situation dictates a quick and early attack, because of all the planning and patience through past hunts, the lion knows its enemy and can fall back if needed to progress in another fashion. The hunter knows when to attack and when to defend. Adaptation equals survival.<br />
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This notion came to mind after spending the day at UL for the attic fire test. The group observed and studied the building while the fire took hold. The information that was collected and will be analyzed is in-valuable to the fire service. These experiments are an opportunity for us to hunt the enemy before we strike. The actions taken recorded, as reactions documented, then compiled for the moment when they are needed. This is adapting to survive in action.<br />
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There is a time and place for almost everything and anything. Our variations of interventions are plentiful and time tested. What we are seeing now is exactly what happens when we act that may have not been obvious before. We are adapting to survive. Some information supports what we already knew and reinforces why we do it, while at the same time reveals insight to erase the unknown for improvement and enable adaptation.<br />
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Our training programs and hiring processes have changed and must adapt to the workforce coming through our doors. Yet once again, verbatim may set you up for failure. Flashy gadgets, quirky catch phrases without substance and that adaptation for your needs are nothing more than passing trends. Be diligent in the implementation process and do not surrender the war because of one losing battle. Identify what needs improvement for next time. You may be surprised on how simple changes are the difference between win and lose, more so with battle hardened audiences and those who are not easily impressed. Adapt for survival.<br />
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Once again I will echo the words spoken already on the subject of social media and the ability to share insight at light speed. This connects us, brings us together, sparking thought, imagination and dialog among people who would have never connected before. Keep doing that. Do so with an open mind and sponge like characteristics. Understand that adaptation must occur as you are not exactly like them. Use the ideas, substance, and theories to put a plan in motion that works for you. As Darwin said, the grandeur is the endless forms, past and present, and the wonder of what will be evolved from them. What will you evolve through your adaptation?Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-18800867864319972272013-10-07T09:26:00.001-07:002013-10-07T09:39:00.178-07:00Fire doors, do they know to keep them closed?Fire Prevention Week is the perfect time to get out and spread the message.
The great people at the NFPA do a wonderful job of making sure a theme is ready
to roll. For those departments that have a Fire Prevention Division, utilizing
the NFPA theme each year can create diversity in your programs from one year to
the next. For those of us that must combine prevention and suppression
activities, this can be a daunting task. <o:p></o:p><br />
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National Fire Prevention Week gives us an "in" we may not have the
rest of the year. The private and public sector may have internal
communications, drills and other events concerning fire prevention that they
have asked us to attend. Many times this is our one shot to share the message
so we must make it count. Personally, as much as I would love to talk fire
prevention every day, we simply cannot spend the time. While we have their
attention, reinforce topics that help us if we do respond to a fire emergency.
One of those key topics is <strong>Door Control!</strong><o:p></o:p><br />
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We have been reminded here as of late about the importance of controlling
the door to limit the amount of available air to the fire. John Shafer has
really reinforced this message not only to the fire service, but the public as
well. "We cannot control how much fuel is in a compartment and we cannot
always control the heat. We can limit fire growth through controlling/closing
doors" as he recently told me. People will always have "stuff"
and we cannot always immediately get to the source of heat with our fire streams,
but when we reduce the amount of air that the fire needs to grow by utilizing
closed doors, we buy time for occupant rescue and fire control. <o:p></o:p><br />
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Door control is not just for the front door of the single family home.
Office complexes and commercial buildings are just as, if not more critical! In
fact, they are so important that NFPA has several standards in regards to the
types of doors and their required positions based on occupancy.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E8PEylrZDIA/UlLfX5uPVsI/AAAAAAAAATg/UlVinRjja1M/s1600/IMAG0929-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E8PEylrZDIA/UlLfX5uPVsI/AAAAAAAAATg/UlVinRjja1M/s400/IMAG0929-1.jpg" width="400" /></a>In many buildings that house a significant population, a successful means of
fire control is compartmentalization. Fire doors are a key feature. NFPA 80
<em>Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives </em>outlines much of
the requirements for the construction of these fire protection components. One
critical aspect is the ability of these doors to close on their own. This can
be self-closing, automatic and powered. This in turn means they cannot be
obstructed or blocked in anyway. If the door is unable to fully close, it will
not be able to perform its intended function, the stopping heat and smoke from spreading. Other NFPA standards to review include 1, 101 and 5000, when it comes to
the requirements of fire doors.<o:p></o:p></div>
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One common configuration you may encounter and should speak on, is the
corridor. Fire doors that break up long hallways into sections must be able to
close and provide its intended purpose. These also include doors that lead to
stairwells that access upper/lower levels. (As Fire Service Professionals we can
certainly urge the building owners to ensure annual fire door inspections are
performed, however this can be outside the realm of Fire Prevention activities.
These points fit in better with Fire Inspection/Survey tasks.) Educate those who occupy the space to always ensure these doors can
open properly and close without assistance. They must be able to latch, which in
turn keeps them closed. Ensure they understand these doors should not be
blocked open unless they are constantly attended while doing any work in the
area. <br />
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Office or room doors, although they may not be true fire doors, can still be utilized to reduce fire growth. Let them know that it is good practice to close these doors when they go home or when they are out of the office. <br />
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Be creative in your methods of conveying this important fire education message. Coach occupants to ensure doors close if you asist with fire drills. Even briefly speaking with building managers can help shape a healthy practice of closing doors and spotting those they are not working. Closed fire doors not only help stop the spread of fire but also ensure any other passive and active fire protection equipment performs as intended.<br />
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A life can be saved through the simple act of a closed door.<br />
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Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-84837591768755214162013-09-07T06:38:00.002-07:002013-09-07T06:39:45.388-07:00See, Hear, Watch, Do!<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">"My frustration started
early in the session, the students just didn't seem to catch on. We went over
it many times in the classroom but when it came to the practical application,
they fumbled all over the place."</i> Whether you have said those words to
another or thought them to yourself, you felt disappointed in your abilities to
teach a particular skill or task. The best presentation coupled with the best
delivery may not touch all students when discussing the practical application.
Firefighters are performers, doers, we are very hands on. A lecture, although
still needed, is a small piece of the puzzle when it comes to the execution of
skill drills. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Before teaching in an official capacity, you must attend a
course designed to certify and qualify you to instruct new and veteran
Firefighters alike. Whether it is a weekend crash course or a full semester's
worth of receiving information on the organization, dissemination and record
retention methods, of a fire department training program, should all contain
knowledge for a success path. The topic of learning styles should come up and
lays a foundation for instructional techniques. Without going into great detail
and speaking generally, people learn by: Reading, Watching and Doing. Our
training sessions should cover all three. When you encompass all three of the
major learning styles, the outcome will yield better results. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>SEE-HEAR-WATCH-DO!</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Often the new Firefighter sits through a class before
putting their hands on the tools and equipment they will be expected to use.
For many recruits this is there first exposure to the Fire Service. The tools,
the gear, the equipment and more so the "firefighter jargon" can all
be overwhelming when the student is only seeing the words from a textbook. Some
departments may have some sort of orientation that the new member can sit
through to see some of this for the first time as well. Seeing is certainly
better, but can it be too much all at once? What about the 20 year veteran
seeing a new piece of equipment or a tactical method for the first time? Sure
the bulk of the lesson can be understood but what about the finer details?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Getting it to stick! From my personal experience from both
in front of the room and the view from the seat, I as well as see students
"get it" when the task is seen first in real time, talked about,
watched as it is broken down step by step, then performed by the student. For a
better picture, these should be broken down and discussed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">See - The students should see the task at full speed, giving
them a visual of what the desired tempo, steps and final execution looks like.
Giving a demonstration allows all the students senses to be engaged. The sight
and sound can impact their grasp of the skill more than reading about it in a
book. The preferred method is performing the task on the drill ground or the
apparatus floor. Hearing the bells, the clangs and the performer’s actions
pulls them into the environment. Taping the execution to show in the classroom
is a great alternative method and fits easily into your training session. This
also allows members to reference time and time again. The student now
understands what the expectations are.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hear - It should not matter if the session is all lecture,
all hands on or a combination of both, you must explain the act step by step
and allow for questions. Brief everyone on the desired outcome, outline the
tools, steps and procedures for accomplishing the task. Base these on the level
of knowledge that the group has. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Watch - The third part is to demonstrate the task again at a
reduced speed. You want to point out the finer mechanics and details that may
not have been obvious during the real time demonstration. If the session
started in the classroom and shifted to the training grounds this step in the
process is more critical. How long ago did they see the task performed real
time? Break it down step by step. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">DO - Last but most important is the student performing the
actions. The skill level of the member should be taken into consideration,
however with new skills the Crawl, Walk, Run method should be implored. One
example that I use when teaching the donning and doffing of SCBA is. First
evolution the student only wears bunker pants, then coat is added and finally
perform entire donning process while wearing structural gloves. Not only does
this provide a progressive means but also forces repetition. Develop good
muscle memory by allowing students to create their own groove, not by expecting
them to perform it all out when they just were taught the skill.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Once the student has the basic procedure down, then slowly
progress the evolution to what would be expected on the fire ground. This may
include being dressed down at the first level, not masked up on the second, not
breathing air on the third and full speed 100% PPE on the final evolution. Some
evolutions may be performed as a team and slowly progressed to a single
member’s performance. This also provides a much needed opportunity for the
student to ask questions and see immediate feedback on performance based skill
sets.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Lastly during the DO step, do not expect to see perfection
from your trainees. This step in the process is just as much about you seeing
if they understand as them learning how to do. Keep vigilant eyes on each
evolution ensuring the task is being performed, as directed. Step in to correct
and coach as needed. Many bad habits are created during training; do not let
them walk with bad habits! Show them good habits by explaining how this same
training evolution can be performed back at the firehouse with just the
company.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Understanding that all students, new recruits and veterans
alike, will learn in many different ways and at different speeds. Use all the
tools you have available, so you will provide members with the Knowledge,
Skills, Abilities and Attitudes for growth in the Fire Service.<o:p></o:p></span>Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-22047940551305384652013-08-17T10:34:00.001-07:002013-08-17T10:34:50.987-07:00Training out of trash"One man's trash is another man's treasure." We can absolutely apply this to our training program. With many counting on the use of technology to serve us our training these days, almost zero cost goes into building props and training aides out of trash.<br />
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Computers, tablets, smart phones and whatever the next hot device will be, certainly play a vital role in our organizations training regimen. We want those tools available to all of our personnel, so we can stay on top of changes and more importantly deliver training clearly, often and right into the hands of those who need it. What we cannot get out of those circuit boards wrapped in plastic, the skills and mentoring that comes with hands on training. <br />
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Many departments have state of the art training facilities that include computer labs and training grounds. But what about those who do not? What about those crews housed in stations many miles away that cannot make the trip while on duty for a short company session? We need options, we need training props that our members can get something out of while not needing a purchase order. Become a "dumpster diver!"<br />
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Do not take dumpster diver literal. Utilize local resources such as utilities, contractors and even your own backyard projects. The following is a "grocery list" of items to be on the look out for in which you can build your own props.<br />
<ul>
<li>Large pipes (culvert, drainage, sewer)</li>
<li>Wooden pallets</li>
<li>Doors</li>
<li>Windows</li>
<li>Door parts (knobs, lock cylinders, mortises, etc.)</li>
<li>Truck tires</li>
<li>Electrical wire, phone cords, cable, network cables</li>
<li>Out of service items such as</li>
<ul>
<li>hose</li>
<li>rope</li>
<li>SCBA</li>
<li>hand tools</li>
</ul>
</ul>
All of these items can be used to either build a type of prop or be used so in service equipment can stay in service. Examples of props I have built with the above list include:<br />
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Confined Space prop from culvert pipes for doing horizontal drags. You can also use this for an SCBA confidence prop. Drill holes into it then using dowel rods create change of profile distractors. Run rope and/or wire through for entanglement hazards.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wwybpyuiFY0/Ug-yDM0skcI/AAAAAAAAASc/I3RD81CKAJY/s1600/palletwall.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wwybpyuiFY0/Ug-yDM0skcI/AAAAAAAAASc/I3RD81CKAJY/s320/palletwall.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Wooden pallets can make great temporary walls for search and rescue obstacles/detours.The members may know the room they are in, but with a few of these in place, the layout can easily be changed. Take out 2-3 pieces of the deck board to create an opening for change of profile entry way.<br />
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<ul>Truck tires can be attached to rope that can be pulled to mimic a charged line. They also can be part of a SCBA/Search course. They also work great for a "chopping station" during physical fitness.</ul>
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Have doors and windows around for forcible entry. Keep door parts that can either be through the lock props or table drop drills to show their inner workings.<br />
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Don't throw out that old hose! Use it in an apparatus floor maze. Practice "Smooth, bump, bump to the pump!"<br />
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Out of service hand tools and SCBA can be used in the scenarios. On old SCBA can be thrown into a duffel bag to mimic your On Deck or R.I.T. bag. You can also create a scavenger hunt with old tools and appliances. Scatter them in a blacked out room and have members try to find them all. To make it more difficult put in the tools and equipment to make a certain type of connection like a standpipe or hose line that they must complete.<br />
<br />
Get creative! Some of the above examples many of you have seen before. This post is simply reminding everyone of the items you probably have in your firehouse right now that could be used for training. Adding some recycled materials can increase the options that you have without making the trek to the training grounds or needing an all hands training session.<br />
<br />
Not everything has to be used. Last year we contacted a local hardware store about "scratch and dent" items. We were able to finish our roof ventilation prop with shingles very cheap. They sold us damaged packages and mismatched bundles at a fraction of the price. This gave our prop a realistic feel and all it took was a morning of pounding nails. See what local resources are willing to sell you at a discount or even donate.<br />
<br />
Do not let budget and space constraints weigh you down. Even if you only get one valuable training session out of your recycled prop, it was well worth it!Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-72657081338756991442013-07-25T15:57:00.002-07:002013-07-25T16:14:09.257-07:00The choices we make."Today I want to do a poor job and get someone hurt."<o:p></o:p><br />
<o:p></o:p><br />
Have you or someone of your crew ever woke up and thought that? Most likely
not. No one wants to do a bad job. No one purposely injures themselves or
others while on the fire ground, training ground or in quarters. From time to
time good people make bad choices, poor decisions and make mistakes. Multiple
factors influence when and why errors are made. The severity and effect of
those sub-par judgments are situation based. A narrow window of decision making
time, pressure from others or a lack of information, can all lead to an event. Our
line of work presents itself with minimal time to act, minimal information
and extreme pressure under volatile circumstances. Therefore, we must provide
responders with the prowess to be deliberate in their actions. At the very
least, minimize the severity of any negative results.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Since I began my career in the Fire Service, I have seen various methods to
perform any one of the tasks we are assigned. From the crew you work with all
the way to the country you work in, everyone seems to have “their way” to get
it done. This notion can add to uncertainty on the fire ground. We should all
have our “best practices” and be on the same page while operating. Take out the
guesswork, take out the doubt and prevent any hesitation. The solution for many
of these uncertainties is training and preparation. Have a department standard
for actions that will be taken on incident scenes. Of course there will be
times when the standard cannot be performed. Typically these are not the
situations that get us hurt. The routine task get us in trouble, as complacency
sets in. The routine task gets us hurt when we do not work as a team, while all
knowing our individual roles, responsibilities and what is expected of each of
us. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
In 2011 over 30,000 fire ground related injuries were <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">reported</b>, with over 70,000 total. Reported is in bold as I believe
many are not reported and the statistic may be much higher. Strains and sprains
have traditionally topped the list. Many times due to overreaching, not having
proper footing and a lack of teamwork/communication while performing the task.
A drastic reduction could be seen in these statistics by having a better
understanding of expectations. The emergency scene is a dynamic environment,
even without the problem we came to fix. One way to disseminate what is
expected, outline crew and department expectations for the tour promptly first
thing in the shift. For those that do not stay in quarters, use assignment cards on the apparatus.
Also, use email or text messages to put out critical information. Several free
programs exist to help communicate department and operational information to
the troops. Minimize surprises so everyone can focus on the task at hand and
have the frame of mind to make good choices. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Company Officers, Senior Firefighters and other leaders need to be
consciousness of performing with a “do as I do” attitude, which reflects the
organizations procedures policies and guidelines’. Both good and bad habits can
be picked up, especially by young and new personnel. Make sure to perform in
the same manner each and every time. Deviating or skipping a step just once can
give others the mindset that it is okay for them to skip steps as well.
Critical steps could be missed, leading to injury or worse. Just recently a
firefighter lost his life due to the lack of a spotter while backing up
apparatus. Department policy is to always have a spotter when backing. Was this
a single deviation or common occurrence? We can quickly develop the “it won’t
happen to me” attitude when we disregard processes even just once. When you get
away with it once, you will do it again.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YywqeoazDSZBLgYIHaKJJLs1WY1Ivt_iHCc71znUmmcYdq6rMK9QT_CveNs6gmjpKQp93UrkO2PFehChyYVqpeOk4ekjbu-kGBb07fwPFtGlBsXxBzWFulQNpU9IRAhkBmwS57Du7HHr/s1600/fog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YywqeoazDSZBLgYIHaKJJLs1WY1Ivt_iHCc71znUmmcYdq6rMK9QT_CveNs6gmjpKQp93UrkO2PFehChyYVqpeOk4ekjbu-kGBb07fwPFtGlBsXxBzWFulQNpU9IRAhkBmwS57Du7HHr/s320/fog.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<o:p></o:p> </div>
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<strong>“Perfect practice, makes perfect. Then practice some more!”<o:p></o:p></strong></div>
<br />
Repetition is the key to mastery of a skill. From the first
day at the academy we are honing our skill set. However a gap can be created
when we do not practice how we will perform at the emergency and with the
people we will be working with. This is another reason to standardize our basic
actions. When we can perform a given task with little to no doubt of successful
completion, we free up our minds to focus on the decision making aspect. If
more concentration is focused on the physical act of throwing the ladder, are
we able to place it in the best place? Are we looking for any hazards around
us? Are we maintaining good situational awareness? Teamwork, looking out for
others as well as ourselves and knowing your role can all help to make better
decisions.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
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We all know our job is to show up when called and help solve
the problem. Our intentions are never to add to the problem by involving a
responder. Having a solid foundation of base skills, understanding your role
within the team and making solid decisions can drastically reduce fire ground
injury.<o:p></o:p></div>
Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-84805270737707275772013-01-29T17:39:00.003-08:002013-01-30T05:41:09.408-08:00Moment in Time"A picture is worth a thousand words." Words coined by someone long ago,
noting that a single image can convey a complex idea. From the stories told by
a Neanderthal through his simple etchings to our modern day capture of life, man
has told his story through image. A moment in time or emotion of man has
inspired, enraged, saddened and brought courage to those who see past the mere
ink on paper (or pixels on screen).<br />
<br />
What does any of this have to do with the fire service? Everything. Where
ever you are your attention can be instantly transferred to another place or
another time. A fire burns in Chicago as you watch in Dixon Wyoming. But your
reality of the situation is skewed. Your mind can concentrate on the image not
the sounds, the feel of the wind, the chaos of the fire ground and your elevated
pulse rate fueled by adrenaline. Your attention placed on watching as others
act, perform and make critical decisions. They senses flooded, their bodies
exhausted and emotions driving them. "Fight or Flight" is on the brink, which
will they decide as you analyze and compare this image to what you would do in
their situation. Time is on your side. Minutes, hours and days exist for you to
react, then change your decision upon any new information you find. Those in the
image, make a choice in a seconds time and must execute it right.<br />
<br />
<div class="mceTemp mceIEcenter" draggable="">
<dl _mce_style="width: 392px;" class="wp-caption aligncenter" id="attachment_679" style="width: 392px;">
<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a _mce_href="http://engineco22.net/2011blog/wordpress-content/uploads/2013/01/ladderfall.png" href="http://engineco22.net/2011blog/wordpress-content/uploads/2013/01/ladderfall.png"><img _mce_src="http://engineco22.net/2011blog/wordpress-content/uploads/2013/01/ladderfall.png" alt="" class="size-full wp-image-679" height="252" src="http://engineco22.net/2011blog/wordpress-content/uploads/2013/01/ladderfall.png" title="ladderfall" width="382" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd">Use as LESSONS LEARNED, not to finger
point.</dd></dl>
</div>
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<br />
<br />
There are positives to the influx of media we have available to us. We are
not seeing the fire ground as those before us. We must use image and video to
see how fire lives, breathes and moves. Imagine yourself on that scene making a
split second decision then acting in a manner as if it was happening
now. Resisting the urge to cast stones without knowing all sides is difficult
to do. As I recently fell prey to this very notion. Do not focus on what "they"
do, focus on your response, your actions. Take these situations and build your
personal slide show so when you are "that guy" you will have the advantage.<br />
<br />
An image is worth a thousand words, those words can also be lies. Do we have
the facts, do we know the situation? A photo can stir emotion and action. A
video can be misguided as it is from a certain point of view. Consider the
following when reacting to an image or video.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Do not confuse peer pressure as conviction.</li>
<li>Do not mistake genius for lack of talent.</li>
<li>An image can be used to capture the moment or tell a lie.</li>
<li>Our senses react to time and space. Behind a keyboard is in a different
space then the operation.</li>
<li>Absorb the intent of the captured image, why was this taken and what purpose
does it serve.</li>
<li>Consider your reaction before reacting. What compels you to act?</li>
</ul>
<br />
Our time is unique, continue to capture our world. Be an artist, find emotion
and the human spirit in life's canvas. As a Fire Service Professional document
what we do and why. Use our collection of imagery to empower our people to be at
our best. Perhaps the next image you see will tell the story of a Firefighter
and their courage, bravery, honor, pride and conviction to help fellow man.
Decide to advocate for positive change, if the opposite is seized.<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7T1UX61Zwkg/UQh5jJ3N-UI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/1CIUA-LBNiI/s1600/SmokeIsShowing.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7T1UX61Zwkg/UQh5jJ3N-UI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/1CIUA-LBNiI/s320/SmokeIsShowing.png" width="227" /></a></div>
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Photo Courtesy of</div>
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© 2013 <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SmokeIsShowing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>SmokeIsShowing</a></div>
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Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-80805439256949124142012-11-22T00:12:00.001-08:002012-11-22T07:17:50.704-08:00Stay SafeIt is a simple phrase, one to quickly say and it means so many things. Lately it seems to carry negative connotations, some even feel it is offensive. At times the Fire Service is a gigantic teeter-toter, the views and beliefs of one group on their side with the opposite on the other. Right now we are seeing a Safety Culture vs. Aggressive Culture. My own opinion; they are really one in the same, but that is a topic for another day. So to say "Stay Safe" to a fellow Firefighter could be met with a smile and a "you too" or the stink eye.<br />
<br />
Stay safe, two words that mean so much. When I am telling others to stay safe it is intended to include, <br />
<br />
<strong>STAY</strong><br />
<ul>
<li><strong>Focused, smart, fit, ready, attentive, passionate, vigilant, on the look out, prepared and look out for yourself and others. Along with plenty of others that could come to mind.</strong></li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
</ul>
No negatives there, no words that would go against our mission. Nothing that states if smoke is showing "don't dare you take the fight to the fire." Being and acting safe is to be in a state of readiness for all that could come your way. Expect the unexpected. Do not take what you see at face value. Look at the situation more critically and if all else fails, ask questions before blindly running into a situation that you cannot win.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WmlzxW44Ls8/UK3dW6Tk0iI/AAAAAAAAAI4/XDMZtmuQyB0/s1600/CautionTape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WmlzxW44Ls8/UK3dW6Tk0iI/AAAAAAAAAI4/XDMZtmuQyB0/s200/CautionTape.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KlRd7tdOzzA/UK3dSFkEq4I/AAAAAAAAAIw/bfF6Wal0WXA/s1600/danger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KlRd7tdOzzA/UK3dSFkEq4I/AAAAAAAAAIw/bfF6Wal0WXA/s200/danger.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br />
This phrase is a simple reminder that I want you to go out and do your best. Do what is honorable and noble so we do not tarnish this great profession. But when you do have to take that chance, that matter of life and death, use all the tools you have been given in your career. Make the best choices and decisions you can so you go home the same way you came in, in one piece.<br />
<br />
I want all of you to STAY SAFE and I want EVERYONE TO GO HOME.<br />
<br />Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-2803680418514314132012-11-07T20:31:00.000-08:002012-11-07T20:33:40.501-08:00Polishing the wheelHave you ever been in the middle of a conversation and suddenly have an "a-ha" moment? The way our minds operate is extremely interesting. While you are intently listening to the other persons words, your brain is constructing thoughts at the same time. On shift the Engineer and I were discussing some changes to the way the fire service operates. The conversation turned to the concepts behind Redefining the Engine Company. The verb "polish" was used. Part of RTEC is being proficient at our basic skills to be the most effective we can. Essentially we need to be "highly polished." Whether it is pump operations, grabbing the plug or stretching the line, we get one chance to get it right or "to shine."<br />
<br />
Anyone that has been around a few years has experienced a standard operating procedure change. When this was rolled out did some utter "reinventing the wheel" or something to that connotation? Maybe a new tool was purchased or a task became more involved. Evolution has a funny way of taking our processes and altering them simply for change. Please do not take this sentiment in the wrong direction, I fully advocate change for viable reasons. "Change, inevitable, constant." We must be at least open to change,even more so in our line of work,<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qjAx3Z62i7o/UJs0bjVHCgI/AAAAAAAAAIM/vFwq7H2yw3o/s1600/IMAG0059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qjAx3Z62i7o/UJs0bjVHCgI/AAAAAAAAAIM/vFwq7H2yw3o/s320/IMAG0059.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Use a little elbow grease and polish instead of reinventing the wheel.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The wheel, since it's creation thousands of years B.C. has been refined, updated and used for more than what originally intended for. Over the years the fire service wheel has gone through the same type of progression. Many of these updates have improved our level of service, ability to complete our mission and commitment to bring home our troops after every tour. When sitting at the drawing board ask yourself this "will this change reinvent the wheel to enhance our goals or will polishing our existing wheel do the trick." Odds are your wheel is in good shape, just needs a good polish.<br />
<br />
Company Officers can help this process by laying out crew/shift expectations at the start of tour. A simple reminder of what they would like to accomplish in the initial stages of an incident can be a tremendous help. This is even more evident when your department has "floaters." Working with a different crew, at a different house or rig can sometimes cause confusion. Laying it out ahead of time puts some polish on right away.<br />
<br />
Getting out on the drill ground works out bent spokes on the wheel. The exact opposite might even be the cure. During training evolutions we shine, but on the streets something is lacking. Perhaps drilling needs to occur on the streets to see if it will actually work. If that is not an option, what about adding street-like obstructions to your drill grounds? A few parked cars, trash cans or landscaping adds the realism while enhancing the training experience.<br />
<br />
The last two paragraphs were simply a few suggestions on ways to help get that mirror like finish back on your wheel. Everyday we grow and change, for the better, we hope. Instead of reinventing the way we conduct business, start by identifying if it's polishing that's needed. Underneath that coat of mud is a great looking wheel, it just needed to be polished.<br />
<br />Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-12456906466189292662012-10-17T15:44:00.000-07:002012-10-17T17:50:17.216-07:00The value of fiction.For decades the only methods to capture fireground operations were through the stories told by those who experienced it and the still photo. Many historical fires are frozen in time by the few photos taken as the events took place. Even today we document these fires by the split second decision of the photographer. We do find ourselves in a difficult position as technology has given not only us, but the public, the ability to document every second and every action taken on our modern fireground.<br />
<br />
Many have brought to light the issues and risk of social media in today's fire service. This post is not about that. What I hope to convey is the importance of educating our membership, how to properly use media such as video, audio and the still photo to increase knowledge.<br />
<br />
Face it, as we experience fewer fires and lose years upon years of street knowledge the next generation, myself included, will have less information to poll from on the emergency scene. Spending ample time on the training ground is one way to gain efficacy and knowledge on task based skills. But what about the decision making process? This week I was fortunate enough to listen to Dr. Gary Klein speak.<br />
<br />
Dr. Klein is the expert behind Recognition Primed Decision Making (RPDM). What is so interesting about his work is that he isn't teaching the fire service these skills, it is just the opposite. He spent years with the fire service to find out how we make tough decision, under stress and in a split second. We have what he calls a "Slide Tray." The ability to act quickly is gained from our years of experience that is recalled, compared, then acted upon. This should give you just enough to understand this process and why it is more critical then ever. Visit his website <a href="http://www.macrocognition.com/">http://www.macrocognition.com/</a> for more info.<br />
<br />
Our "instincts" that flow from RPDM comes from our collection of experience. With fewer fires we are adding fewer events to this set. To overcome a portion of these missed opportunities we can turn to technology. How many remember when the overhead projector was overtaken by the electronic presentation? So much more content was able to be covered in the classroom setting with ease. We soon took advantage of the new found ability to add video. Not only could these videos add value to our classroom but they helped to keep students engaged. In 2012 it is nothing to perform a quick Internet search to show a video that proves your point. <br />
<br />
The negative side of the new love affair with instant video, are the students focused on the actions of the those shown or the intent of your lesson? We have all seen it or heard it. Pull up a video and the incident commanders from behind the glowing screen let loose. Some times comments are positive others negative. It is very easy to fall into the trap of watching the task performers rather than the fire behavior or the what the smoke is telling us. Granted from time to time we will use the videos to exercise a point about the actions taken. Use caution when having students view our modern means of documentation.<br />
<br />
What we can do, create simulations. There are several applications on the market that allow the user to take a snapshot and create a scenario without the actions of responders to "muddy the waters." These fictional events allow the viewers to watch the fire growth, behavior, smoke and reading the building. Once they have their own opinion, free of bias they then can elaborate on what actions they would take and why. These situations allow for so much more control than having free time simply watching "fire porn." Use them as company drills where the experience of the Officer or Senior Firefighter can be shared with those without the soot on their face.<br />
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Another great way to gain valuable insight is to go out into your district, perform a simple pre-plan then take a snapshot of that occupancy. Using certain simulation products you can on the spot, add smoke, fire and explosions to discuss while on site. Talk about where the hydrants are and in that situation what would be some best practices. What this also gains for your crew is everyone is seeing the same picture rather than five ideas of what could be. It goes back to what "heavy smoke" is. Your idea of heavy is not the same as mine.</div>
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With training budgets shrinking, the amount of fires we run and the loss of valuable knowledge we must find alternatives to ensure learning is taking place. Find a product or method that works for you but consider the ramifications it may have on impressionable minds. Hours of "fire porn" will never equate to the real hands on education of the fireground. Give your people the most ammunition possible through simulations.</div>
Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-2721277977053501902012-09-29T19:05:00.000-07:002012-09-29T19:07:03.849-07:00Long Driveway Solutions - Tools<div>
Our first discussion about Long Driveway Solutions was a basic overview of the program. Gaining permission from the property owner, for sign placement, is a critical step in the program. Without this we can still establish a water supply, however our efficiency greatly decreases. A tool that is starting to be more common on apparatus is the Global Positioning Sensor. With a few taps on the screen your GPS can aid your long supply line evolution when LDW signage doesn't exist.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3zUXUZ4xHU8/UGeD-fdd7II/AAAAAAAAAGY/Us0pcJR9NGc/s1600/IMAG0071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" kea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3zUXUZ4xHU8/UGeD-fdd7II/AAAAAAAAAGY/Us0pcJR9NGc/s200/IMAG0071.jpg" width="112" /></a>Technology has made it's way into the Fire Service just as it has in every other industry. Computer Aided Dispatch has increased our ability to arrive at the right location, in a timely manner and without taking up radio wave space asking for "crosses". Many departments have laptop computers in their apparatus to allow the "Right Seat" to see a map of the crews destination. This not only serves our customers but provides the extra layer of safety by allowing the driver to concentrate on driving. For those who cannot afford this type of system, a GPS unit is a great option. The GPS uses satellites to pinpoint your location anywhere that a line of sight is present. Dense trees or being in-doors decreases the signal and your location may not display.</div>
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How can the GPS help us during an operation that includes a Long Driveway? Many GPS units have "trip data". Depending on your device this can be brought up by simply tapping an option or two. This screen has various types of data including a trip distance box. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T9-oUIHAj94/UGeEDtBcKhI/AAAAAAAAAGw/za68nExVOCo/s1600/IMAG0074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" kea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T9-oUIHAj94/UGeEDtBcKhI/AAAAAAAAAGw/za68nExVOCo/s200/IMAG0074.jpg" width="200" /></a>When you arrive to the entrance of a suspected long driveway that is not participating in your Long Driveway program, have the Driver stop in the driveway for a brief moment. Enter this trip data screen and reset the counter. Now you may proceed to your destination. Make note of every 1/10 of a mile. One-tenth = just over 500 feet. The engines in my area carry 1000ft of LDH and should be able to make a 2/10 mile lay. One point that should be made here, when performing this long lay blind, the first due engine may not drop line at all. Information regarding the driveways length is obtained and your second, third and fourth due will be setting up water supply.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0_nDyBUVyjc/UGeECKx0z0I/AAAAAAAAAGo/FULlROzV4TQ/s1600/IMAG0073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" kea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0_nDyBUVyjc/UGeECKx0z0I/AAAAAAAAAGo/FULlROzV4TQ/s200/IMAG0073.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Another option, depending on your response type, is the use of markers. While calculating your length on the way to the hazard area, drop cones or other visible objects at certain benchmarks. This could be every 500 or 1000 feet. As the next in engines arrive these markers will act just like the signage used in the program. 900 feet is the set point for our signage, however the calculation for 500/1000 is much simpler to perform under pressure.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-49o2RbA7aPo/UGeEAUEeFYI/AAAAAAAAAGg/KsnL77Q4qf4/s1600/IMAG0061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" kea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-49o2RbA7aPo/UGeEAUEeFYI/AAAAAAAAAGg/KsnL77Q4qf4/s200/IMAG0061.jpg" width="200" /></a>Since the first days of the fire service our mission has been to solve problems. Having a Long Driveway Program is a great way to ensure quality service is given to all residents. Whether their construction design or location of property gives us issues, it is our duty to overcome them. Many of our customers that chose a setback that is not conducive to our operation, do so not to make our job harder but to have privacy. They also may desire not to have signage along their property. Using the trip counter on a GPS unit allows us to gain critical information about these Long Driveway Problems and turn them into Long Driveway Solutions.</div>
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(Make sure to review the operating manual for your GPS unit before use. Never operate the GPS while driving.)</div>
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Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-81992775513937989262012-09-16T07:46:00.000-07:002012-09-16T07:59:51.703-07:00Introduction to the Long Driveway Water Supply Solution<br />
Setbacks in the Suburban-Rural interface can measure 50 feet
to 1 mile. Often when these setbacks extend off the road at these distances,
your hose bed will not make it. Access can be a single lane driveway, making it
difficult to bring in multiple engines. Regardless if the area is supplied by a
municipal water system or water supply delivered by Fire Department
tanker/tenders, the forward engine will have to drop large diameter supply
line.<br />
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To understand a solution to these long supply problems one
must look at the problem. For example, a two story single family home is set
back 1100 feet from the road and access is via an 8-foot wide single vehicle
driveway, which includes several curves. The forward engine has only 1000 feet
of 5-inch diameter supply line. A hydrant is placed 200 feet south of the
driveway entrance. Water source to forward engine is 1300 feet! Other factors
can affect the supply, but that is a different topic. What is the solution?
Relay Pumping, right? However, not just relay pumping- long driveway water
supply pumping.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eFrGZl-DOeY/UFXlwEopNnI/AAAAAAAAAGA/20siB1pSTpg/s1600/FDSHL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eFrGZl-DOeY/UFXlwEopNnI/AAAAAAAAAGA/20siB1pSTpg/s200/FDSHL.jpg" width="131" /></a>Long driveway water supply solutions start with identifying
your areas needs. A list is created and owner’s permission to calculate
distances is acquired. If the setback from access to possible forward engine
placement is greater than your first arriving engines supply line then a LDWSS
(long driveway water supply solution) is required. The next step is explaining
to the homeowner the circumstances. Do not indicate that there is a problem but
that you have a plan to improve your abilities in the event they ever require
your services. You also want to take the opportunity to explain to them that
signage will need to be placed along the driveway. These small street signs are
about 6”x8” and are mounted on a green fence post. The main portion of the sign
states "FD Special Hose Lay" or “FD Long Driveway” and underneath a number. This number indicates which
engine and to stop at the sign. For every 900 feet a sign in needed.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-apc73mkmRNY/UFXlkzCszVI/AAAAAAAAAF4/fcs436_d898/s1600/sign1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-apc73mkmRNY/UFXlkzCszVI/AAAAAAAAAF4/fcs436_d898/s320/sign1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Why 900 feet? Most engines can carry 1000 feet of LDH, which
gives you an error margin of 100 feet (hook ups, bends, to far forward or
back). </div>
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Executing the LDWSS, once in place, is a very simple relay
operation. The initial engine drops their LDH at the sign that states “1” then
goes to the best position at the hazard area. The next in engine will spot on
the sign that states “2”, drop their 5 inch, proceed foward to connect the LDH from the Forward engine for supply.
This continues until a water supply is fully established. A third
engine at the street drafting from a porta-tank and pushing to the middle
engine or hooked up to a hydrant as a Key Engine supplying engine 2.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NiIWs8Hf73Q/UFXmAiLZNkI/AAAAAAAAAGI/XWeABDZEKuc/s1600/longdrivechart.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NiIWs8Hf73Q/UFXmAiLZNkI/AAAAAAAAAGI/XWeABDZEKuc/s200/longdrivechart.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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Long driveways do not have to be problems but solutions to
water supply woes. Some vital ingredients are enough large diameter supply
line, engines to help the relay and establishing a water source. Get your local
mutual aid companies involved to ensure resources are available and understand
your LDWSS protocol. At 3 am, it does not matter if Mrs. Smith’s house is 22
feet from the street, where a 150 pre-connect will work all night or her house
is 1.3 miles in the woods. Fire control occurs when we apply our agent after
ensuring it is available. Our main agent is water and we must have water supply
solutions. One more example of Redefining the Engine Company.</div>
Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-41813943488410280392012-09-10T10:38:00.000-07:002012-09-10T11:17:08.969-07:00Redefining the Engine Company - The Concept<br />
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Organizations of all types see changes to the way they must operate. Economical climates, market trends and even the lack of service needs, dictate organizational structure, operating budgets and production. The Fire Service is not immune to these symptoms nor should they be overlooked. From the largest of Metro/Urban departments to the smallest of rural volunteer, organizational leaders must devise strategies and tactics to ensure the level of service we provide, is never compromised. Enter the new definition of the Engine Company.<br />
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The epiphany, for me at least, came a year ago. Preparing to teach at the academy I was reading through a well-known basic Firefighter text-book. Towards the beginning of the book the authors breakdown the different types of companies and their functions. Thinking to myself, "it would be nice to operate like this." Just to clarify I work for three very different organizations and I am very thankful for being able to see all sides. My experience has been riding as the "all-purpose" engine. Suppression, ladders, rescue, extrication, water supply...if it happens on the fire ground, the engine company performs it. So where is this department that the text-book talks about with all their companies? They should re-define the term, engine company, to reflect how the modern engine company really operates. To read more about the basics of Redefining the Engine Company, <a href="http://www.fireengineering.com/articles/2012/06/redefining-the-engine-company.html" target="_blank">click this link.</a><br />
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So what is this concept all about? Some say we are doing more with less. Which is not possible, we can only do less with less. What we can do is realign what our priorities are based on the situation, our abilities and what we do have. Our success on the fire ground comes from our accomplishments off of it. Engine configuration such as tool selection and storage. Hose loads and setup that fit form and function. Realistic SOPS/SOGS that empower initial arriving units to make solid tactical decisions. Training programs that reflect how personnel will perform real world actions.Most importantly, our members understand the modern fire ground is dynamic and changing. We have such a short window to operate, so we must be efficient and get it right the first time.<br />
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Will you find all the answers here? No. Redefining the Engine Company concept is about questions. The fire service cannot afford to simply go with the flow, we must stop and question our actions. Are we operating and training to win on the fire ground? Just as sports teams scout their competition, we too must stay ever vigilant so we will be prepared for the call.<br />
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So if you are interested in helping to the Redefine the Engine Company join in on the conversation. This blog will serve as one resource, while you can find our groups on other social media sites.<br />
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"The traditional engine company role of securing a water supply and stretching the line is still a basic function. However, on the modern fireground, the engine company must simultaneously perform multiple roles while getting water on the fire. The engine company today must be refined and redefined to do more tasks with less than ever before. Therefore, it is essential that your training and standard operating guidelines match what really happens in the street, not in some standard text from a large urban department that has the traditional complement of different companies. It is now up to you to examine your operations and redefine how your engine will respond to these challenges."<br />
<br />Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6435976596553625914.post-80429464005021732812012-09-10T07:49:00.002-07:002012-09-10T08:09:57.064-07:00So we begin.Let's just say I am very excited about this opportunity. Since starting as a Firefighter, Fire Engineering has been such as tremendous resource for me. Whether logging onto the website to see the latest news or seeing the print issue as I open my mailbox, Fire Engineering is a trusted source for training, products, health, safety and news. To be part of this amazing resource is an honor and privledge, no matter in what capacity. <br />
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Look for some posts in the near future and I look foward to this amazing adventure! Thank you, Chris Huston.<br />
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Firefighter Christopher Hustonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03088441068170696319noreply@blogger.com0