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Training
Comment: August 2010
As outgoing CAFC president Bruce Burrell made the rounds of provincial fire chiefs association conferences this spring and summer, his message was clear:
As outgoing CAFC president Bruce Burrell made the rounds of provincial fire chiefs association conferences this spring and summer, his message was clear:
Flashpoint: August 2010
It occurred to me that many of the topics I have covered in FlashPoint columns are manifestations of the larger issue of risk management and control.
It occurred to me that many of the topics I have covered in FlashPoint columns are manifestations of the larger issue of risk management and control.
Trainer's Corner: August 2010
This Trainer’s Corner column is a collection of training drills that we at Canwest Fire have used to get firefighters more comfortable while wearing SCBA in immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) environments. You are welcome to change them to fit your department’s training guidelines.
This Trainer’s Corner column is a collection of training drills that we at Canwest Fire have used to get firefighters more comfortable while wearing SCBA in immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) environments. You are welcome to change them to fit your department’s training guidelines.
Back to Basics: August 2010
We have been looking at several aspects of ground ladders and how they are effective on the fire ground. In June we reviewed ladder placement angles and how we can ladder a building quickly for rescue without having to check for a proper angle.
We have been looking at several aspects of ground ladders and how they are effective on the fire ground. In June we reviewed ladder placement angles and how we can ladder a building quickly for rescue without having to check for a proper angle.
Back to Basics July 2010
Among the tactical considerations during a rapid intervention team operation is making sure we increase the mayday firefighter’s chances of survival. We can do this by applying the acronym AWARE to every rescue of a mayday firefighter. AWARE stands for air, water, a radio and extrication. This acronym helps the incident commander and it helps the RIT members remember what to address first, second, third and last with respect to the rescue. We will explore each of these important and crucial ingredients in the next few issues. For starters, let’s look at the letter A – for air.
Among the tactical considerations during a rapid intervention team operation is making sure we increase the mayday firefighter’s chances of survival. We can do this by applying the acronym AWARE to every rescue of a mayday firefighter. AWARE stands for air, water, a radio and extrication. This acronym helps the incident commander and it helps the RIT members remember what to address first, second, third and last with respect to the rescue. We will explore each of these important and crucial ingredients in the next few issues. For starters, let’s look at the letter A – for air.
Lessons learned
Like most volunteer firefighters, Tony Ferguson wears two hats. He’s a high school teacher in Renfrew, Ont., near Ottawa. And he’s the chief medical officer for the White Lake Volunteer Fire Department who knows the challenges of volunteer recruitment and retention.
Like most volunteer firefighters, Tony Ferguson wears two hats. He’s a high school teacher in Renfrew, Ont., near Ottawa. And he’s the chief medical officer for the White Lake Volunteer Fire Department who knows the challenges of volunteer recruitment and retention.
FitSmart July 2010
Every fire department has its issues and always will, but, for the most part, the global community of firefighters is a very tightly knit group. Fire departments are rich in tradition and are filled with camaraderie and teamwork among their members.
With that camaraderie comes plenty of opportunity to get involved in the activities that bring firefighters closer together.
Without a doubt, one of the biggest celebrations of the firefighting community lies within the World Police & Fire Games.
Every fire department has its issues and always will, but, for the most part, the global community of firefighters is a very tightly knit group. Fire departments are rich in tradition and are filled with camaraderie and teamwork among their members.
With that camaraderie comes plenty of opportunity to get involved in the activities that bring firefighters closer together.
Without a doubt, one of the biggest celebrations of the firefighting community lies within the World Police & Fire Games.
Comment: June 2010
I’m writing this in the nation’s capital during the Ottawa FIRE Symposium, an impressive, week-long affair that features world-renowned speakers and incredible science-of-fire workshops put on by the National Research Council, a national treasure if ever there were one.
I’m writing this in the nation’s capital during the Ottawa FIRE Symposium, an impressive, week-long affair that features world-renowned speakers and incredible science-of-fire workshops put on by the National Research Council, a national treasure if ever there were one.
Flashpoint: June 2010
And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. . . and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.
-Acts 4: 32-35
And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. . . and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.
-Acts 4: 32-35
Back to Basics: June 2010
Ground ladders are a big part of truck company operations. As mentioned in Back to Basics in September 2009, firefighters need to train and practise the raising and placing of ground ladders with just one person. Due to manpower issues, we cannot always dedicate two people to raising a 24-foot ground ladder. Ideally, a single firefighter can effectively ladder a residential structure.
Ground ladders are a big part of truck company operations. As mentioned in Back to Basics in September 2009, firefighters need to train and practise the raising and placing of ground ladders with just one person. Due to manpower issues, we cannot always dedicate two people to raising a 24-foot ground ladder. Ideally, a single firefighter can effectively ladder a residential structure.
Trainer's Corner: June 2010
For more than two decades, I have taught the wildland fire suppression and firefighter safety classes to wildland and structural firefighters. Next to firefighter safety and fire behaviour, the major emphasis is placed on mop-up. The first priority is to contain the fire. Once we have the fire contained by use of a fire line adequate for weather conditions, fuel type and terrain, we concentrate on extinguishment.
For more than two decades, I have taught the wildland fire suppression and firefighter safety classes to wildland and structural firefighters. Next to firefighter safety and fire behaviour, the major emphasis is placed on mop-up. The first priority is to contain the fire. Once we have the fire contained by use of a fire line adequate for weather conditions, fuel type and terrain, we concentrate on extinguishment.
Moving Forward
When faced with a large and complex challenge it’s easy to find an excuse to ignore it.
When faced with a large and complex challenge it’s easy to find an excuse to ignore it.
Back to Basics: May 2010
In February I attended a factory tour of Snap-Tite Hose Inc. in Erie, Pa. The tour involved two plants that produce rubber-jacketed and cotton-jacketed fire hose. The fire hose is the main tool used in engine company operations, for both attack and supply lines, as one of the major jobs of the engine company is to deliver water both on the fire and to the apparatus.
In February I attended a factory tour of Snap-Tite Hose Inc. in Erie, Pa. The tour involved two plants that produce rubber-jacketed and cotton-jacketed fire hose. The fire hose is the main tool used in engine company operations, for both attack and supply lines, as one of the major jobs of the engine company is to deliver water both on the fire and to the apparatus.
Truck Checks: May 2010
Water tanks are a very important component of the fire truck and are often overlooked and under maintained. Water tanks are usually made of steel or plastic.
Water tanks are a very important component of the fire truck and are often overlooked and under maintained. Water tanks are usually made of steel or plastic.
Flashpoint: May 2010
Riker: One of the reasons you’ve been given command is so you can make a few right decisions, which will establish a pattern of success and help build self-confidence. If you don’t trust your own judgement, you don’t belong in the command chair.
Riker: One of the reasons you’ve been given command is so you can make a few right decisions, which will establish a pattern of success and help build self-confidence. If you don’t trust your own judgement, you don’t belong in the command chair.
Trainer's Corner: May 2010
This column will be somewhat of a review. Samuel Johnson, a writer in the 1700s, said “People need to be reminded more often than they need to be instructed.” I trust these reminders of the dangers of dealing with meth labs will benefit your department.
This column will be somewhat of a review. Samuel Johnson, a writer in the 1700s, said “People need to be reminded more often than they need to be instructed.” I trust these reminders of the dangers of dealing with meth labs will benefit your department.
The 24-hour debate
In January, the Kitchener Fire Department in Ontario adopted a 24-hour shift for its 188 full-time firefighters.
In January, the Kitchener Fire Department in Ontario adopted a 24-hour shift for its 188 full-time firefighters.
Back to Basics: April 2010
The thermal imaging camera has changed the way rapid intervention teams operate. RIT members no longer function blindly inside structures that are on fire.
The thermal imaging camera has changed the way rapid intervention teams operate. RIT members no longer function blindly inside structures that are on fire.
Extrication Tips: April 2010
In the January column on big rig rescue, we discussed the anatomy of large trucks and trailers and a few late-model design characteristics that pertain to their construction. Here, we will focus on arrival, assessment, stabilization and interior rescue duties.
In the January column on big rig rescue, we discussed the anatomy of large trucks and trailers and a few late-model design characteristics that pertain to their construction. Here, we will focus on arrival, assessment, stabilization and interior rescue duties.
Occupational athletes
Firefighters and EMS workers often suffer injuries in the line of duty. As “occupational athletes” first responders often face the risk of injury and must frequently cope with chronic pain and disability.
Firefighters and EMS workers often suffer injuries in the line of duty. As “occupational athletes” first responders often face the risk of injury and must frequently cope with chronic pain and disability.
FitSmart: April 2010
Many FitSmart columns have focused on how to become stronger, fitter and faster. This time, we’ll explore the broad world of body composition and how we can live leaner lives through proper training.
Many FitSmart columns have focused on how to become stronger, fitter and faster. This time, we’ll explore the broad world of body composition and how we can live leaner lives through proper training.
Truck Checks: March 2010
It’s important to look at the problems with diesel fuel systems and the filtration needed.
ULSD (ultra low sulphur diesel) fuels are fuels with no more than 15 parts per million of sulphur content.
It’s important to look at the problems with diesel fuel systems and the filtration needed.
ULSD (ultra low sulphur diesel) fuels are fuels with no more than 15 parts per million of sulphur content.
Trainer's Corner: March 2010
The last few topics in Trainer’s Corner have been somewhat intense, so I thought it might be time for something a little lighter. Much like the question asked by the spokesperson for ING Banking, What’s in your wallet? I ask you, What’s in your turnout gear?
The last few topics in Trainer’s Corner have been somewhat intense, so I thought it might be time for something a little lighter. Much like the question asked by the spokesperson for ING Banking, What’s in your wallet? I ask you, What’s in your turnout gear?
Back to Basics: March 2010
In the fire service we have many tools that we carry on our apparatus or in our pockets. Our fascination with tools is a longstanding tradition – just take a look at the vendors at trade shows and you will see hundreds of tools on display.
In the fire service we have many tools that we carry on our apparatus or in our pockets. Our fascination with tools is a longstanding tradition – just take a look at the vendors at trade shows and you will see hundreds of tools on display.
Truck Checks: February 2010
fire truck’s suspension system has three main functions. The first is fairly obvious – to support the weight of the truck. The second is to cushion the truck chassis when travelling over rough roads.
fire truck’s suspension system has three main functions. The first is fairly obvious – to support the weight of the truck. The second is to cushion the truck chassis when travelling over rough roads.
Trainer's Corner: February 2010
In December’s column we looked at the unique challenges facing those responding to incidents of terrorism. In part 2 of our Olympics primer, we’ll focus on incidents involving multiple patients. Here are some examples of recent multiple-patient responses:
In December’s column we looked at the unique challenges facing those responding to incidents of terrorism. In part 2 of our Olympics primer, we’ll focus on incidents involving multiple patients. Here are some examples of recent multiple-patient responses:
Back to Basics: February 2010
Ground ladders are one of the basic tools that firefighters use on the fire ground. Often, though, we overlook their importance. Knowing how to work ground ladders is crucial and will make our jobs easier.
Ground ladders are one of the basic tools that firefighters use on the fire ground. Often, though, we overlook their importance. Knowing how to work ground ladders is crucial and will make our jobs easier.
Back to Basics: January 2010
In October we discussed tactical considerations when searching for an injured, trapped or lost firefighter and we looked at the differences between a search for a civilian and a search for a firefighter. Here we will review tactical considerations when locating a firefighter with a search rope, or lifeline.
In October we discussed tactical considerations when searching for an injured, trapped or lost firefighter and we looked at the differences between a search for a civilian and a search for a firefighter. Here we will review tactical considerations when locating a firefighter with a search rope, or lifeline.
Extrication Tips: January 2010
In September, I instructed at a two-day big rig rescue symposium in Nisku, Alta. The other two lead instructors were Billy Leach Jr. from North Carolina and George Klemm from Vancouver Island.
In September, I instructed at a two-day big rig rescue symposium in Nisku, Alta. The other two lead instructors were Billy Leach Jr. from North Carolina and George Klemm from Vancouver Island.
Between Alarms: January 2010
Fire fighting as a profession has a rich and interesting history, peppered with milestones dating as far back as 200 BC, when the first fire pump was developed by an Egyptian named Ctesibus.
Fire fighting as a profession has a rich and interesting history, peppered with milestones dating as far back as 200 BC, when the first fire pump was developed by an Egyptian named Ctesibus.
FitSmart: January 2010
Whether you train for yourself, those around you or purely just for function, everyone needs to train with purpose. If nothing else, the overall well-being we can achieve through our health and fitness programs
Whether you train for yourself, those around you or purely just for function, everyone needs to train with purpose. If nothing else, the overall well-being we can achieve through our health and fitness programs
Top of the world
Canadian firefighters had their best showing ever at the World Firefighter Combat Challenge in Las Vegas in November, claiming victories in seven categories and beating seasoned veterans and previous champions.
Canadian firefighters had their best showing ever at the World Firefighter Combat Challenge in Las Vegas in November, claiming victories in seven categories and beating seasoned veterans and previous champions.
Blue Card Command
Firefighters will often part company at the end of a shift by saying, “See you at the big one.” One of the oddities of our subculture is that such a phrase usually is received with a smile. Even as 9-11 begins to fade from our immediate consciousnesses we are willing, and even eager, to face that one career-defining incident that would bring out all hands.
Firefighters will often part company at the end of a shift by saying, “See you at the big one.” One of the oddities of our subculture is that such a phrase usually is received with a smile. Even as 9-11 begins to fade from our immediate consciousnesses we are willing, and even eager, to face that one career-defining incident that would bring out all hands.
Truck Checks: December 2009
Sisyphus was an ancient Greek king who angered the god Zeus. He was condemned to push a very heavy boulder up a steep mountain. Just before quitting time each night he was to stand aside and let the boulder roll all the way back to the bottom of the mountain.
Sisyphus was an ancient Greek king who angered the god Zeus. He was condemned to push a very heavy boulder up a steep mountain. Just before quitting time each night he was to stand aside and let the boulder roll all the way back to the bottom of the mountain.
Trainer's Corner: December 2009
In a matter of days it will be 2010. For us in British Columbia, this means the celebration of the Winter Olympics. Whistler’s population is expected to increase to 55,000 from 10,000. The increase in population, the transportation needs and the threat of terrorism will certainly challenge emergency first responders.
In a matter of days it will be 2010. For us in British Columbia, this means the celebration of the Winter Olympics. Whistler’s population is expected to increase to 55,000 from 10,000. The increase in population, the transportation needs and the threat of terrorism will certainly challenge emergency first responders.
Hands-on training
On Aug. 2, 2005, Air France Flight 358 was inbound to Lester B. Pearson International Airport in Toronto from Paris with 12 crew and 297 passengers. Thunderstorms near the airport drenched the runways and created strong winds that changed direction erratically.
On Aug. 2, 2005, Air France Flight 358 was inbound to Lester B. Pearson International Airport in Toronto from Paris with 12 crew and 297 passengers. Thunderstorms near the airport drenched the runways and created strong winds that changed direction erratically.
Back to Basics: November 2009
All fire-service operations are conducted with safety as a priority. One of the most dangerous tasks we perform is raising ladders.
Overhead wires and other obstructions make raising ladders a particularly dangerous task. Electrical wires have been a killer of firefighters on the fire ground numerous times.
All fire-service operations are conducted with safety as a priority. One of the most dangerous tasks we perform is raising ladders.
Overhead wires and other obstructions make raising ladders a particularly dangerous task. Electrical wires have been a killer of firefighters on the fire ground numerous times.
Trainer's Corner: November 2009
Before I launch into this month’s discussion, I would like to express my thanks for your feedback regarding a mayday protocol for the Canadian fire services. It seems that firefighters support a national standard for calling and responding to a mayday, yet the response from provincial fire commissioners and fire chiefs associations is frustratingly slow.
Before I launch into this month’s discussion, I would like to express my thanks for your feedback regarding a mayday protocol for the Canadian fire services. It seems that firefighters support a national standard for calling and responding to a mayday, yet the response from provincial fire commissioners and fire chiefs associations is frustratingly slow.
Truck Checks: November 2009
About 10 years ago the diesel engine industry brought in some very interesting technology to reduce NOx levels (There are a number of Nitrogen oxide compounds that can be produced as a by-product of diesel engine exhaust so it’s easier to group them all together as NOxs rather than pointing them out separately, hence the x designation.)
About 10 years ago the diesel engine industry brought in some very interesting technology to reduce NOx levels (There are a number of Nitrogen oxide compounds that can be produced as a by-product of diesel engine exhaust so it’s easier to group them all together as NOxs rather than pointing them out separately, hence the x designation.)
FitSmart: October 2009
Technology has evolved dramatically in recent years and the fitness industry is no exception. The world of supplementation has exploded to the point where there is a supplement for everything. Whether these supplements make a noticeable difference is up for discussion but it seems that scientists are trying to create a remedy for just about everything people seek.
Technology has evolved dramatically in recent years and the fitness industry is no exception. The world of supplementation has exploded to the point where there is a supplement for everything. Whether these supplements make a noticeable difference is up for discussion but it seems that scientists are trying to create a remedy for just about everything people seek.
Extrication Tips: October 2009
In June I had an opportunity to work on concrete truck rollover accident simulations. The idea came to me after my department responded to a concrete-truck-versus-car accident that resulted in five fatalities – an entire family taken in the blink of an eye.
In June I had an opportunity to work on concrete truck rollover accident simulations. The idea came to me after my department responded to a concrete-truck-versus-car accident that resulted in five fatalities – an entire family taken in the blink of an eye.
Back to Basics: October 2009
Tactics are an essential part of the fireground operation. They allow us to plan our attacks methodically, which, in turn, makes our jobs a little bit easier. When it comes to RIT operations, we can use tactics to help us in our efforts to rescue firefighters. Let’s look at some tactical considerations that will help us in RIT operations.
Tactics are an essential part of the fireground operation. They allow us to plan our attacks methodically, which, in turn, makes our jobs a little bit easier. When it comes to RIT operations, we can use tactics to help us in our efforts to rescue firefighters. Let’s look at some tactical considerations that will help us in RIT operations.
Fire IQ: October 2009
Every so often, information emerges that seems so important and potentially life saving that you feel a need to share it with everyone. Such was the case when I attended a high-rise firefighting symposium presented by the Fire Department of New York and learned of new research about wind-driven fires in high-rises.
Every so often, information emerges that seems so important and potentially life saving that you feel a need to share it with everyone. Such was the case when I attended a high-rise firefighting symposium presented by the Fire Department of New York and learned of new research about wind-driven fires in high-rises.
Standard operating procedure
In 2008, 50 of the 114 U.S. firefighters who died on duty perished due to overexertion. At 43.8 per cent of all fatalities, overexertion, or heart attacks, were the biggest killer of firefighters compared to other causes of death. The next largest killer – vehicle collisions – came in at 25.4 per cent.
In 2008, 50 of the 114 U.S. firefighters who died on duty perished due to overexertion. At 43.8 per cent of all fatalities, overexertion, or heart attacks, were the biggest killer of firefighters compared to other causes of death. The next largest killer – vehicle collisions – came in at 25.4 per cent.
Truck Checks: September 2009
Lubrication of transfer cases and fire pumps is crucial. The Waterous transfer case uses an oil splash system and a supplementary pump that draws oil from a sump strainer and sprays it on the chain drive. As this transfer case uses a chain drive, automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is the strainer lubricant of choice for this manufacturer
Lubrication of transfer cases and fire pumps is crucial. The Waterous transfer case uses an oil splash system and a supplementary pump that draws oil from a sump strainer and sprays it on the chain drive. As this transfer case uses a chain drive, automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is the strainer lubricant of choice for this manufacturer
Back to Basics: September 2009
In August we introduced the concept of truck company operations. We identified the 10 functions within which a truck company operates and looked at some simple tips on overhaul operations. A big part of truck company operations is ladders, especially ground ladders.
In August we introduced the concept of truck company operations. We identified the 10 functions within which a truck company operates and looked at some simple tips on overhaul operations. A big part of truck company operations is ladders, especially ground ladders.
Truck Checks: August 2009
Get your creeper and trouble light and put your coveralls on. Make sure the truck’s wheels are chocked and the brakes set. If it is not possible to disable the truck then make sure you place the truck out of service and, if possible, have another member of your department make sure no one starts the truck with you under it. Let’s look at rear-axle lubrication.
Get your creeper and trouble light and put your coveralls on. Make sure the truck’s wheels are chocked and the brakes set. If it is not possible to disable the truck then make sure you place the truck out of service and, if possible, have another member of your department make sure no one starts the truck with you under it. Let’s look at rear-axle lubrication.
Back to Basics: August 2009
There are many terms associated with fire service operations. One of those terms is truck company operations. What does this mean? In the Canadian fire service we rarely use this term but we involve ourselves with the operations that are associated with it.
There are many terms associated with fire service operations. One of those terms is truck company operations. What does this mean? In the Canadian fire service we rarely use this term but we involve ourselves with the operations that are associated with it.
Trainer's Corner: August 2009
I have just returned from FDIC Atlantic and, as usual, it was an incredible conference. I was invited to instruct four classes on calling a mayday and fire ground communications. Many of the firefighters were moved to tears as we listened to the radio transmissions from the Sofa Super Store fire in Charleston, S.C.
I have just returned from FDIC Atlantic and, as usual, it was an incredible conference. I was invited to instruct four classes on calling a mayday and fire ground communications. Many of the firefighters were moved to tears as we listened to the radio transmissions from the Sofa Super Store fire in Charleston, S.C.
Extrication Tips: Raising the roof
When it comes to patient removal from crashed vehicles there are many options to be considered regarding the path of egress – issues such as access to the patient, degree or level of entrapment, and compartment intrusion. Rescuers need to determine the safest, most effective and least time-consuming path of patient egress based on the patient’s condition.
When it comes to patient removal from crashed vehicles there are many options to be considered regarding the path of egress – issues such as access to the patient, degree or level of entrapment, and compartment intrusion. Rescuers need to determine the safest, most effective and least time-consuming path of patient egress based on the patient’s condition.
FitSmart: July 2009
I still remember my first CrossFit experience. I was about 20 and I didn’t know it but CrossFit had been around for as long as I had. I was exhausted after my final set of squats for the day and began walking through the crowded gym toward the fountain.
I still remember my first CrossFit experience. I was about 20 and I didn’t know it but CrossFit had been around for as long as I had. I was exhausted after my final set of squats for the day and began walking through the crowded gym toward the fountain.
Back to Basics: Mayday, mayday, mayday
When we hear the word mayday we immediately think of disaster. The word mayday is meant to grab our attention for immediate resolution or help. We often hear the word on television or in movies when a plane is in distress. Pilots are trained to declare a mayday as soon as they encounter any kind of danger
When we hear the word mayday we immediately think of disaster. The word mayday is meant to grab our attention for immediate resolution or help. We often hear the word on television or in movies when a plane is in distress. Pilots are trained to declare a mayday as soon as they encounter any kind of danger
Fire IQ: July 2009
When I began my fire service career 30 years ago, my department equipped me and my fellow firefighters with the best personal protective equipment available. Our standard issue consisted of a pair of thigh-high rubber boots, a three-quarter-length petch coat, rubber gloves and a pretty decent Cairns helmet with ear flaps.
When I began my fire service career 30 years ago, my department equipped me and my fellow firefighters with the best personal protective equipment available. Our standard issue consisted of a pair of thigh-high rubber boots, a three-quarter-length petch coat, rubber gloves and a pretty decent Cairns helmet with ear flaps.
Back to Basics: The art of low profiling
SCBA is one of our most important pieces of equipment. It protects us from IDLH (immediate danger to life and health) atmospheres and has been considered the key in the advancement of today’s fire service.
SCBA is one of our most important pieces of equipment. It protects us from IDLH (immediate danger to life and health) atmospheres and has been considered the key in the advancement of today’s fire service.
Truck Checks: Total connected load
Put up your hand if you’ve had battery or starting problems on your fire truck. The problem could be the total connected load ( TCL), one of the most misunderstood factors affecting apparatus operation. The relationship between TCL and alternator output is very important and is often overlooked during construction of new apparatus and in the diagnoses of problems during repair of older apparatus. By definition, TCL is the amount of electrical power needed to operate the vehicle while on scene or enroute.
Put up your hand if you’ve had battery or starting problems on your fire truck. The problem could be the total connected load ( TCL), one of the most misunderstood factors affecting apparatus operation. The relationship between TCL and alternator output is very important and is often overlooked during construction of new apparatus and in the diagnoses of problems during repair of older apparatus. By definition, TCL is the amount of electrical power needed to operate the vehicle while on scene or enroute.
Trainer’s Corner: Wildland fire preparedness
Wildland fires are associated with out-of-control burning, high intensity, high flames and high rates of spread. Fed by high temperatures, low humidity and low rainfall, the fire-prone vegetation that shares space with manmade structures can destroy whole communities. Each year, there are thousands of forest fires in Canada. Although most are far from populated areas, there have certainly been tragic exceptions.
Wildland fires are associated with out-of-control burning, high intensity, high flames and high rates of spread. Fed by high temperatures, low humidity and low rainfall, the fire-prone vegetation that shares space with manmade structures can destroy whole communities. Each year, there are thousands of forest fires in Canada. Although most are far from populated areas, there have certainly been tragic exceptions.
Handling highrises
Highrise buildings have long posed challenges for fire services. Although highrise fires are rare, these multi-storey buildings are complex structures. Highrise fires, therefore, demand large numbers of fire service personnel and pose occupant control and evacuation problems.
Highrise buildings have long posed challenges for fire services. Although highrise fires are rare, these multi-storey buildings are complex structures. Highrise fires, therefore, demand large numbers of fire service personnel and pose occupant control and evacuation problems.
Trainer's Corner: May 2009
Canwest Fire recently concluded its third H.O.T. session for calling a mayday. The results of our three sessions may help your department. A total of 40 firefighters (full time/paid on call) were tested.
Canwest Fire recently concluded its third H.O.T. session for calling a mayday. The results of our three sessions may help your department. A total of 40 firefighters (full time/paid on call) were tested.
Back to Basics: May 2009
Are you doing everything you can to hit the hydrant? Even though this is a basic task, we often overlook the importance of executing it effectively. We have all seen pictures of hydrants with their supply lines snaking through car windows or underneath vehicles, all twisted and full of kinks.
Are you doing everything you can to hit the hydrant? Even though this is a basic task, we often overlook the importance of executing it effectively. We have all seen pictures of hydrants with their supply lines snaking through car windows or underneath vehicles, all twisted and full of kinks.
Truck Checks: May 2009
The NFPA defines an interlock as a device or arrangement of devices in which the operation of one part or one mechanism of the device controls the operation of another part of another mechanism.
The NFPA defines an interlock as a device or arrangement of devices in which the operation of one part or one mechanism of the device controls the operation of another part of another mechanism.
Back to basics: RIT staging and procedures
In January, we discussed when to implement a rapid intervention team. Now, we will consider where the RIT will be staged and some procedures to follow.
In January, we discussed when to implement a rapid intervention team. Now, we will consider where the RIT will be staged and some procedures to follow.
Fire IQ
Since fires always go out, and since we usually don’t injure or kill firefighters in the process, we often walk away from those fires believing that things generally went well. But did they really? And are we doing everything in our power to ensure a culture that supports firefighter safety and survival?
Since fires always go out, and since we usually don’t injure or kill firefighters in the process, we often walk away from those fires believing that things generally went well. But did they really? And are we doing everything in our power to ensure a culture that supports firefighter safety and survival?
Extrication Tips: Using the air chisel
In the January issue we talked about air chisels in general, including their basic design, function, proper use and why they are gaining popularity again.
In the January issue we talked about air chisels in general, including their basic design, function, proper use and why they are gaining popularity again.
FitSmart: The basics of building
Most women on this planet would argue that men are fairly simple creatures. The more I learn about myself, and men and women in general, the more I unfortunately tend to agree.
Most women on this planet would argue that men are fairly simple creatures. The more I learn about myself, and men and women in general, the more I unfortunately tend to agree.
Trainer's Corner: The dangers of the front wall
Trainer’s Corner is dedicated to giving you the tools to make good judgment calls on the fire ground. “Good judgment comes from experience. Experience comes from bad judgment.” (Author unknown) Unfortunately, in our profession, bad judgment can result in devastating and sometimes fatal results.
Trainer’s Corner is dedicated to giving you the tools to make good judgment calls on the fire ground. “Good judgment comes from experience. Experience comes from bad judgment.” (Author unknown) Unfortunately, in our profession, bad judgment can result in devastating and sometimes fatal results.
Back to Basics: Re-introducing the 2.5-inch hose
In the fire service we always look for ways to improve ourselves either through technology or our methods of operation. We have seen this with the introduction of the thermal imaging camera, 1.5-inch hose, two-inch hose, positive pressure ventilation fire attack and other advancements.
In the fire service we always look for ways to improve ourselves either through technology or our methods of operation. We have seen this with the introduction of the thermal imaging camera, 1.5-inch hose, two-inch hose, positive pressure ventilation fire attack and other advancements.
Truck Checks: Diagnosing starter condition
During a recent fourth-year heavy equipment technician class we set out to determine whether an oscilloscope can be used to diagnose starter condition.
During a recent fourth-year heavy equipment technician class we set out to determine whether an oscilloscope can be used to diagnose starter condition.
Training days
Harbour Grace, N.L. – Many firefighters train in ice/water rescue but not all use these specialized skills over the course of their careers. Recently the Harbour Grace Volunteer Fire Brigade was tested in an incident involving teenage boys, risks and, unfortunately, tragedy.
Harbour Grace, N.L. – Many firefighters train in ice/water rescue but not all use these specialized skills over the course of their careers. Recently the Harbour Grace Volunteer Fire Brigade was tested in an incident involving teenage boys, risks and, unfortunately, tragedy.
Back to Basics: Easy check-in system for SCBA
We all know the routine – every time we come on shift or conduct our monthly or bi-weekly truck checks, we are supposed to check our SCBAs. In the full-time departments, this is standard operating procedure. In the volunteer departments, this is also a part of the basic operational procedures.
We all know the routine – every time we come on shift or conduct our monthly or bi-weekly truck checks, we are supposed to check our SCBAs. In the full-time departments, this is standard operating procedure. In the volunteer departments, this is also a part of the basic operational procedures.
Truck Checks: Apparatus 101 – part 2
Get out your study guides! This month’s Truck Check features the second half of the fire apparatus assessment exam. This set of questions picks up where our December issue left off, rounding out the section dealing with electrical objectives questions
Get out your study guides! This month’s Truck Check features the second half of the fire apparatus assessment exam. This set of questions picks up where our December issue left off, rounding out the section dealing with electrical objectives questions
Choosing top-quality protein power
Three-quarters of the world’s population is taking some form of vitamin or supplement. Whether it is a simple vitamin C, meal replacement protein or some sort of advanced workout formula, people are looking more and more to supplement their meals to improve their health.
Three-quarters of the world’s population is taking some form of vitamin or supplement. Whether it is a simple vitamin C, meal replacement protein or some sort of advanced workout formula, people are looking more and more to supplement their meals to improve their health.
Extrication Tips: The evolution of the air chisel
Hand-held rescue tools such as the pneumatic air chisel were the tools of the trade prior to the introduction of hydraulic cutters, rams and spreaders. The chisel still had a place on the truck, but was used less and less frequently as time went on.
Hand-held rescue tools such as the pneumatic air chisel were the tools of the trade prior to the introduction of hydraulic cutters, rams and spreaders. The chisel still had a place on the truck, but was used less and less frequently as time went on.
Back to Basics: A how-to for RIT response
I’m often asked by firefighters when their departments should implement rapid intervention teams. In my opinion, RITs should be implemented right away. However, other fire department operational capacities may hinder this. Let’s look at a few points surrounding implementation the RIT.
I’m often asked by firefighters when their departments should implement rapid intervention teams. In my opinion, RITs should be implemented right away. However, other fire department operational capacities may hinder this. Let’s look at a few points surrounding implementation the RIT.
Truck Checks: Apparatus 101: Test your skills
What are emergency vehicle technicians? They are people of many skills – small engine mechanic, automotive and heavy duty technician, plumber with a dash of auto body artist throw in. They are people who are willing to accept the tremendous responsibility for the results of their work. Simply put, unless you walk to the fire, you need these people.
What are emergency vehicle technicians? They are people of many skills – small engine mechanic, automotive and heavy duty technician, plumber with a dash of auto body artist throw in. They are people who are willing to accept the tremendous responsibility for the results of their work. Simply put, unless you walk to the fire, you need these people.
