Jeremy and Steve Barton discuss the intricacies of the fire service, emphasizing the importance of relationships, mentorship, and adapting to a younger workforce. They explore the challenges and changes in firefighting, including the impact of technology, the significance of RIT and Mayday policies, and the culture within fire departments today. Steve shares his journey from a truck firefighter to an engine company lieutenant, highlighting the value of training and the camaraderie found in organizations like the New England Fools. The discussion culminates in a reflection on the passion for the job and the responsibility to mentor the next generation of firefighters.

Takeaways

• Relationships are crucial in the fire service.
• Mentorship can come from many sources.
• Every interaction is a learning opportunity.
• The fire service is trending younger.
• Technology is changing how we train and operate.
• RIT and Mayday policies should be integrated.
• Self-rescue training is essential for safety.
• Passion for the job should be openly shared.
• The culture of firefighting is evolving.
• Training and experience are key to reducing risks.

In this episode, we talk summer fires, the stack effect, and why reading smoke isn’t just about color, volume, and velocity. Heat, humidity, and building behavior change the game—if you’re not paying attention to the details on arrival, you’re already behind the eight ball.

The "NO" Culture... controlling the narrative with the power of NO. Weak leaders, those who lack confidence in their own skills and abilities will never lift up those around them with the power of YES. This is a segment of Jeremy's Bridging the Gap program from Kings Park, NY.

In this conversation, Jeremy Donch and Glenn Corbett explore the rich history and traditions of the fire service, emphasizing the importance of understanding the past for new recruits. They discuss personal journeys in the fire service, the evolution of training and education, and the critical role of building construction in firefighter safety. The conversation highlights the challenges posed by modern lightweight construction and the need for updated codes and regulations. Mentorship and research are also underscored as vital components for the future of fire safety and the development of new firefighters.

Takeaways

The history and traditions of the fire service are crucial for new recruits.

Engaging with the history of one's department fosters pride and ownership.

Fire training should adapt to the needs of younger generations.

Understanding building construction is vital for firefighter safety.

The fire service must advocate for better building codes.

There is a disconnect between fire service practices and modern building construction.

Mentorship is essential for the growth of new firefighters.

Research and education play a key role in advancing fire safety.

Firefighters need to be aware of the risks associated with lightweight construction.

Legacy and personal connections in the fire service shape careers. The concept of hands-on training in firefighting began with the idea of making training more participatory.

Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping the careers of firefighters.

Historical events have significantly influenced modern firefighting practices and safety protocols.

The importance of family legacy in the fire service is paramount.

Firefighters must learn from past incidents to improve future responses.

Building construction knowledge is essential for firefighter safety.

The fire service is evolving, and new generations may not have the same connection to it.

History provides valuable lessons that can prevent future tragedies.

Firefighters need to balance aggressiveness with safety in their operations.

Education and advocacy are vital for the future of the fire service.

👉 Take this conversation back to the firehouse and talk about it. Because when we’re talking about the job, we’re making the job better.

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In this conversation, Tom Jenkins discusses the evolution of data collection in the fire service, emphasizing the importance of the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) system. He highlights the challenges of standardizing data across various departments and the need for a cultural shift within the fire service to embrace data-driven decision-making. Tom shares insights on how the NERIS system aims to streamline data collection, making it easier for firefighters to contribute valuable information that can enhance community safety and operational efficiency. He also stresses the importance of collaboration and engagement at all levels of the fire service to ensure the success of this initiative.

In this chapter, I discuss the new podcast channel and the idea that size-up doesn’t stop after the initial look—it’s continuous. I also discuss the heads-up display (HUD) and how it can serve as a quiet metronome on the fire floor and floors above, helping us track timing, tempo, and the overall rhythm of your operation.

In this episode, Jeremy Donch speaks with John Kane, the coordinator of education and outreach for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF). They discuss the mission of the NFFF, which is to honor fallen firefighters, assist their families, and prevent future tragedies in the fire service. John shares insights into the various educational programs offered by the NFFF, including in-person training and online resources, aimed at improving firefighter safety and leadership. The conversation also highlights the importance of the Courage to Be Safe initiative and the personal journey of advocacy within the fire service.

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob breaks down the growing spectrum of violence first responders face—from assaults and stabbings to vehicle rammings and ambush-style shootings. Drawing on real incidents and his class Active Shooter: Fire Department Personnel in the Line of Fire, Rob highlights how these threats are evolving—and what we must do to stay ahead of them.