Influential people come into our lives at different seasons of our lives and the wisdom they share is sometimes realized and devoured immediately and then sometimes it needs time to permeate our brains and seep into our  hearts.

         My football coach in eighth grade was one of those influential people in my life. One day in practice at the start of our season, he noticed we were merely going through the motions but not giving it our all. “What you do in practice is what you do in the game!” This piece of advice I took to heart then and gave it my all every practice. When I grew older I discovered the deeper meaning of my coach’s challenge to us. You see, the simple quote marinated in my development of my work ethic. If you think for a moment, anything in life you prepare for needs to have the focus of preparing like you prepare for the big game!

         Now those of my fire service buddies who know me, know I love training. I wish the culture of my career department were to train on some facet of the fire service each shift if even for only an hour! It is this absence of training, or better yet, the collective desire, to train like we are going to perform on the fireground!

         How many fire scenes have you looked at lately where you notice the tell tale signs of the smoke that trigger your instinct of what needs to be done only to progress through the pictures to see the roof burnt off and smoke stains from every orifice of the structure?

         For those few pictorials we see of firegrounds where the roof is intact and the fire has been contained to one quadrant of the structure, one thing had to have happened! Can you guess what it was? COORDINATED FIREGROUND ATTACK! A rare sighting to be sure!

         Let’s go back to the sports scene for a moment. What’s your favorite team sport? Ok, now think of the best play that you love that made ESPN’s top ten plays of the day! Most likely each team member had a role to play and did so in harmony and without thinking about it to achieve this memorable play.

         Coordinated Fireground Attack is a team sport and requires repetitive training to achieve the memorable and favorable outcome (especially since we are not seeing the fires we once did!).

         Just so our younger fire service members know exactly what I mean by Coordinated Fireground Attack, I’m talking about the truckies forcing the door, the engine advancing the hose while inside truck performs a primary search of victim AND THE FIRE. While this is going on, the outside truck is laddering the roof and reading the smoke that’s starting to seep from under the shingles at the ridge. Peaked roof ventilation is in progress while the attack group approaches the seat of the fire and quenches the red devil!

         The dynamics of fire and fire development are founded in physics and to the best of my knowledge, the laws of physics don’t change each year after FDIC is over! So why is it so hard for leadership to accept the reality that training is the key to a more favorable outcome on the fireground not to mention it helps ensure everyone goes home?

         Why are we prone to latching on to the latest buzzwords like ‘profiling’ the fire? Why are we content to say, ‘There was too much fire and we didn’t want to take unnecessary risks?’ How can we argue with the downtown city dwellers about the cost of adequate staffing when we keep allowing structures to burn to the ground? Why do we keep performing the same training regimen and expect different outcomes on the fireground?

         If we paused for one moment and looked at the hundreds of thousands of dollars that are allowed to go up in smoke, perhaps we could collectively consider investing in effective training props and scenarios that will take Coordinated Fireground Attack off the endangered species list and place the Fire Dragon back on it! One real-time coordinated fireground attack scenario quarterly with your first due assignment is all I am asking for. I would bet a fire hall paycheck that in twelve month’s time the results on the scene would speak for themselves and morale would be improved in the process!

         Remember to train like your life depends on it … and maybe your job too because they do!

In article after article and blog post after blog post I gaze with soft eyes at the material being placed into the hearts and minds of this Nations very young and ultimately often inexperienced fire service. Amazing catch phrases and profound statements like “risk little to save little”, “big fire – big water”, “risk vs. reward” more often than not from guys and gals with resumes as long as this blog entry. Resumes so long that if you’re like me, you get bored just reading them. Class after class, one accreditation flowing seamlessly into another; your eyes stare in awe at the seemingly endless stream of knowledge that these “authors” must possess behind those magical finger tips that typed such thought provoking words as “survivability profiling”. Yes! That’s it; these are the innovative people that will guide our young fire service into the future, teach us right from wrong. These innovative people who rely on their lessons learned from their infinite battle proven firefighting experience to make broad generalizations about the state of the service and….hold on…did you say “infinite battle proven firefighting experience?”

Hmmm, let me go back and check that resume again…instructor 1 thru 1000 – check, Master’s Degree in fire science – check, Command Level Officer in bum “f” anywhere – check, beat up the red devil in his living room and pulled little babies from deaths grasp in defense of his neighbors life and property – che….hey wait a minute, I don’t see that anywhere in this resume! In my haste to read what glorious mind nuggets were hidden in the article of this published “author” it appears I forgot to check their qualification to tell me anything relating to fighting fires. But the article was about “survivability profiling during FIREFIGHTING operations” was it not? (Now before you all flip a lid I pulled that title out of my a%$ so don’t get bent, and if you do, suck it up).

This concept of “checking that resume” before I read an article or watch a video about anything professional (in any field) is something I learned somewhere around 3rd grade. That’s when I realized that the bitchy, unwed, childless, cat infested 40 something year old woman down the street really had no leg to stand on when informing my mother on how to raise her bad-ass 8 year old boy. The same seems to be true in today’s fire service, except someone forgot to tell the new kids the deal. Someone forgot to tell youngins that are new to the game that these so called “experts” can leave their shoes on when counting how many times they have even been in a burning building. Yet we continue to accept these broad generalizations that are shaping the future of tomorrow’s fire service from people who have never really been in today’s fire service. Have we really allowed our brains to get in the way of our ability to protect the public and even ourselves?

When did this become classified as fully involved?

Case in point:

So there I was, typing away on the old office computer when I get a call from my buddy. “Where are you?”  he asks. “My office” I reply. “Well there is a house right down the street on fire and…click” that was the end of that conversation. You see, I do not discriminate, I am an equal opportunity firefighter, I will fight the red devil wherever he may be and as such I tend to allow my name and certifications to appear on the rolls of more than one volunteer fire department. This particular event and jurisdiction will remain nameless to protect (for now) the incompetent and will only be used for demonstration purposes. So up the street I go and sure enough, a 2 story single family home with fire showing from the rear and second floor, “cake” I thought. So I dress up in my fireman costume and survey the scene. Soon enough down the hill comes the 1st engine into this non-hydranted area, followed by the tanker, and comes to a stop. Time for me to play their game… “Hello officer sir, I’m such and such here is my Personal Accountability Tag, I will be attaching myself to your crew, shall I help you pull a handline?” as I look at their crew of three counting the driver.

“No son, pull the Blitz Fire (500 gpm)” (you did read me say non-hydranted did you not?)

“Ah, be advised sir there is a report of a 4th grader missing” I replied as communications and I both tried to will them into an offensive attack.

“There is too much fire, we have to knock it down from out here and then we will go in”…and as is often the case in this area, the calamity of errors continues for the next hour or so. A truck company that brings no ladders to the house, a CAFS bubble party in the front yard, a chiefs buggy stuck in the 3 day rain soaked field next door, a work-free smoke walking contest once finally allowed to attack and even an eventual evacuation once someone decided that the Rapid Intervention Team was not in place (the 2 out was, but they had been redirected to spray water into a rear window). Huh? Yeah that’s what I said. If you’re like me, then you’re probably amazed the tax payers even bother to pay their fire taxes anymore, with such superb service and all.

How did this happen?

How did it come to be this way? Is this truly the future of the fire service, to not fight fires at all? It’s hard to be called out for being wrong when you stand on the side of over-cautiousness with a second helping of safety.  And alas that is where the nation’s authors have gone to avoid confrontation, a catch phrase contest on who can be the safest.

I have a new catch phrase for you, “Return to Effectiveness”. Effective actions combined with appropriate timing to achieve a positive outcome. Effectiveness = fires go out, people get rescued, the fire department does it’s job. Instead of having front yard arguments about the friction loss of a 2in handline or the gallons-per-minute requirements for fire load in 3 rooms instead of 2, how about we just do what works, what is effective, and we put the fire out in the quickest most efficient way possible?

I will not argue the point of GPM numbers with you as apparently it is science; proven fact. But can someone please tell me how many GPM’s from a 2in handline make it to the seat of the fire when the 2-man crew that pulled it can’t get it up the front steps, let alone to the second floor. But they said big fire-big water didn’t they? Ah yes they did, it was right after the article about the shrinking staffing numbers across the country. So let me get this straight, apparently as the average size of an initial attack crew gets smaller the lines we choose to maneuver with less man power should get bigger?…Sorry I don’t follow. How about the 10’s of thousands of gallons of water we lob into second floor windows from the outside of single family homes and then wonder why the floors collapse when we finally go in to do overhaul. Maybe I can get an explanation on how across the country Compressed Air Foam Systems, which are supposed to be the savior of the fire service, are being used as initial attack lines when even a 3rd grader can tell you that fire needs “air” to grow. How several of my associates have been burned because of it yet in many jurisdictions it remains in initial attack use because a report says it puts out fires better than water alone.

Perhaps someone else smarter than me can explain the concept of allowing a fire that doubles in size every 30 seconds wasted minute after wasted minute as marginally trained crews struggle to get their line in service, waiting for the full complement of the alarm to arrive and ensure their “safety”. How much more dangerous is that home now with 10 minutes of free burn time then when we first arrived? Maybe someone can help me understand how National headlines more often read “body found after fire” then “firefighters make daring rescue” although firefighter fatalities don’t decline.

The "Public" is losing faith in the fire service, I promise

Now don’t get it twisted, I support educated decision making. Things like circle and basement checks, information gathering, back up lines, etc. All important things when walking that fine line between duty and stupidity. However what I do not support is the use of the phrase “firefighter safety” and others like it in defense of the coward and cowardous actions. We do the job we were asked to do by our neighbors and our friends, to serve and protect their lives and property with all that we have. If not us, if not the fire department, then who is going to do it?

The fact that I am trying to bring to your attention is our new age “phrases” are killing as many fire fighters and civilians as ever before because of the lack of effectiveness that goes along with them. Is there merit to some of these concepts? Yes of course there is, but if you don’t link them with common sense, the ability to adjust to each situation and the skill to be effective with them then you’re using these concepts as a crutch to hide behind. Fires have been going out for hundreds of years under the same concept; water on fire makes fire go out. Anyone that tells you they have invented an innovative approach that hasn’t been invented in the last 100 years all while going to historically less fires now than ever before is probably just trying to cash in on the naïve (or make an industry name for themselves without actually going to fires to do it).

I challenge each of you to pull yourself above the latest catch phrase and concept, reexamine your ability to do your job, to be honest in your abilities and ask yourself “am I being effective in my efforts or am I merely showing up in my fireman costume to watch a house burn down?” Do not accept a concept just because it was written by someone with a 10 page resume. Examine where these concepts come from, ask yourself if they make sense, step back into the shoes of the public we protect and look at your tactics from their perspective. Don’t let equations and catch phrases get in your way of your ability to be effective on the fireground. Be honest, let common sense prevail, and let’s help America’s fire service make a “Return to Effectiveness”.

Posted in Other Things Fire Department, Traditions Training

       There are many people out there on the job in Fire Departments all across America. In Nashville we have close to 1,500 employees. Some are there for the benefits package, the pay, and the days off. These folks may have a “side job” that is truly their “primary job”. However, there are those that love what being a “fireman” really is. The ability to help someone who can’t help themselves in a time of need, the camaraderie, the brotherhood, the opportunities to “give back.” If you are taking the time to read this article, you are probably in the group that loves the job.
    This article could find a familiar note with many, so feel free to insert your name if appropriate. I know the topic we’ll discuss has been in the past for some, the future for others, and some of you are dealing with it today. What do you do when “Dragon Slaying” isn’t enough?  I’m not talking about a Fire Department that only responds to fire calls, I'm talking about you……….what do you do when YOU are looking for more.
     Several of the guys I know on the job have had this hit them in the last year. For the sake of the story, we pick one guy as our “character.” The guy I’m thinking of  is 33 years old. He’s well grounded in life (church, family, job, etc.) and is enjoyable to be around. He is extremely good at his job, especially in the craft of extinguishing fires. Many of our members (even well respected FF’s and Officers) know of his ability. We’ll just call him “Slayer” for our article. He has been in the fire service for 12 years (all in career agencies), but has spent the last 6 in Nashville. “Slayer” worked in a very busy Engine Co. for 3 or so years prior to his current assignment. He bid to a Rescue Co. and against all odds, received a position. Most guys end up getting a Rescue slot once they have 8+ years in, but “Slayer” got in with 4-1/2 years. He has proven himself to be totally reliable in all situations and there could have not been a better edition to NFD Special Ops than him.
      “Slayer” has found himself in a different position lately. He enjoys his career. He works on a specialized piece of apparatus that responds to structure fires, technical rescues, wrecks with entrapment, and hazardous materials incidents. “Slayer” has got it made….right? The issue he is dealing with now is “when is all that not enough?” For some, this question will never be a thought. For others (like “Slayer”) it will be something that pops in their mind and won’t go away until they deal with it.
        By now, some of you are nodding your heads. Your familiar with “Slayer’s” situation because you have walked this path as well. So what do you do when “Dragon Slaying” isn’t enough? Do you sink back into the recliner so you aren’t ridiculed by less motivated members? Do you coward down knowing you might be labeled a “squirrel?” That would be the easy way out. Hopefully you’ll brave the nay-sayers and help save the rest of us from ourselves.  
     Each member will have different goals, interests, or ideas. The common thread is usually a passion for the profession. The progressive, proactive approach taken by these members that wanted “something more” has opened many doors in the fire service and paved the roads to many of our successes.
            With that being said, what do you do when you realize Dragon Slaying isn’t enough? What path do you take to satisfy that desire in your heart, mind, and soul that burns for something more?

PREPARE

               To gain something more, one must have knowledge. This knowledge is usually gained through a variety of preparations. Many of my mentors and those I currently hold in high regard have gone to great lengths to prepare themselves on this job. This covers a wide spectrum of activities, but each have their place. Most have done this on their own time while spending their own money. Some have pursued Fire Science and Management degrees. Others have specialized in areas such as Paramedic, Haz-Mat Specialist, various Rescue disciplines, etc. They have invested time, money, and energy, while sacrificing other things in life to prepare. This preparation is the firm foundation that many of us will build a career on. This preparation is part of your credibility. If you are prepared and can execute when it matters most, you will be seen as a success and be looked to on a variety of levels to make something wrong into something right.

LISTEN

             One of the favorite things I’ve heard a seasoned fireman tell a “rookie” is “Do you know why God gave us two ears and one mouth?” So we’ll listen twice as much as we speak. Good advice for all, but very important when you are looking for “more.” One of my favorite things to do is listen to old fire stories. There is so much to gain from past experiences.
            The majority on my career in Nashville has been spent around Captains with many years on the job. My first Officer was a Captain before I was born. The Captain I spent most of my time with came on the Job when I was 1-1/2 years old. My current Officer has been on the job for 35 years. The Engine Captain in our house recently celebrated 40 years on the job. What I’m trying to say is listen and learn. Many things have changed since these guys came on the job, but many things have stayed the same. Why re-invent the wheel? Learn from their experiences, gain from their triumphs and failures. Use their past to prepare for your future. There are many opportunities to learn in the firehouse. Take advantage while you can. One day the senior members will be gone…….and you will be in their position.

SEEK LIKE MINDED MEMBERS TO LEAN ON

             As much as I love this job, I have found myself discouraged at times. Many things have factored in (most of which are out of my control), but they somehow seem to pull you down and suck the life out of you. I’m glad this is a rare occurrence for me, but it’s something I know we all deal with.  A true Godsend for you will be a like-minded brother. They have pulled me out of a funk many times. These people will help you with your issues while encouraging you to better yourself. Sometimes a word of encouragement is all you need. These are the members that will travel the same path as you. They will often prepare with you as you both are seeking “more.” You’ll talk/listen with these types and loose track of time. You’ll form friendships, watch each other succeed, and help each other as well as others along the way. Taking things to the next level are always more enjoyable with some company. Each of you (and the organization) will benefit in the long run.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OPPORTUNITIES

If you have made it this far, opportunities should start coming your way. They might not be as fast as you’d like, but they will come. You’ve prepared, you’re aligned with those that love the job and want to see it bettered, and you’ve listened and learned. This is where you must take opportunities when they present. The stage may be big or small, but each can make an impact.
            Almost nine years ago the members of my Station (NFD 3 Truck and Engine) became concerned about the lack of a Firefighter Survival program in our Department. We spoke often on duty about what we could do to raise awareness and be “more” before something horrible occurred. That was in 2002. These members went to many classes, built props in the station, tried different techniques and finally presented the program to the Administration. We began teaching the course in 2003 for our recruits. We just completed our seventh year of this program and have two open enrollment classes coming up. These members were presented an opportunity and made the most of it.
            “Slayer” recently attended a Haz-Mat Tank Car Specialist class. He was tasked to attend then bring back information for the NFD members. “Slayer” and another attendee taught a class for all NFD Haz-Mat companies shortly after his return. Two weeks later he was asked to assist at an IAFF Haz-Mat Tech class. The class was going on a field trip where there were a variety of rail cars, highway containers, and fixed storage units. “Slayer” provided expertise in rail car construction, features, hazards, etc. He made the most of his opportunity and now he’s helping others. He was also recently added to the Firefighter Survival Instructor staff and has been asked to help with the NFD Rope Rescue program as an Instructor.
        The opportunities came his way because of his preparation, reputation on the job, and ability to execute. When the opportunities come your way, don’t turn your back. You never know when they’ll be back……if ever.

EXECUTE

              When your opportunities to be “more” come, you must be prepared to execute. You have probably been very dependable in the past, or you wouldn’t have gotten to this point. This is where your preparation and opportunity come together.
               You’ve practiced with your like-minded members, rolled scenarios in your head, and talked yourself through a variety of situations. You may be performing a difficult task on the scene, representing your agency at a class or function, or presenting information in a formal or informal group. Your performance under a variety of conditions will bring respect and credibility. This respect and credibility will open doors, create opportunities, and allow you to fill your void.

PASS IT ON

              Of all the points we’ve discussed, this one is one of the most important. The impact that comes from passing on your knowledge, skill, and ability will make a difference for many years. You can influence the next generation of “Firemen” while ensuring some level of preparation. You could be helping a rookie or someone like yourself,……someone that’s looking for something “more.” Your example could do many things, so don’t under estimate its effect. Your “more” can become “more” for someone else and so on.
              Once you’ve reached this level, passing things on shouldn’t be just a desire…….it’s a responsibility. Your desire to excel and make a difference has gotten you this far. Your responsibility is to the present and future of our craft and those that perform it. Not only are you insuring the actions and ideas of real “firemen” survive, but you’ll be honoring those that took an interest in you. None of us have been self-made. Others made sacrifices for you and the time to pay it forward is now.
             In closing, I hope each of you reach the point in your career when “Dragon Slaying” just isn’t enough. There are many areas of interest in our occupation that can be discovered, learned, and passed on. Determine your interests, set your goals, and begin your journey. I hope you find some of the information presented here useful along the way.
           The Fire Service is facing more challenges than ever before. Tomorrow’s leaders are born today and we NEED you. As the Brothers continue to do more with less, it will be easy to let ourselves take the path of least resistance. As you think of all the things that you’d like to see changed on this job, I ask you..who is going to help usher in that change? Who’s going to make that transition possible? YOU are the “Slayer’s” of today’s fire service. The future is now. Good luck, stay safe, and make the difference.

Instead of posting the article here, I've attached a link to the photo you see to the left so you can experience one of the many beneficial media focused on our craft. Enjoy!

I once asked the Future Technologies guru for MicroSoft how he looked at what was coming in the future. He simply said, “I look to history to see the future.” This conversation crossed my mind as I sat down to jot some thoughts for this article. Yes, I have a new assignment on Truck 21 B Shift NFD, but I’ve been on a truck before. Since I won my bid for Truck 21 B it was only natural to get a new front piece; it’s all about tradition and keeping the past part of future! Thanks to a brother from Illinois, I was re-acquainted with the short handled 8 lb. sledgehammer while using a 24” halligan for the first time at a Light & Fight. So how does all this fit together? With my new assignment and new crew, training is the key to being prepared for the future of unknown events. Training is a time of feeling comfortable for me. It challenges my mind, body and spirit and teaches me past lessons for future challenges.

While training at the Light & Fight I used a 24” halligan for the first time and came to really like the maneuverability in tight places this shorter version offered me. My brother Andrew Morelli had his cut down 8 lb. sledgehammer and the two tools together tore apart every forcible prop we encountered! So, needless to say, when I knew I was going back to a truck, I had to have my own set of ‘short’ irons. I also wanted to share the Fisherman’s Knot Wrap with you. I am blessed to be on an email list of sorts that includes brothers who love the traditions of the fire service and pass on tips, tricks, and lessons learned which is where the Fisherman’s Knot Wrap came from

PJ Johnson of Kittery Point, Maine tugjake@comcast.net is the author of the illustrated instructions and if you would like a copy, email me and I will gladly pass on the instructions that were shared with me. I used two layers ½” webbing wrapped with gaffer’s tape around the handle of the sledgehammer. I left a loop exposed to catch the adz end of the halligan and I took a piece of 1” steel tube and notched out an opening for the forks of the halligan and then with my grinder, flattened the side of the sledge and then welded the 1” tube on the head of the sledge and then hit it with some red paint. The two marry quite well and when thrown over your shoulder, are easy to carry on the fireground.

I hope these thoughts encourage and challenge you as I eagerly look forward to train and serve with my new crew and hope to keep the past in our future. My hope is that you will train like your life depends on it, because it does; and if you think about it, that’s applying the past (training) so we can live another day (the future) to pass on what we’ve learned to up and coming firefighters!

I’ve seen or been a part of a wide spectrum of events during my life. Many of them have involved the fire service.  That’s how it goes when you grow up in a firehouse and you learn the rules, codes (written and unwritten), and behaviors that co-exist with this type of life.  Many of these traits are still held dear to me today and I try to practice them every time I get a chance.

The thing that stood out the most was the Brotherhood.  I didn’t know the word “Brotherhood” or even what it meant at such a young age, but I could see that these firemen took care of each other.  This behavior was visible on and off the job and is the foundation of what has turned into many life-long friendships.

I’ll have some stories to tell and examples to give, but the Brotherhood will show through in each example.

I was five years old when my parents decided to add on to our house.  As was common practice back in the day, my Dad subcontracted all the work to firemen.  They would make a little money and you’d get a good job at a great price.  That is, if they didn’t do it for materials only! On one occasion, my mom and dad went to run an errand and I was left with a fireman who was one of my dad’s best friends (and still is today).  He was busy painting part of the addition.  The carpet had not been laid so there would be no chance for an accident.  Little did we know, the accident was me.  Long story short, I knocked over a gallon of light blue paint, which quickly spread over the sub floor.  When my parents returned, there was no avoiding the spill.  Dad asked, “What happened?” and the fireman replied, “Shit happens.  I didn’t see the paint and knocked it over.  I tried to clean it up the best I could”.  Dad agreed and asked if he needed to go get more paint.

This fireman took care of me then, as he did for many years.  He rose up through the ranks of the NFD and is now an assistant chief.  He finally told my dad what happened about four years after the incident.  The paint was spilled, it was an accident, and this mentor of mine didn’t want to see me get in trouble.  This of one of many times that Brotherhood was shown to me by a family friend/fireman.  Thanks, Chief Smith.

Unfortunately, I’ve had three of my four grandparents die in the last six years.  All had lived long lives, but it’s still hard to deal with.  The guys I work with were always there.  There were phone calls, beautiful flowers sent to the funeral home, and many brothers that came to visitations on each occasion.

I’ll never forget the death of my Grandpa (the first of the three to go).  All of our family was at visitation and the room was fairly full.  I’ll never forget the feeling I had as my nine co-workers filed into the room.  They brought comfort, peace, love, sympathy, laughter, etc…all the things that encompass this Brotherhood that we are speaking of.  They met my family and stayed until visitation was finished.  We all went out and ate afterward.  The next day was the funeral, which was going to be extremely hard.  It was my shift that day, so I knew my friends wouldn’t be around for comfort.  I had to sing a song with my cousin and I knew it would be hard to complete the task.  Five minutes before we started, the family filed into the auditorium.  At the same time, I heard an old familiar Jake Brake engage outside the church.  As I began to take my seat, the four members of 3 Truck “A” filed in wearing full dress uniforms.  To say they turned everyone’s heads is an understatement.  This event and many others over the years have kept me at NFD Station 3 for close to nine years.  There have been marriages, births, holidays, rafting trips, a few promotions, and many shifts, but the quality of people has remained the same.

I’ve gone to deck building parties, put on shingles after storms, cleaned rental properties, put in hardwood floors, mowed grass, and the list goes on and on.  I’ve been on the receiving end of many things, as well.

The on-duty things matter too: compromising on meal selections or the consideration of folding co-workers clothes when you take them out of the dryer to put yours in; swapping days off, so a friend can go to a kids ballgame or take in a training class; building training props that can be used to sharpen skills; or pulling off attack/supply hoselines and reloading them because their appearance doesn’t meet your shift’s standards.  The life and times you share at the station or on the scene seal your bond with the individuals you work with.  As my best friend says, “You did crime or time together”.

I started tagging along with my dad to various fire events when I was six years old.  I made my first structural fire attack when I was seven.  I began riding fire apparatus during this time as well.  I have never stopped since.  The many runs, training sessions, conversations, etc. have made me the fireman I am today.  These opportunities presented themselves because somebody (in fact, many people) gave a shit.  Taking time to care about me, my family, this profession, its traditions, and the brotherhood of the fire service made the difference…and it’s my duty to give this back.  I was allowed to learn from some of the greatest and put the knowledge I gained to work under their supervision.  It’s a gift that I can never give back, but only hope to repay by passing on to someone else.

I’ve been privileged to sit on several interview panels for hiring of new firefighters. One of my final questions is always “Why do you think you want to be a fireman?” I’ve heard a wide range of answers, but the one that normally shines through is the draw to Brotherhood.  These applicants are fascinated by the thought of a second family, a tight-knit group, camaraderie, and sharing good and bad times with a “Brother”.  The idea of knowing someone has your back through thick or thin is appealing to us all, and few professions even have the possibility for something so special to exist.  If you have the opportunity to be that “Brother”, I hope you take it…as the gift will continue and not die with you.  

A firefighter on my shift in Nashville is dealing with a tough family situation.  His two-year-old daughter has cancer and it is in an advanced stage.  I can only imagine the pain his family has and the times they are facing.  Several brothers have taken off to go “ride” for this Firefighter so he can take care of his family needs.  I only made a few fires with this Firefighter, as 3 Truck is the second due truck in his part of town.  He has always been about business on scene, but is a nice guy as well.  I had a few extra days, took off, and “rode” for him for 24 hours on a Sunday.  The NFD’s newly promoted deputy chief (the top guy in the Fire Suppression Bureau, who works a 40-hour week/Monday-Friday) came in off-duty to take a Saturday 24-hour shift.  The Chief of Department wouldn’t let the new deputy chief ride the back step of the engine, but he was allowed to work as the shift commander.  This added an additional person to the manpower for the shift, allowing someone to cover the needed firefighter slot. Nobody told anyone they had to “ride” or come in, or give up time…they did it because it is the right thing to do, and because brotherhood does still exist in the fire service. I had always been very impressed with our new deputy chief, and he has many years with the NFD, but he really raised the bar with his commitment and “never forget where you came from” attitude to help a “Brother”

There are many more stories I would love to share, but I think you get the point that I’m trying to get across. The tradition of “taking care of our own” has existed for a long time, but could stand to be reinforced.  There will be times that it’s easy to celebrate successes; like a promotion, kid’s graduations, marriage, births, etc. But with the good there comes the bad, and your “brother” will need you. Deaths, sicknesses, divorces, break-ups, and disappointments on and off the job will always be a part of life. There will be projects at home and around the station where help will be needed. Be the guy that they can depend on. Sign up for the station/shift picnic or canoeing trip. The life and times you share during “battle”, at the station, and off-duty build the bond and lets you know who you can believe in when you need them most.

So, when you hear “That Brotherhood bullshit is gone, and won’t be tolerated”….don’t drink the Kool-Aid. You might have to look for it harder than you did back in the day, but the tradition of “Brotherhood” and taking care of our own is alive and well in the fire service. It is up to you to live it, love it, and pass it on.  There are some that will try to bring you down….”for personal reasons”, but the traditions of this craft were here when we came, and will hopefully be here when we’re gone.

This “Brotherhood” we speak of was put in place by many firefighters that came before us, so who are we to let it go by the wayside? Company moral will soar, you’ll form a cohesive team that is good at what they do, you’ll genuinely care for each other, and you’ll find yourself enjoying “The Job” more than ever before. This pride will be contagious, and others will want what you have. It won’t necessarily be easy, but if it’s worth having…it requires effort.

Train hard, remember fallen brothers, stay safe...and don’t let the “Brotherhood” die. The future of the fire service is in your hands. FTM-PTB.

Trey is the President of the Middle TN FOOLS and a Firefighter with Nashville Rescue 12

As a proud member of the fire service for over 20 years, I am often outspoken about the brotherhood and the camaraderie within our ranks.  Usually I only share my feelings locally, but after a long night and a large fire in our city, I feel compelled to share some thoughts with my brothers across this country.

As we progress through our life in the fire service, we experience many different types of firefighters.  All of whom have numerous reasons as to why they decided to enter this profession.  Sometimes we come across some internal MUTTS that act as if they were drafted into the fire service.  They float around for years, below the radar, complaining and simply trying to pull others down.  These are the folks who are our lower 10%.  I say “our” because they still wear the same cross on the uniform as we all do.

This lower 10% always seems to be unable to understand what drives the rest of us.  They lack the passion for the service and are here either for the insurance, schedule, or Lord knows what.  You know the type and can probably insert a few faces here.  These people complain about everything while offering no solution. They are against training, getting along with others, and usually, what the rest of us stand for.

On the other end of this spectrum, we have the upper 10%.  These folks are the polar opposites of the lower 10%.  Their attitudes, abilities, and understanding of who we are and what we do are exceptional.  The upper 10% rarely needs coaching, since these are the coaches; they are self motivated and usually are unstoppable.  These are our leaders, with an immovable positive attitude, who constantly “steer our ship”.  The upper 10% and lower 10% work together, but usually do not get along.  They have completely different agendas, skill sets and core values.  They integrate about as well as oil and water.  Can you insert some faces to this class in your organization?

Now, that leaves us with our middle 80%.  That’s where you will find most firefighters.  All of them entered this service on their love of the job, and their drive and skills fall across the entire spectrum. The lower part of the 80% can sometimes be unmotivated and are often “followers”.  The middle to upper of the 80% bracket is the backbone of our organization and is what make things happen.  This is the group that’s willing to fly to Seaside or Seattle on their own dollar, because it is important.  These are the people who volunteer to be on a committee, or ask to give something back to the organization.  These are the ones whom can usually be called upon and will do almost whatever is asked of them.  These are the ones who put out the fires.

Now, let’s understand that many of us will sometimes move from the 80% to the top 10% and usually after a short period, settle back into the 80% area again.  This is important, because it is where we do our best work.  This is where our comfort zone exists.

Sometimes, some of the middle 80% group will fall into the lower 10%.  This happens because the lower 10% is never satisfied with their current personnel and they are always recruiting.  They are lower leaders and have the ability to bring you down.  Remember, they have gravity working with them, so it’s not hard for them to find you.  You need to watch out for them, because they are always there and are walking among us.

Let’s understand that we all may occasionally dip into the lower 10% area to take a look around, but the lower 10% disease is very contagious, so don’t stay there long.  Once you’re there, leave ASAP before you’re also infected.  If your find yourself sitting around the kitchen table, maybe insulting one of your brothers who just left, then guess what, you’re being recruited by them.  Get out of there fast!

So, how do we avoid being plagued with the lower 10% disease?  Just remember to ask yourself “What good will this do?”  At my station, I recently told my new crew that “complaining hour” is limited to 0600-0700.  That’s it.  If they need to complain during this time, that was fine, as long as we ALL could fix the problem within the shift.  Remember, this is a group effort and all problems and complaints should be approached that way.

Now ask yourself, “Where am I, and where do I want to be?”  If you make a determination that you’re not happy with where you are, then FIX IT.  Look around and determine who around you is in the top 10% and ask for help.  Believe me, this group cannot get too busy.  They live and strive to help others.  Be their student.  Ask them for advice, they are there for you.

Avoid the lower 10%. If you are an upper 10% guy, it is incumbent upon you look around and find someone who may be floating and needs a little direction, it’s your duty. Tell them about the FOOLS.  

YOU may be the one that they have been waiting for to help nudge them in the right direction.  Chances are, there out there right now waiting for you!

So, are you up for the challenge?

Greg is a Captain with the Franklin Fire Department, Station 2 on A shift

 I have been blessed to grow up in and around the fire service. From a very young age I was allowed to see and do things that helped me learn the craft of a Firefighter. I also received the benefit of seeing some real “Firemen” in action. Their love for the job and performance with pride fueled my passion for our line of work since I was a child. I can only hope to make them proud, pass on their knowledge, and hopefully carry the name of a “fireman” by those I respect and admire.

When I say a real “Fireman” I think of several things. Just because someone joins a fire department does not make them a fireman. A certification or “Recruit School” doesn’t make them one either. I learned you are truly not a “fireman” until someone that is one says you are. This means being aggressive in the craft of extinguishing fire… that is from the inside of the structure not just the outside. Almost anyone could fight a fire from outside. It will usually take several fires before this “title” is placed on you, but it is a huge honor that you will carry with pride. There is also a balance required with being this “fireman”. Being smart about firefighting is also a must. Sometimes courage and guts are not enough. Knowledge of Building Construction, Fire Behavior, Strategy and Tactics, Engine Work, Truck Work, etc. are all factors that may decide if you and the brothers return home or get hurt or killed.
 

I’ve written several articles in the past. They are usually some tip, technique, or idea that I’ve learned or been shown by a senior member or picked up on at an incident. This information hopefully helps us work easier, smarter, and safer. This article however will focus on a mindset, or maybe a disease that is one of many things that seems to be chocking out today’s fire service and is a slap in the face to a “fireman”. This may ruffle some feathers or cause controversy, but I need to say my piece. So as I clear my throat let me say if you have a heart history, diabetic problems, pregnant, on medications, or don’t meet the height requirement…….you might want to sit this ride out.
 

I was told about an incident recently by a newer member of the fire service. He has impressed me since joining about 2-1/2 years ago, but I have no problem thinking of him as a “fireman”. He has educated himself, obtained training and certifications, and works extremely hard at “working” incidents. This fire he responded to did not have a good ending. The word from several responders that I have spoken to was that it was a Cluster Fuck. The young “fireman” told many things about poor strategies, half-hearted tactics, and sub-standard decision making. He also spoke of several “sidewalk” firefighters that did not want to work hard, enter a hostile environment, or do the tough things you would expect an employee of a Fire Department to do. He kept coming back to the quote some of them said, “What are we doing inside this house, they are going to tear it down anyway”. I was saddened by their question and I could tell it had taken its toll on the young “fireman”. I tried to give him encouragement and tell him that everyone did not think that way. He had been involved in a similar experience a couple of times last year. Their question “Why do we go in fires” made me think and this is what I came up with:
 

                                       IT’S WHAT “FIREMEN” DO
I’m not talking about going on some kamikaze mission that is going to get someone hurt or killed. That is where the “fireman’s” knowledge, training, experience, etc. make the difference. Going inside also just happens to be the best way to put the fire out, rescue trapped civilians/firefighters, and stop property loss. If there were a better way to do it, we probably would do business that way. It will usually not be easy and you will often perform these acts of firefighting with fear and pain. The unpredictability of firefighting is a constant threat, so it’s the “fireman’s” responsibility to himself, his brother, and those he protects to stay on his game. This will require studies, training, practical skills, evaluations, etc……but will prove invaluable when the shit hits the fan. There are people in the fire service that would call themselves “firemen” that are nowhere close. Those that are involved in the fire service for the days off, benefits, pay, t-shirt, badge, lights on their vehicle, ego, a place to hang out, or whatever are not “firemen”……..they are PIECES OF SHIT!!

If you are a “fireman” you know why we go in fires and I am thankful for brothers like you. If you’re not a “fireman”, at least know your roll and take a look in the f&#king mirror.

Knowing the difference of when to enter and not to enter is also important. This should also be known by the “fireman”, probably through experience. There is nothing more important than insuring that everyone goes home.

1)      LEARNING YOUR LIMITS/CAPABILITIES

I took two new guys into a rockin’ ass 2 story job last winter. Both guys had about one year on the job, but were good workers and would do what ever I said. Once the incident had been brought under control, some of the “sidewalk” firefighters questioned our entry/attack. The house was heavily damaged but we had made a stop and was demolished a few months later. I gave them the following answers:

A)    We saved belongings

B)    New members gained experience while supervised

C)    New members observed equipment capabilities/limits

A week after the fire I saw a family member of those involved in the incident. He thanked me for our response and told me of some valuable belongings that had been salvaged. These were items that were irreplaceable and this gave me a good feeling.

The young guys got to make an interior attack in a hostile environment. This will give them something to put in their “file” that can be used in the future. They may see something that appears similar and come back to this incident, duplicate the actions and have similar success. They may also file away something that didn’t work and know to do something different the next time this situation come up. Gaining experience while being safe is important for our up and coming members. The “veterans” will be gone one day and these “new members” will be the decision makers. Prepare them while you can.

Knowledge in the capabilities and limits of your equipment can also be gained. Knowing an 1-3/4 line can put out a certain amount of fire as compared to a 2-1/2 for example. Seeing things like this and so many other fireground operations at work gives members a working knowledge of certain equipment. Gaining knowledge through training is extremely important, but on the job experience factors in greatly as well.

If there is not a “fireman” there to pass these skills on, the skill will be lost altogether. If this current practice continues the firefighters of the future will be “firefighters on paper” but will only be truly qualified to go to nuisance fires, wrecks, and bull shit medic runs.

2)      PUBLIC CONFIDENCE AND SUPPORT
 
When you got hired, joined, took an oath, got voted in, or what ever process there was for you to join the fire department you were saddled with a few responsibilities/expectations. I would say it’s safe to assume that your fellow firefighters, the department, your family, and the citizens you protect expect you to “Go into a Burning Building”. That is something that will be expected of you at times. If we did not go into house, building, apartment fires…..then why do we even go? Let’s take the money that is used to fund the Fire Department, pay salaries, purchase firefighting tools, order apparatus, etc. and give it to the people that have suffered the loss. It would probably benefit the family more than having a nickel dick FD show up and have the same end result……burnt up shit. It would not take many incidents like that for me to not support a raise in taxes, give donations, pay dues, or do what ever your government/agency does to support the Fire Department. Results matter.

I have heard members in the past say “It’s just a piece of shit trailer” or “They are going to tear it down anyway”. I can see your thought, but it’s not for you to decide. You were called to put out someone’s fire, not judge their property or belongings. At my house, my possessions mean more to me than the dwelling itself. There are things like weddings photos, things passed down from generations, important documents, gifts/photos with loved ones that have passed away, etc. that I want to keep for my entire life. I don’t expect you to get hurt or killed over it, but I do expect an aggressive effort.

When Public confidence dies, support goes with it. If you can’t do what is expected of you the political, monetary, and community backing will be questionable at best. Moral could suffer, the only membership interest will be more “sidewalk” firefighters that are seeking a club to join, and no one will expect anything good from you organization. You will surprise them every now and then, but the reality that your agency is a tired, half ass approach at a fire department will shine through for the public to see.

The fact is that there are some in this profession that will go into fires today, tomorrow, and for the rest of  their careers. They were taught to do this job by “firemen” and they desire to be called “firemen” by these mentors, teachers, and colleagues. These brothers don’t do it to be heroes or considered macho, but for the love of the job, the desire to help someone in need, and to do right by the other “firemen”.

I think of the “sidewalk” firefighters sometimes and wonder what happened to them. Some joined with no intention of going into a fire in the first place. They were here for some personal gain and they are Piece of Shit LOADS. Some might have had an experience that scared them and made them feel unsafe inside. Some have never had proper leadership to show them the way to perform “the job” and have been left to find their own way. Some lack training and just don’t know what to do. Most lack experience, which is something that most “firemen” I know rely on heavily. Some of these members can be helped, but it will not be easy. It will take a commitment from the student and the teacher to find success.

I have thought myself “What makes a “fireman” want to go into a burning building?” I don’t think it is something that can be taught to you. I’ve seen Career and Volunteer members go through days, weeks, and months of training and not be worth a pint of piss at a working incident. They may be a “nice guy” but that’s not going to do a brother firefighter or the citizen much good in a time of need. The desire enter this environment is in you….it is a decision you make yourself. No one can do it for you. Some do it for different reasons (It’s what I’m paid for, because I trust and respect the brothers I work with, etc.), but those that do it and do it well have something else. The desire is in their heart and in their soul. It is something that can’t be taught…..it comes from within.

As I finish this rant I must say I love this profession. It is still the greatest job in the world even though the bean counters seem to find new and improved ways to give us a shit sandwich. The only thing I love more than the profession itself is the “firemen” that perform it. The only problem with this passion is the liabilities to your soul that suffer. You see these “firemen” passed over for promotion, wronged by Administrative MUTTS that don’t know shit about the job, hurt buy a decision made by some dumb ass that should have never gotten hired or promoted. When these things happen it hurts all “firemen”, because you are truly a brotherhood inside of the profession. Their wounds are your wounds and you suffer along with them. The scars of experience that “firemen” carry together seals the bond that is like nothing else.

We need more “firemen”, members to continue the proud heritage of the fire service. That is totally up to you. The present and the future are in your hands as you grow and  pass things on to others. Will you carry the reputation of a “fireman” or just be another employee or badge number?

“Firemen” will continue to go into burning buildings until progressive things like fire sprinklers, life safety codes, etc. are required and raise our quality of life. Until then, the faith of the citizens and the passion for this profession will rely on the guidance of the good Lord and the centuries old performance of “firemen” that are called “firemen” by “firemen”.                   

Stay safe.            
Trey Nelms                                                                                                       
Firefighter, Nashville Rescue 12