There’s a better chance for a successful outcome if the input of participants is not only allowed, but encouraged.
That’s been Chief Dennis Rubin’s philosophy for decades; and next month he and other fire service veterans will be sharing that concept in Michigan.
The first annual Crew Resource Management National Symposium is set for March 30-31 in Novi, Mich.
“We’re hoping we get a good turnout,” said Rich Marinucci, president of Regional Alliance for Firefighter Training (RAFT).
He added that his organization is proud to bring the high caliber instructors to the area. “This is a great opportunity for firefighters here to be exposed to top level training…”
Rubin, author and longtime Firehouse contributor, has been a huge proponent of CRM since hearing about it at a conference involving pilots involved in the aircraft crash in Sioux City, Iowa.
“The whole scenario intrigued me,” he said in an interview.
With serious engine problems crippling the DC-10, Al Haynes, the pilot called upon a flight instructor he knew was a passenger, to lend a hand.
“Haynes, his first officer, the flight engineer and the instructor figured out a plan to land that plane,” he said, adding that all participated in the decision-making.
When the jet crash-landed in Sioux City, 112 souls aboard were killed. But, what Rubin says is unbelievable is that 185 survived.
He believes without CRM involved, the outcome would have been different.
“Good leaders have to be good listeners,” he said, adding that they have to not only embrace but promote teamwork.
Fire officers also must be able to communicate effectively as they lead and delegate various tasks. Keen situational awareness is essential, and any member of the team should feel comfortable about speaking up.
“You can apply CRM to every phase of public safety,” he added.
The former D.C. Fire/EMS Chief who now heads the fire department in De Pere, Wisc., said he is excited about participating the forum in Michigan.
“This is a terrific opportunity for firefighters to learn,” he said, adding that it won’t be easy getting all to feel comfortable about speaking up when they see something that doesn’t sit well.
Rubin noted it’s impossible to determine how many injuries and deaths have been prevented because someone spoke up.
NFFF Executive Director Ron Siarnicki said he is pleased the training is being conducted as it supports the 16 Life Safety Initiatives.
"It's about empowering people to stop unsafe practices," he said. "That's what we need."
Siarnicki added that he hopes company officers will take advantage of the training as well. "They are the ones who are responsible for critical, life-saving decisions. They are the ones who make sure PPE is being worn, seat belts are buckled and SCBA is staying on."
The NFFF, Firehouse and VFIS are among the supporters of the CRM symposium.
