Join us in Nashville for Firehouse Expo, Oct. 18-22.
This year's conference provides a number of training and networking opportunities for those interested in learning more strategy and tactics, command and modern day hazards. Following is a comprehensive list sessions for apparatus operators.
Hands-on Session
This four-hour session includes hands-on training and is only available Wednesday, Oct. 19.
First-Due Positioning and Operation: Transitioning from Driver to Operator
Mike Wilbur, President, Emergency Vehicle Response
Students will enhance skills by getting hands-on practice operating and positioning engine and aerial apparatus. Students will learn to maximize scrub area on different types of aerial devices and maximize engine company effectiveness in their response area. Any firefighter can benefit from this class to enhance knowledge and skills.
Conference sessions
These 90-minute sessions take place Oct. 20-22.
This Did Not Have to Happen!
Marc Bashoor, Fire Chief, Prince George's County Fire/EMS
Fire departments experience close calls on a regular basis, but one of their biggest challenges is how to recover and learn from them. This class will use chilling audio/video to examine real-life close calls, and will share examples of how several departments have made a difference after an investigation.
Engine Company Operations: "Gallons Per Second"
Battalion Chief, Escambia County (FL) Fire Rescue
This class will discuss exceeding fire flow needs while managing water during initial hoseline advancement in an interior attack, and why it’s necessary to think in terms of gallons per second at this time. This class is especially relevant for engine companies that commonly engage with the booster tank and deploy suburban fire tactics.
First-Due Concerns: Strip Mall Fires
John Lewis, Lieutenant (ret.), Passaic (NJ) FD
To enhance our ability to safely and effectively operate at fires within strip malls, this program will take an in-depth look at the fire problems associated with these structures and offer some useful information on size up, safety, pre-planning and fire attack methods.
In the Eye of the Storm: Benefits of Command from the Car
John B. Tippett, Jr., Deputy Chief, Charleston (SC) FD
The Charleston (SC) Fire Department underwent tremendous change after 2007. One function that received extensive attention was their fireground command system. This presentation will walk attendees through the introduction, implementation, adoption and benefits realized from a concept that changed the way the department handles the function of command.
Protecting Firefighter's Lives Along the Double-Yellow Line
Jack Sullivan, Director of Training, Emergency Responder Safety Institute
Since Nov. 9, 2015, eight firefighters and/or EMTs have been struck and killed by vehicles while working near moving traffic. This class will review strategies and tactics for fire department and EMS
responses to roadway incidents, and will outline proactive measures your agency can take to prevent struck-by-vehicle LODDs and injuries.
Second-Due Truck Responsibilities
Tom Rogan, Captain, Rochester (NY) FD
At the scene of a reported/confirmed fire, there may only be one truck company—or none at all. Regardless, the functions associated with truck work still need to be done. This presentation will help the
officer prioritize primary functions of a truck company: ladders, overhaul, ventilation, entry, rescue, search and utilities (LOVERSU).
Getting the Equipment and Cutting the Cost
Bryan Jones, District Chief, Nashville Fire Dept.
Creating specifications to ensure your department receives the equipment and supplies it needs is an art form. This track will discuss the tricks of the trade to developing effective specs. We will also
highlight contracts that provide competitive pricing on a daily basis, all within legal constraints.
The Engine Driver/Operator: Doing More with Less
Stephen Truesdell, Firefighter/EMT-Paramedic, Annapolis Fire Department
This course will examine how to maximize the potential of the engine driver/operator (ED/O) in order to increase operational effectiveness and safety. We will look at the expansive roles the ED/O can play by
discussing their local knowledge of community buildings and occupancies, local geography and water supplies, apparatus positioning and much more.
Developing an Aerial Attitude - Aerial Operations on the Fireground
Thomas Hancock, Captain, Cobb Fire Dept.
This class will discuss the attitude needed for aerial operations, as well as the importance of having an aerial strategy. We’ll compare the operations of different aerials, and will discuss using a bucket
vs. a stick for different aerial operations. We’ll also discuss using aerials for fire attack, window access and roof access.
Click here to see the current list of companies who will be exhibiting at Firehouse Expo.
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