Riding with Captain Dave | Firehouse

Riding with Captain Dave

In years past, Chicago firefighters used kerosene-soaked rags to melt ice inside frozen fire hydrants.

Safety & Health

Fornell: Don't Let the Cold Weather Get You

Dave Fornell reminds firefighters about the necessary extras during cold weather fire and rescue operations.

Jan. 9, 2015

A Detroit firefighter looks at the damaged windshield of Squad 3. Had the brick fallen a second later, the officer may have been seriously injured.

Fornell: A Brick to the Head in Detroit

Oct. 17, 2014

Apparatus, especially engines, arriving on the scene of multiple alarms, should consider backing to better position themselves if they have to go to work. In this instance, since the engine in the foreground did not lay a supply line, it is in a relatively useless position if they are ordered to provide additional lines without a lot of additional maneuvering. The engine right behind it has backed in, and will be able to quickly stretch lines if needed.

Fornell: Where Did You Park the Rig?

Sept. 3, 2014

It is easy to identify the officer in this photo. He is above the engine crew to better keep an eye on the situation and is not only looking out for the safety of his crew, and that of the truck company opening the door, but moving them forward to attack the fire as well.

Hoselines & Water Appliances

Fornell: Passing on the Craft of Firefighting

May 9, 2014

A frustrated resident waiting for companies to arrive, watches as three vacant houses burn on the East Side.

Safety & Health

Fornell: It Rained, They Burned - Devil's Night 2013

Nov. 5, 2013

Fornell

Fornell: The Firefighting Blitz Attack

Aug. 5, 2013

A Detroit firefighter works a stream from 1-1/2-inch hoseline at a dwelling fire.

Is There Anything Wrong With 1 1/2-inch Hose?

April 6, 2013

Chicago Engine 26 connected to a hydrant with its 6-inch hard suction, which reduces friction loss and provides an unobstructed waterway for maximum flow.

Fornell: Hydrant Hook-ups, Chicago Style

Jan. 15, 2013

Stand on a street any where in Detroit and you would be hard put to not find a vacant building

Even Devils' Night Has Fallen On Hard Times

Nov. 6, 2012

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