Host David Rhodes speaks with Billy Goldfeder and Frank Leeb, the authors of the acclaimed book 30 Fires You Must Know. They talk about the critical lessons learned from historic fire incidents. They also offer firsthand accounts that have shaped the modern fire service. The conversation includes a discussion of why understanding past events is vital for preventing future tragedies and enhancing firefighter safety. With each chapter featuring tactical insights, historical context, and practical training drills, the book serves as both a reference and teaching tool for fire departments. The authors discuss the emotional impacts of these fires and share how they chose the incidents they included. They reflect on their personal connections and the importance of remembering those who served.
During the discussion, they address several important topics, including the following:
1. LEARNING FROM HISTORY: THE IMPORTANCE OF FIRE HISTORY EDUCATION
One of the primary messages in this episode is the critical need for firefighters to engage with their history. Both Goldfeder and Leeb emphasize that many in the fire service lack a deep understanding of historical incidents, which can lead to repeated mistakes and unnecessary tragedies. They argue against the trend of “historical illiteracy” in the profession, noting that lessons learned from incidents like the Hackensack Ford Fire and the New York Telephone Fire have resulted in life-saving changes in protocols and behavior.
Goldfeder states, “There’s a reason why less than 100 firefighters a year die in the line of duty,” attributing this to the lessons learned from previous generations. The episode illustrates that each chapter in the book serves as a mini history lesson, coupled with tactical insights and personal reflections from those involved. These personal accounts are invaluable for modern firefighters, enabling them to draw parallels with their own experiences and preparing them for the challenges they face on the front lines today.
2. TACTICAL INSIGHTS AND THE ART OF DRILL PLANNING
30 Fires You Must Know is not merely a collection of narratives. Rather, it serves as a training manual. Each chapter presents a unique tactical insight derived from firsthand accounts and includes a remembrance training drill. This format allows firefighters and officers to digest complex incidents in a structured manner, enabling them to adapt these teachings into their own operational protocols.
Leeb emphasizes this point by stating the book should be used as a resource for drills, allowing crews to engage in meaningful discussions on risk management and tactical approaches predicated on actual events. The availability of associated training resources on the book’s companion website (30fires.com) makes this process even more accessible. Firefighters can employ these lessons to develop their skill sets and bolster situational awareness, ultimately leading to safer operations and improved outcomes during emergencies.
3. THE EMOTIONAL TOLL AND CALL TO ACTION FOR FIREFIGHTER HEALTH
A poignant thread woven throughout the discussion is the emotional weight carried by firefighters who are impacted by line-of-duty deaths and significant incidents. Both Goldfeder and Leeb share their personal connections to the tragedies described in the book, portraying the emotional reality of the fire service.
The authors highlight the importance of supporting mental health through programs like the Firefighter Cancer Support Network and the First Responder Center for Excellence, organizations they are proud to support through the proceeds from their book. These initiatives aim to address the growing health crisis within the fire service, particularly issues related to cancer and mental health exacerbated by the job’s emotional toll.
Leeb articulates the need to foster a culture of training, awareness, and mutual support to prevent such occurrences. This collective responsibility extends beyond the individual and challenges the fire service to actively prioritize wellness and mental health initiatives.
