Read firefighter training articles from the February 2025 issue of Fire Engineering, which focuses on fire apparatus.
Above: Wichita (KS) firefighters operate at a well-involved private dwelling. First-arriving companies reported a detached garage heavily involved, with extension into the first-floor half-story and attic/knee walls of the dwelling. Despite the heavy snow, companies strategically placed multiple hoselines inside and opened the roof. The winter months add extra hazards in the form of treacherous road conditions for responding units; freezing temperatures, creating ice and slip hazards; the possibility of frozen, leaky hydrants; and extra physical stress on the firefighters, creating the need for additional staffing and rehab considerations. It is important to have plans in place to overcome the additional adversities of winter weather well before you receive the alarm. Photo by Kelly Ross.
Features
Stabilizers: The Foundation of the Truck
If you understand your truck and all its components—even the stabilizers—you will be more confident in truck operations. NICK WILBUR
Underground Manhole and Transformer Emergencies
These incidents can escalate from routine to significant events if you don’t maintain situational awareness. STEPHEN MARSAR
Apparatus Operator: The Force Multiplier on the Exterior
Do not confine your drivers to driving and pumping. Learn how to raise your expectations of their duties to fully engage all available fireground resources. BRIAN S. GETTEMEIER
Maximizing Fire Control and Rescue Operations with Minimal Staffing
When one California department arrives at a fire with a limited force, personnel must focus on what they can accomplish safely, effectively, and efficiently. Using tools such as RECEO is a favorable starting point, as the primary goal is life and safety, followed by limiting the fire’s growth. JASON BARKER
Driver Training for Winter Conditions
The Anchorage (AK) Fire Department shares details of its driver training program specifically developed for winter driving conditions. CHRIS DALY
Quint Considerations at Single-Family Dwelling Fires
While many departments see a quint’s versatility as an advantage, its effectiveness depends on proper preparation through training and preplanning. ROB FISHER
The Need for Speed: Crash Investigations
Our job is to arrive safely at a scene and apply lifesaving rescue skills. Crashing the apparatus en route fails to accomplish this goal. JOHN K. MURPHY
Applying LCES to Roadway Incidents
Considering the simplistic concept, ease of use, and applicability, applying LCES to roadway incidents can improve responder safety and prevent injuries and deaths. WALTER LEWIS
DEPARTMENTS
EDITOR’S OPINION: I Didn’t Get the Memo
TRAINING NOTEBOOK: Rescue Operations: Training for Aggressive Search
VOLUNTEERS CORNER: Volunteer Command Post Operations: Coordinating the Fireground
WHAT WE LEARNED: The Lullwater Incident: Drowning Beneath the Rubble
The Lullwater Incident: Managing the Mayday
ENERGY HAZARDS: Rapid Shutdown: The Photovoltaic Safety Feature You’ve Never Heard Of
