David DeStefano discusses a simple acronym to help firefighters convey essential fireground information to incident command during structural firefighting operations.
Properly placing the correct size hoseline is generally the most effective task the first-in engine company can complete to save firefighter and civilian lives at a fire, David Destefano writes.
To ensure a transfer of information to the next generation of firefighters, your department should make an organized effort to create an internal system of passing on fire service knowledge, David DeStefano writes.
The first-in engine company stretching the initial attack line on an offensive fire attack has one chance that can make or break the success of the operation. David DeStefano discusses the quick decisions that firefighters must make on the initial attack, such as those about hoseline selection and building access.
Forcible entry, ventilation, search and rescue, and salvage and overhaul are traditional truck company functions that must be performed at every fire. Engine company members can benefit from understanding truck company functions, writes David DeStefano.
So-called big box stores are a common sight in cities and towns of all sizes across the nation. David Destefano discusses tactical considerations that can help keep firefighters safe in the big box environment.
Operating and advancing a big line as part of an interior attack is always an arduous task, but firefighters will benefit from the increased reach, penetration, and knockdown power of the larger hose. The key is identifying proper applications through size-up and matching your resources to the task, David DeStefano writes.
Most fire departments have a policy to ensure that a backup line is stretched to support the first attack line for all fires. David DeStefano addresses issues affecting backup line deployment.
Firefighters from several communities fought a large fire that ravaged a former mill that is being coverted into apartments in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.
The operator of the first-in engine company has one of the most important duties on the fireground, however there are several additional duties the operator can handle after the lines are charged. David DeStefano discusses areas operators can potentially address after their primary duties are fulfilled.