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How to organize your pocket toolbox for best performance when a tool is required and how to protect your pocket from wearing out is what I am about to share. Recently turnout gear manufacturers have provided options to fire departments when specing out gear to better organize and...

Carrying tools in our pockets is commonplace and essential for every firefighter. But the problem is that we could essentially carry a whole toolbox in our pocket and this will cause problems for us. One issue with having too many tools in our pockets is that it will cut down on...

When operating at a structure fire, there are several tasks that must be accomplished to make the building behave. The truck company is responsible for the following priority tasks: forcible entry, search, ventilation, and fire containment. Some of these tasks are typically...

Speed is of the essence when it comes to putting on our turnout gear. Putting our turnout gear on properly so it protects us from the potential of burns, cuts, and scrapes is essential. Thus, the key is to don our gear properly with speed. The speed with which we don our gear all...

Why Tape Our Tools? Because when our gloves are soaking wet and we’re using our hook trying to hook a ceiling or wall our hands slide all over the shaft of the hook or other tool.   This is frustrating and inefficient. Here’s how to fix that: Put a grip on your tools...

Every firefighter needs to know what is evolving around us so we can make proper decisions to positively influence the outcome of any situation. Some say that situational awareness is only for the fire ground or the incident scene. I believe situational awareness begins when we...

The halligan is one of the most utilized pieces of equipment in the fire service. Since its creation, the halligan has shown itself to be the “Go To” tool. There are 4 simple modifications that will enhance your halligan. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes...

Technology today has its eyes on everyone and everything, and it can be sent around the world in an instant, and there is nearly no stopping it. I tell my guys that as soon as the bay doors open someone’s watching. Not only are they watching, but our words and actions are being...

How many clowns can you fit into a car? The answer is as many that will fit. This is a growing trend when it comes to residential housing.   Today we are seeing more single and two family houses containing up 5 or 6 families. What is the cause? Tough economic times have forced...

Ever roll up to a vehicle fire and see crews fumbling around with trying to open the hood by cutting the inverted “V” at the hood latch?  Try this tip at the next engine compartment fire you’re working. Before breaking out the saw try the hood release in the interior of the car...