We seem to do a lot of things at times out of common practice and repetition, you know; “We’ve always done it that way….” syndrome. There’s a resonating theme that is making its way around the fire service dealing with going to a defensive tactical posture at vacant or unoccupied structure fires. This command posture […]

Fire in the United States Fire in the United States covers the 5-year period from 2003 to 2007 The report focuses on the national fire problem and provides an overview of fires and losses in buildings, vehicles and other mobile properties, and other properties. The report also examines fire and fire loss trends, fire casualties […]

NIOSH issues Report on: Leading Recommendations for Preventing Fire Fighter Fatalities, 1998–2005 The United States currently depends on approximately 1.1 million fire fighters to protect its citizens and property from losses caused by fire. Each year in the United States, approximately 100 fire fighters die in the line of duty. Sudden cardiac death is the […]

How do you think these elements fit into the Big Picture during combat fire suppression operations at working structure fire? What’s your experience gauge telling you as it related to these elements? As a Company Officer it is imperative that you maintain a balanced operational safety perspective to ensure the safety and well being of […]

Many of us may have had someone in our career that provided influence, guidance and offered reinforcement, feedback or constructive criticism when needed. You know; that chief or company officer, who seemed to take you under thier wing and watchful eye in the street or at the least, spoke to you in the back of […]

For many, the New Year has brought forth a new set of challenges as some of you transition from the firefighter rank to that of a Company Officer. To others, a promotion has added a bar; bugle or axe to your collar and with it increased duties and responsibilities. Along with the new title or […]

Company and Command Officers are crucial to the mission critical effectiveness and safety of company level operations, crew integrity and incident command management and successful mitigation. What are the key elements that set apart those that can be considered “average” officers from those that are exceptional? What key knowledge, skills, abilities and traits do they […]

Leadership; It certainly isn’t about the number of bars or collar brass horns you have on your collar, the color of your helmet, or the “title” you have. Although there are many who would argue that point and feel that they are THE Leader specificially because they DO have the title, rank and brass. Some […]

Everyone has idealisms, dreams, goals, aspirations, ideas and purpose. Everything is a Possibility, IF you strive to persevere and keep at it. Whatever the cause, need or reasons; regardless of the roadblocks, disappointment, disenchantment, frustration or regret-Dream it Anyways, Do it Anyways… You can chase a dream that seems so out of reach, and you […]

No this isn’t about Springsteen…. The Company Officer fulfills a mission critical role within the fire service that directly affects personnel and public safety and community accord. The title carries with it the opportunity to ride the “front seat” and be in charge of a company responsible for addressing incident operations and service demands dictated […]