“The Back-Up Firefighter: The Most Valuable Unsung Hero"

Instructor: Matt Stansbury (Frederick County Fire/Rescue- Maryland)

Class Description: This class will provide the students the opportunity to learn or review some of the skills and techniques that are required of the back-up firefighter and an understanding of how they can be the most-valuable unsung hero of the Engine Company on the fireground. Additionally, this class will discuss the versatility needed by other members of the Engine Company to ensure the Mission is completed.

“The Engine Boss: 5 Years Of My F#%k Up's: A Journey In Self Study Leading The 1st Line"

Instructor: Dave Quick (City of Manchester- New Hampshire)

Class Description: At some point, every Engine Co. Officer will be responsible for leading the initial hand line, however, very few are given the foundational training needed to complete this task prior to being promoted. The transition from nozzle and/or back-up firefighter to officer on the line is huge, and requires a completely different mindset. This program is designed to lay a foundation for aspiring and newly promoted engine company officers to be better prepared to lead and supervise the initial attack line, and is based on the instructor’s own fire ground successes and, more importantly his failures. It examines the roles and responsibilities of the Engine Co. Officer as the supervisor, from responding thru water on the fire, the transmissions required by command and other companies operating on the fire ground and will discuss engine company emergencies from the perspective of the officer. It is NOT an Engine Co. strategy and tactics class

“Long Lines For The Win"

Instructor: Daniel "Chunk" Nelms (Nashville FD- Tennessee)

Class Description: Time and time again we see fire companies who are stretching short, and it’s inexcusable. The primary reason we are stretching short, is that crosslays have taken over the American fire service. In this class, we will discuss multiple ways to set-up long lines that will work for you regardless of your manpower. We will take a long look at bulk beds, preconnected long lines, and other options. The uses of these lines are paramount in today’s fire service. We will discuss attack packages and estimating the stretch. We will also look at alternate stretches, and decision making for fires in private and multi-family dwellings, as well as those out of the ordinary stretches.

“Side Charlie Engine Operations"

Instructor: Brandon Chapman (Pittsburgh- Pennsylvania)

Class Description: Often, the most underappreciated and underutilized tactic on the fireground is an Engine Company operating on the Charlie side. The company assigned to the rear has the ability to secure a secondary water supply and stretch additional attack lines that do not interfere with the primary attack lines. Being assigned to the engine company in the rear is a significant responsibility because you often have to be creative in accomplishing these tasks. Side Charlie Engine Operations is designed to cover all aspects of operating in the rear of a structure. Participants will learn how to integrate this concept into current Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs) and build their Engine Company both operationally and culturally to fulfill the role of the Side Charlie Engine Company. Various topics, including water supply considerations, where, when, and how to place attack lines, and tactical considerations

“Ladders For Two (2)”

Instructor: Mike Torres (Black Forest Fire Dept.- Colorado)

Class Description: This course focused on enhancing tactical skills related to fireground operations, specifically in the context of ladder tactics and decision-making under pressure. Strengthening these skills is crucial for firefighters to operate safely and effectively in various emergency situations.

Here are some key points related to the objectives:

1. Strengthening street-smart safe tactics: This likely involves emphasizing the importance of situational awareness, understanding the environment, and making sound decisions to ensure the safety of both firefighters and potential victims.

2. Building confidence in ladder tactics: Ladders are essential tools in firefighting for accessing and egressing buildings, performing rescues, and ventilation. Building confidence in using ladders effectively and efficiently is vital for successful fireground operations.

3. Quick and effective decision-making: Firefighters often need to make rapid decisions under high-stress conditions. Training to improve decision-making skills can help responders assess situations quickly and choose the best course of action.

4. Executing decisions: It's one thing to make a decision, but executing it effectively is equally important. Training responders on proper execution techniques ensures that decisions translate into actions that help mitigate the emergency effectively.

5. Creating operators on the Fireground: This likely involves training firefighters to become proficient in various firefighting tasks and operations, including ladder placement.

6. Minimum manning tactics for throwing ladders: With limited manpower available on the scene, it's crucial to train firefighters on how to efficiently use resources to throw ladders and perform necessary tasks with minimal manpower.

By focusing on these objectives, the course aims to equip firefighters with the skills and confidence needed to handle fireground operations effectively, even in challenging situations. It's essential for firefighters to continuously train and hone their skills to ensure they can respond to emergencies efficiently and safely.

“Through The Lock: Street Smart Entry Tactics For 1st Due Companies"

Instructor: Adam Hayward (Adams County Fire/Rescue- Colorado)

Class Description: “Through The Lock: Street Smart Entry for First-Due Companies” explores various time-tested techniques for making entry on both residential and commercial properties in either a non-destructive or less-destructive manner than traditional irons-based entry techniques. We discuss the anatomy and weaknesses of a wide array of locks, assorted TTL tools from the simple screwdriver to the specialized JV Tool, how to build out and train on TTL kits for your department on a budget, attack options for locking knobs, deadbolts, panic bars, mortise locks, rim locks, padlocks, hotel door guards, and more. Several working lock props are incorporated in the class for students to visualize how various locks operate and how they can be defeated with the right tools. This class delivers relevant content and training that is applicable to all types of fire departments around the country whether rural or urban, volunteer or career; everyone from the brand-new recruit to the seasoned veteran will walk away with a better understanding of how locks work and how to defeat them on emergency scenes.

“The Empowered Aerial Operator: Mastering Truck Operations and Specifications”

Instructor: Nick Wilbur (Arlington County Fire/Rescue.- Virginia)

Class Description: Do you want to gain a comprehensive understanding of ladder trucks’ abilities and learn how to optimize their positioning on the fire ground? This must-take course will leave you with valuable knowledge to maximize the use of your aerial device and make informed decisions for future specifications. First, students will examine the specification process. Discover what to ask for in a ladder truck and how to influence decision-makers. This insight into aerial operations will be further clarified by a careful look at vehicles’ specifications and operator's manuals. Attendees will then put their understanding to the test through dozens of interactive scenarios focused on practical skills and aerial and tower ladder positioning. Topics covered include vehicle operation, safety systems, new technology, and options that impact vehicle abilities.

“Rescue Readiness”

Instructor: Jason Rivera (New Haven Fire Department- Connecticut)

Class Description: Are you ready to perform one of the most dangerous tasks on the fireground? Conducting a primary search without the protection of a hose line can put members in a precarious position, especially if they are not trained and mentally prepared for the challenges they may face.

This two-hour class covers many of the aspects of conducting the primary search that should be considered prior to operating in a hostile environment.

Initially, we will discuss the mental aspects and the requisite knowledge and experience members should have before being placed in this position. Then we will delve into specific techniques and methods to properly conduct a search for civilians. Different options are discussed, focusing on the benefits and drawbacks to each.

Lastly, we will get into what is by far the most dangerous and extreme situation any of us may face: rescuing a downed firefighter. We will look at this, not from the standpoint of a rapid intervention team, but from an operational company in the vicinity of the firefighter emergency when the mayday is transmitted. These individuals will be the first ones to have hands on our downed brother or sister. We will discuss packaging, equipment, and movement options. The focus is to keep things as simple as possible, while taking advantage of a few key pieces of equipment that will assist us in our mission.

This lecture is both motivational as well as operationally sound, based on the instructor’s years of working on companies that perform a primary search.

“Protest Preparedness- Defeating Demonstration Devices"

Instructor: AB Turenne (South Fire District- Connecticut)

Class Description: With today’s political climate continuously escalating from matters both domestic and foreign, incidents of protest (demonstrations) and civil unrest (riots) are becoming more prevalent in both rural and suburban geographical areas of the United States.

These occurrences pose a significant risk of depleting our resources as First Responders and it is imperative that we continue to educate ourselves from the past experiences of others to better prepare our Officers and Firefighters for future responses.

Recently, the South Fire District responded to a demonstration that took place on the roadway concourse of Aircraft Road in Middletown, CT which leads to the entrance point for Pratt & Whitney.

Pratt & Whitney is an American aerospace manufacturer with global service operations. The state of the art aircraft engines produced by Pratt & Whitney are extensively used in both civil aviation and military aviation.

On the morning of Monday 4.15.2024, approximately fifty (50) members from the Pro-Palestinian A15 Action group began a protest on Aircraft Road which utilized a common maneuver referred to as a “sleeping dragon” that impedes access and egress of vehicle traffic and personnel to and from the desired location in an attempt to disrupt production, profit, etc.

With this lecture, AB Turenne (Captain of Training and Safety) with the South Fire District will deliver a brief presentation outlining the events that unfolded on the morning of April 15, 2024 and how the on-scene personnel mitigated the situation at hand in a timely manner while ensuring the that safety and well-being of all participating protesters remained paramount.

The information discussed in this brief training presentation can be used as a foundation to begin the process of preparing your respective department for an upcoming event.

“The Art of The Company Chauffeurs ”

Instructor: Brian Edwards (Fairfax County Fire/Rescue- Virginia)

Class Description: Engineer, Driver, Technician, Chauffer, Wheelman. Call it what you want, but we can all agree that the driver operator must be someone who does more than just drive from the fire house to the call. During this interactive lecture we will discuss some of the following questions and topics.

-The “why”, why we need to be the best we can be as drivers

-Front seat communications

-What are some of the responsibilities of the Driver/Operator? Ethical and legal

-What are some challenges we may face?

-Human performance related to the driver/operator

-How do we overcome these challenges?

-Do you really know your rig and how things work?

-Mechanical challenges

-Positioning vs Parking

- “Lone wolf” tactics. Can you do more than just stare at the pump panel?

-Steering Wheel Holder vs Driver Operator

This will be geared to those who are currently Driver Operators within their departments or those who aspire to be. This will be taught by a current engine company driver working for a larger metropolitan fire department within the DC capital Region who teaches driver operator classes within the area, both career and volunteer. This class will dive into some of the mechanical aspects of the rigs and things to look for to prevent any mechanical break downs or out of service time. We will discuss things that could go wrong on the fire ground and how to overcome these problems in a very interactive environment. The goal is for the drivers in the room to bounce ideas off each other and to be able to have an open discussion.

“Tactical Considerations Of Midrise Residential Firefighting”

Instructor: Christopher Hallock (Rockville Vol. Fire Department- Maryland)

Class Description: This session will introduce common contemporary mid-rise residential building techniques, such as the infamous “podium” buildings and “doughnut” construction, from the perspective of building, fire, and life safety codes. While seemingly endless numbers of these types of buildings are being constructed and motivated by housing demands in growing metropolitan areas, the firefighting challenges associated with these types of buildings are well known but not well understood. Many jurisdictions with more and more of these buildings being constructed are not leveraging knowledge of how these buildings are built to assist with efficient firefighting operations. In some cases, the provisions of the building, fire, and life safety codes that ultimately permit these building techniques can also assist firefighters in overcoming the many challenges associated with them. Attendees will learn about common contemporary mid-rise residential building techniques to gain insight into the nuances associated with building arrangements, separations, access, and fire service features available for firefighters in these unique structures. While many required features of these buildings are in place to protect residents and assist firefighters, these features are only useful if consciously understood and utilized. Critical considerations of fire protection and life safety systems will be reviewed in the context of large mid-rise residential buildings. Attendees will have opportunities to discuss their ideas and thoughts regarding efficient firefighting strategies in mid-rise residential buildings.

“Not Your Garden Variety”

Instructor: Kevin Manhardt (Horry County Fire/Rescue- South Carolina)

Class Description: This course will highlight the multitude of response duties that the SOC company may be tasked with, both on the fireground and the rescue alarm. It will highlight the need for SOC firefighters to be well versed in a multitude of operations as often times they are called on by the incident commander to be the “Ace in the Hole” on solve the unthinkable. Students will gain practical knowledge in the areas of outside truck work, firefighter rescue operations, vehicle inversions and daily technical extrications

(Note: This class will be delivered at a Key City Social Event...Date: TBD)

“In- Extremis Readiness"

Instructor: Josh Burchick (Howard County Fire/Rescue- Maryland)

Class Description: In-Extremis Readiness. Research, Theory, and Application for Mayday Events. This class will be discuss the five personal attributes required of the firefighter, leadership and psychology affecting human and team performance, metabolic data from real mayday events showcasing the need for physically fit and emotionally regulated firefighters, and basic tactics to get you out of the 5 most common mayday events.

“R.I.T: Not Just A Checkbox"

Instructor: Brandon Cory (Marquette City FD.- Michigan)

Class Description: In the class the instructor will go over the importance of RIT on the fire ground while still being able to accomplish the main mission at the fullest ability. In a lot of areas in the country RIT is looked at as a second thought or something that can be put together if something goes bad. Especially in areas with low or minimal staffing. The class will go over how we can assure we have people in place to protect our own. The importance of each member of the fire service needing to know firefighter survival skills and basic RIT skills. The data behind firefighter survival and RIT. Physiological and psychological impacts of a Mayday and RIT scenario. The instructor will also go over a LODD he was involved in as the RIT team and first member to the down firefighter. The lessons learned from the incident and how to improve from those lessons.

“Morale - The Infinite Game”

Instructor: Bobby McCaa (Frederick County Fire/Rescue- Maryland)

Class Description: Any member of a high performing team can agree of the importance of morale. If we agree that morale is important, how do we build it? How do we achieve it? How can we create more of it? How long will it take? Often, the answers regarding damaging morale are much easier to grasp and happen much faster.

Through an examination and facilitated discussion, the group will define morale and it's importance. Following the understanding of morale, as defined, and it's importance, the group will explore strategies for building and maintaining a positive morale environment. This discussion will explore the works of Simon Sinek and James Carse, as well as a multitude of examples from sport, military, law enforcement and firefighting.

“Lessons & Leadership From A Senior Man”

Instructor: Al Benjamin (FDNY Rescue Co.1- Retired - New York City)

Class Description: The fire service is changing fast, and the idea of a young person with little time on becoming the senior person is here.

This program is designed to spark ideas, share some insights on how to be that successful, respected senior leader in your department or company.

This program is dedicated to the “junior firefighters that are becoming the senior firefighters in the in the fire service.”

“The Senior Man, Informal Leader of the Firehouse”

Instructor: Jess Rodzinka (Charlottesville Fire Department- Virginia)

Class Description: In a firehouse there is formal leadership: Fire Chief; Battalion Chief; Captain & Lieutenant. However, there is the informal leadership in the firehouse, the Senior man. In this class we will discuss how to be the Senior man. Whether you have 2 years or 20, this class will talk about being the informal leader in the firehouse, at the kitchen table or even out for an evening with the Brothers and Sisters.

“The Command Mindset”

Instructor: Dan Shaw (Fairfax County Fire Dept.- Virginia)

Class Description: Listed consistently in after action, close call, and line of duty death reports is the lack of clear command and control. What is not offered is the root causes of why sound and consistent command and control was not executed. Nor is training or clear and tangible examples an incident commander can use to understand where their command and control faltered or how they can improve. This class provides the “why” and the “how” behind becoming a better incident commander. Delivered from a 30+year veteran Chief officer that has served as a Company officer, Battalion Chief, Deputy Chief, and Chief of Operations in a large metro department that responds to over 130,000 incidents a year. Learning the fundamental building blocks that build and support a strong incident commander is paramount to operational success on the fireground. This class will cover leadership, impact of stress on your performance, 3 keys to strong and successful incident command, and how to terminate an incident correctly and provide feedback to foster future success.

“Full Contact Leadership: Meeting The Prime Directive”

Instructor: Anthony Avillo (North Hudson FD- New Jersey)

Class Description: The fire service exists for only one reason: to get out the door ready to go. The Prime Directive, “Nothing shall interfere with your ability to maintain the in-service and ready status of your Command” will be the main focus of this discussion. This course will discuss what Full Contact Leadership is and how it applies to all things fire. The student will be made to understand the mantra of the Prime Directive and the absolute requirement of understanding that leadership, discipline, and accountability come out of the firehouse just like every tool we use to mitigate an emergency. Further, that what happens out on the street is based on how we handle ourselves and our responsibilities in the soft environment. Failures in the soft environment of the firehouse will eventually come home to roost on the fireground. We will discuss how proactive and diligent measures off the fireground will lead to a safer and more effective fire operation.

“Combat Ready Firefighting”

Instructors: Nick Martin, Frank Malta & Sean Donovan- (North Carolina & Maryland)

Class Description: Combat Ready Firefighting

MINDSET IS EVERYTHING IT IS THE CORNERSTONE OF ANY GOOD FIREFIGHTER, COMPANY OR DEPARTMENT.

Having the right mindset and attitude is the greatest asset - or liability - that a firefighter brings to the fireground.

Our attitude drives how we prepare, and how we prepare drives how we perform. Too many firefighters, and entire departments, have allowed complacency and poor attitudes to slip into their heads and operations.

The result of this complacency has been inefficient operations that do not deliver what our citizens expect and deserve. This program covers

- The sources and causes of complacency and what we can do about it.

- How firefighters can recalibrate themselves as individuals

- How company officers and chiefs can build high-performing firefighting units and departments.

- A roadmap to taking yourself and your company to the next level - and how to inspire and lead others to do the same.

“Training Firefighters To Win On The Fireground”

Instructor: Dennis Reilly (Cherry Hill FD- New Jersey)

Class Description: One can make the argument that the traditional approach to training does not adequately prepare their members to be successful on the fireground. This program is designed to identify the short comings with the conventional approach to fire service training and offer suggestions to help you improve your training program. The quality of your service is directly tied to the quality of your training. This program will help you to close the gap between expectations and performance.

“Dedication, Discipline & Details"

Instructor: Eric Budd (Washington DC FD- Rescue 3)

Class Description: Ever thought about the characteristics that separate a good firefighter from a truly great one? Is it years of experience? Being aggressive? Going to a bunch of conferences or training events? A salty fire helmet?

The best companies in your department, region or even across the country all have the same thing in common: mastery of the basics which are built off of attention to details. These members train tirelessly until they are unconsciously competent at the skills required to not only meet, but exceed the standards and expectations set forth by their organization. The people that we serve deserve that!

This dynamic lecture dives into different areas where the little details make a difference. From laying out your gear and masking up, the way you run lines, throw ladders, force a door or package a downed firefighter, the details matter! We will talk about how this concept can be applied on and off the fireground to help the overall efficiency and effectiveness when the clock is ticking. We will also discuss how to adopt change in your organization to create a fire first mentality where the details can influence positive change.

“Firehouse Culture; Ideas Over Egos"

Instructor: Nick Peppard (Oshkosh Fire Dept- Wisconsin)

Class Description: Have you ever noticed how many times we dismiss great ideas because of WHO is presenting them? So often we in the fire service fail to even consider ideas because we "don't like so and so" or "have a beef" with someone over something they said or did. We often allow petty differences, personal egos or stereotypes to cloud our judgment and in doing so miss many great concepts, ideas, and innovations. Oftentimes messages get lost in translation due to who is delivering the information or how we perceive their delivery. We get caught up in politics and popularity contests which causes our organizations to stagnate and become toxic environments, rather than positive, productive and proactive firehouses. I believe we as a fire service can and should do our part to use sound judgment and value ideas over personalities. We owe it to our citizens and our brothers and sisters to let the best ideas win!

This lecture covers manifestations of an ego driven culture and examines ways to combat this issue in your own firehouse. This class takes an honest, blue-collar approach to building productive teams where the best ideas win!

“Mobile Integrated Health: Help Us Help You”

Instructor: Avital Graves (Montgomery County Fire/Rescue- Maryland)

Class Description: Over 15 MIH programs serve the State of Maryland, do you know what they do? MIH does more than just handle high utilizers of the department. Find out more about the MIH model, how they are a valuable asset for your department, and how to contact them for help.

“Embers Within; Igniting The Flames For A Healing Mindset”

Instructor: TJ Prieur (Frederick County Fire/Rescue- Maryland)

Class Description: In this presentation, we'll explore the concept of "Compounding Trauma" and its impact on our mental well-being and daily experiences. Drawing from personal experience as a member of the RIT team during the LODD death in 2021, we'll dive into the transformative journey he underwent when his mindset no longer resonated with his goals and life purpose. This session will guide you on how to transform challenging and triggering calls into a powerful catalysts for adopting a "Growth Mindset" mentality. By the end of the class, you'll gain practical tools that can be readily applied in your daily life, paving the way for a meaningful and joyous existence even after encountering tough situations.

“Preserving The Fire Service Through the Lens”

Instructor: Lloyd Mitchell (New York City)

Class Description: They say it takes 10,000 hours of practice for you to become great at something. How does one become great at preserving the history of the fire department? Over the years fires have declined, access to firehouses and fire scenes has declined.

This course will take a look at Photojournalist Lloyd Mitchell’s photographs over the last fifteen years covering the Buffalo Fire Department, Detroit Fire Department, Fire Department of New York, New York Police Department, Musicians and Athletes.

Everyone talks about the fires but at the end of your career, people often forget about being there. This will take a deeper dive into why it is important for the photographer to be present. It will take a deeper dive into talking about the background of these departments incidents, line of duty death images and the build up it takes to make you great at your craft. It will focus on what it is like to create compelling or unique imagery in tense situations.

Photography is about executing the use of light, moment unfolding in the frame and capturing of emotion. In today’s fast paced world of news imagery, Firefighters, Paramedics and Police events are often covered but quickly forgotten about. Powerful images of firefighters working include the images of the Baltimore Firefighters killed in the line of duty on January, 24,2022 by Associated Press Photojournalist Julio Cortez. Through this unfortunate incident, a hashtag #takethephoto was born. Firefighters are beginning to understand why visuals are so important. The fire service is about fighting fires and who’s on the rig with you during your toughest battles.

Photojournalist Lloyd Mitchell is an award-winning photojournalist from Brooklyn, New York. His stunning imagery has been seen locally, nationally and internationally. He takes pride in creating interesting images in chaotic situations. The more intense the situation the better the imagery. His work has appeared in Reuters News Agency, New York Times, AMNY, NY Post, New York Daily News. He has had over ten cover images for Firehouse Magazine, Fire Engineering Magazine and Fire Rescue Magazine.

“Handling Fire Alarm & Sprinkler Activations”

Instructor: Mike Wolfschmidt (Westampton Township Fire- New Jersey)

Class Description: This class will be interactive with the attendees, who will be presented with situations that are photos and videos of real-life incidents or fire inspections I have responded to personally. This will give fire officers, or potential acting officers an opportunity hone their skills in decision making/trouble shooting and proper notification to the LEA for these types of incidents. By the end of the of the course, the student should be able to identify:

-How to investigate/troubleshoot why a fire detection and suppression system activated when there is no apparent fire or emergency.

-How to identify and properly utilize fire department sprinkler/standpipe connections, including basic information for pump operators.

-How to identify and operate water control valves for fire sprinkler systems.

-Examples of imminent hazard conditions involving fire detection and suppression systems and when to notify the Fire Official/Fire Marshal of a Local Enforcing Agency.

"T.Y.F.Y.S"

Instructor: Joshua Walter (Frederick County Fire/Rescue- Maryland)
Class Description: Does your walk look like you’ve been “Hitting it Hard from the Yard”? Join me as we

dive into a faith-based look into the culture of the fire service. Bringing parts of the job like history, common practices, perceptions and the qualities of firefighter’s full circle in

relation to our walk with the Lord. There will come a time in all our careers when we will be faced with making a transmission where the outcome will be dictated by what we

have put into our training and skills. Where will you stand when you need to make that transmission to the Lord?

1 Peter 5:2-4

“Commit to the Conversation: Planning for the Unthinkable”

Instructors: Celeste Flynn & Sara Laird (Phoenix Advocates)

Class Description: Planning is your job - you are expected to be prepared, equipped and in control when you show up for someone else's worst day. Have you done that for your own family - have you educated and empowered them to pick up the pieces should the unthinkable happen to you? Celeste and Sara will share their unique stories from the point of notification to navigating the first months and year of line of duty process and paperwork. They will share key planning steps and considerations as well as resources that you should know about. Their experience is their own and also drawn from numerous positive and negative stories they've collected over their years as part of the fire widow community. They will encourage thoughtful consideration of survivor planning and the need to have those conversations with yourself, your loved ones and even your fellow firefighters regardless of how uncomfortable it may be.