From Captain David Konys Dealing with manpower issues is a problem that I deal with at the department where I work and where I volunteer.  I am always looking for ways to maximize our manpower and it starts on the training ground.   I usually have a three man engine crew and when we are […]

In this episode of the Engine House Training Podcast, Kansas City, Missouri Fire Captain Charley Cashen shares his story of survival. Charley was caught in a rapidly changing fire while searching for a victim in the basement of a home in January 2015. Captain Cashen, a 30 year fire service veteran shares his experience, and lessons […]

Be sure to check out our HOT class at FDIC 2015: Firefighter Bailout Choosing the Right Bailout System for Your Department February 11, 2015 by Frank Lipski Leave a Comment   Introduction The process of choosing a bailout system for your agency can be difficult to say the least.  In this article, I am going to share with you my […]

[Podcast-001] – FOOLS Talk From MU Winter Fire School 2015 February 9, 2015 by Frank Lipski 1 Comment In this interview we talk with members of the Muddy River Fools, Natural Fools, and Ozark Mountain Fools about the brotherhood and the FOOLS organization.  Great conversation about upcoming events, and all things firefighting.  Recorded LIVE from University of Missouri […]

You asked for it, here it is. Condensed version of the online Officer Boot Camp. This class is shorter and has fewer assignments for those with time restraints. Register at the link: Register HERE For those that want a more intimate setting, schedule a one day or two day program at your fire department. Contact […]

How do you run your 2 1/2″ lines? What types of nozzles? Pre-connect or static? Length? What is your preference and why? This is a valuable weapon when deployed correctly. However, some are of the opinion that it’s just to big and heavy to use for an initial attack or with just one person. What […]

We all know that getting water on the fire as quickly as possible is the best way to avoid bad situations. We also know that some of the best in the business have been confronted with situations beyond their control even after doing all the right things and were forced to make very tough decisions […]

A common question that is posed from current and prospective officers along with engaged firefighters is “how do you deal with superior officers or an organization that doesn’t want to move forward?” First, it’s not always the organization or the superior officers that are the sole problem. I’ve seen good, engaged, enthusiastic  firefighters circumvent the […]

In recent weeks I have had the opportunity to be involved in both sides of the promotional process: as a participant and as an interviewer. Both are stressful and will challenge you. You must be able to pull from your training, education, experience and coaching in both circumstances to arrive at a positive decision and […]