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COLUMNS
04 | Comment
07 | Front Seat
Breaking through writer’s block to craft engaging firefighter training
20 | Psychological PPE
Safeguarding against distractions: Taking a methodical approach
22 | From Hire to Retire
Bridging the gap between tradition and technology in firefighter training
Firehouse
Desensitizing
By Brittani Schroeder
Preparing today’s firefighters for tomorrow’s challenges
With each call you respond to and every educational outreach you undertake, you are responsible for safeguarding lives and property within the communities you serve. This duty underscores the importance of training, which has long been the backbone of the fire service and will continue to be. However, like our world, needs and priorities are changing. Consider the advancements in fire science, the rapid increase of electric vehicles on the roads and lithium-ion batteries in residential settings, the standards and certifications required of each firefighter, the ever-evolving skills necessary for technical rescue operations, the emergence of new technologies to fight faster-burning fires, and the increasing prominence of mental health and resiliency awareness among your ranks. These are not just trends but vital aspects demanding attention and preparedness.
I recently had the opportunity to discuss training strategies with Gunter Kramer, acting assistant chief of professional development and training at District of North Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services. His insights underscored that effective training ultimately hinges on both financial invest-
ment and time commitment. The nine weeks dedicated annually to technical rescue training at his department exemplify this kind of time dedication, but as Kramer pointed out, these efforts are intrinsically tied to financial allocations. Each training initiative requires resources, and every moment spent in preparation is a moment when members are potentially unavailable for immediate response. This balance between readiness and responsiveness resonates with every fire department across Canada, each adapting its training regimen to suit its community’s unique demands and fiscal realities.
As we navigate these complexities, I hope we can all continue to embrace innovation in training, ensuring that our skills match the demands of tomorrow.
In this month’s cover story, we delve into how the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service and the Calgary Fire Department have recalibrated their training models to serve their firefighters and communities better. Their departments’ journeys, like many others, reflect a broader narrative within the fire service—a narrative of adaptation and resilience in
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the face of evolving challenges.
As we navigate these complexities, I hope we can all continue to embrace innovation in training, ensuring that our skills match the demands of tomorrow. Together, you uphold not only the traditions of the fire service but also its capacity to safeguard lives and property today and in the future.
As always, I invite you to pitch me your ideas, send me your latest news and accomplishments, or connect with me to have a conversation. You can reach me at bschroeder@ annexbusinessmedia.com.
Until next time, happy reading, and be well.
July 2024 Vol. 47, No. 2 cdnfirefighter.com
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KPU students design tents to protect firefighters from wildfire smoke
A press release from Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) said KPU students designed sophisticated tents to protect firefighters from forest fire smoke and provide them with access to clean air.
“These professionals are often stationed far from their base camps and are constantly exposed to harmful smoke and poor air quality, even during breaks,” said Kevin Kang, a third-year student at the Wilson School of Design at KPU. “Our goal was to create a clean-air shelter that could help reduce the immediate dangers of smoke inhalation and address the long-term health risks.”
The shelters are said to have a three-layer air filtration system similar to advanced cabin air filters. The system has been engineered to remove a wide range of pollutants and create a breathable environment within the tent.
The university stated that there are two sizes of tent: a smaller model designed for two people and tailored for fire line use and a larger tent that provides space for up to 12 people and is meant for fire camp use.
The British Columbia Wildfire Service plans to test these clean-air shelter prototypes this summer at fire camps impacted by wildfire smoke.
“Finding a type of respiratory protection that is effective under extreme conditions is challenging. Historically, the B.C. Wildfire Service staff were not provided respiratory protection against wildfire smoke, ash and dust exposure on the fireline,” said Jesse Wallace-Webb, an initial attack crew leader and research analyst at the BC Wildfire Service. “Future iterations of these clean-air shelter prototypes might represent one potential tool, among many others, for addressing smoke exposure during wildfire response.”
$1.2 million
has been invested by Natural Resources Canada for the Canadian Interagency Forest Centre to expand the Centre’s wildfire prevention and mitigation capacity firefighters are employed by the BC Wildfire Service each year.
New fire department 17 years in the making
The Columbia Shuswap Regional District Board in British Columbia voted unanimously to establish the region’s fourteenth fire department at the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. The CSRD received approval from 66 per cent of the property owners in the area before passing this bylaw. An agreement has been reached for the Town of Golden to provide fire service until a full-service fire department can be established.
The resort owners will begin constructing a fire hall as soon as possible, and a fire truck will be stationed on-site to service the area.
Firefighter recruitment efforts for the new department will begin in early 2025.
Calgary receives Pierce’s electric fire truck
Calgary Fire Department plans to put a Pierce Volterra Electric Pumper into service this summer, the first placement of the company’s electric model in Canada. Calgary is the fourth department to receive the Volterra, following three cities in the U.S.A.
1,300
Manufactured on a Pierce Enforcer custom chassis, the pumper has a parallel-electric drivetrain with a 244 kWh-battery solution and a patented electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission. Other features include a 500-gallon water tank, Waterous CMU 1500 GPM two-stage pump, Husky 3 foam system, and cold climate package.
The city of Calgary committed to transitioning to electric and low-carbon vehicle technologies in its Green Fleet Strategy. This strategy is part of the city’s 2023 to 2026 Climate Implementation Plan, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent by 2030.
Front Seat
By Jason Clark
Breaking through writer’s block to craft engaging firefighter training
We train for when we hit roadblocks in the fire service and how to overcome them. We pride ourselves in how quickly we can approach a door that is locked and gain entry to a house fire or cut apart a vehicle to get access to a patient. There are tools that are specifically designed to deal with obstacles that we face on the fire ground – and we train with those tools.
But what happens when you hit an obstacle whilst in a training role, specifically as the person who coordinates and programs the training? If you talk to anyone who writes music, or literature, the dreaded writer’s block can hit and cause a creative lock-up, which is often defined as a “psychological inhibition that prevents a writer from producing new material”.
I don’t consider myself an author or a writer on a major level, although as someone who oversees training on several different levels, I have been a victim of ‘writer’s block’, and it can leave you staring at a blank screen not knowing where to start. Sometimes finding the right tool or set of tools is complicated to crack the code of writer’s block.
Where I found that writer’s block can set in is when you are in a situation of training both probationary firefighters and senior staff in your department. You need to keep both groups
engaged and attempt to find a common ground where everyone will be able to participate, but one group won’t get overwhelmed, and the other group won’t get bored. Of course, you also need to have both groups take something away from the training.
I’ve been in many discussions about training with other fire instructors and one phrase can stir up a discussion: “Back to the basics”. Some other instructors have told me, “We should never go back to the basics, because we should never leave them”. I agree but also understand we can get sidetracked with various forms of training and drift away from the basics.
If you don’t want to lose your basics, keep your newest members or probationary firefighters in mind when you start your lesson plan and then think of a
“Is it probable or possible?” When I try to plan a training session, I use that as a guide.
senior member. Add in your standard operating guideline or policy that supports your ‘why’ behind the lesson, and call on your senior members to understand and know those guidelines – especially if they are thinking of promoting. Use training to build your succession plan for your next officers. Every year when the weather gets cold, I make a point of giving a carbon monoxide lecture and I incorporate our standard operating guidelines and air monitoring numbers that need to be remembered. Taking the basic plan and adding a situation or a scenario where it could be used on the fire ground with both the recruits and the senior members,
showing how they would work together, is a great foundation for your lesson plan. A carbon monoxide alarm scenario with levels reading 120 parts per million and a gas dryer malfunction is starting simple but could involve both recruits and senior members.
I try to avoid the insanely complex scenarios—I leave those to our emergency management groups. It’s great training, but it usually involves command structure and triage, multiple agencies, etc., and it’s just somewhat out of my wheelhouse.
Aaron Fields, a Seattle firefighter, once said in a lecture, “Is it probable or possible?” When I try to plan a training session, I use that as a guide. Is it possible for a plane carrying HAZMAT materials to make an emergency landing and skid into a gas refinery? It is possible. But is it probable? Sure, great takeaway operational skill sets could be learned from that training scenario, but I’d argue we would have a higher probability of getting a call for a motor vehicle collision with a medical emergency that requires patient extrication.
Be careful when trying to program the super scenario versus the simple scenario. Writer’s block is a very real thing when it comes to planning a training session, but it can be beaten. Just bring the right tools to break it down and don’t focus on writing the next blockbuster movie.
Jason Clark has been a volunteer firefighter in southwestern Ontario since 2007. Having made the transition from firefighter to captain, Jason shares perspectives on roles in the fire service and riding in the front seat. Contact Jason at jaceclark71@gmail.com or @jacejclark.
Recipe rescue
By Patrick Mathieu
Firehouse cooking tips: How to cook like a pro without formal training
Ihave always loved the training edition of Canadian Firefighter. Firefighters helping firefighters hone their skills and become more knowledgeable and proficient on the fire ground, and in my case, the kitchen. Have you ever wondered how to be a better cook? Contrary to what some celebrity chefs would have you believe, you don’t need to have had a food-loving Grandma teaching you how to cook classic recipes from when you were still in diapers, and you don’t need to have served ten years of hard labour under a Michelin-starred French chef in Paris. Just like if you want to become a better firefighter, you need two things: a willingness to learn and a willingness to practice. The rest can always be taught
But where to begin? The sheer volume of books, TV shows, online recipes and guides to cooking for beginners can be as overwhelming as learning to cook itself, and everybody’s reasons for learning are different. Some people start from scratch, learning how to cook for themselves or their crew for the first time. Some might be trying to help out around the house and have young families to cook for; some might want to learn show-stopping recipes to impress their friends and family or firehouse. Some may even want to be the next Food Network star.
Whatever the reasons may be, here are some important lessons I’ve learned over the course of my career to become a better cook.
Learn techniques, not recipes. Once you’ve mastered techniques, you can cook so many things without recipes. Of course, one has to start somewhere, so do start with recipes. Making a whole chicken in the oven tonight? You’re learning how to roast. Cooking a pot roast? You’re learning how to braise. Throwing leftover vegetables from the fridge in with some
protein in a skillet? That’s a stir-fry or a sauté. Once you learn a technique, you can substitute ingredients and seasonings and cook from instinct. As long as you have the basic technique down, nothing is limiting you to create something new.
If using a recipe, read the recipe thoroughly. Read it at least twice, if not three times, before you plunge in. I’ve skimmed over recipes many times, thinking I could make it with my eyes closed, only to proceed and miss some tiny, vital step. It’s worth the extra time to comprehend a recipe completely. Making mistakes only wastes time and money.
Taste everything as you’re cooking. For the best, final outcome of your food, you should be tasting it along the way. Just because a recipe tells you to add a teaspoon of salt, how will you know that was enough to season a pot of stew? By tasting it. Food can also taste completely different after an hour of simmering. After adding lemon juice to a vinaigrette, how
do you know if it’s acidic enough for your salad? You can taste it by dipping a salad leaf in to check. Always check for balance by taste-testing your food and make adjustments as needed.
Clean as you go. I know that this might be hard for some people, but as I’m cooking, I try to work cleanly. I wipe my surfaces in between steps, wash dirty bowls and utensils, and try to keep my work area and cutting board neat. It creates a much calmer cooking experience and causes less chaos.
Everything in its place. This refers to the French phrase “mise en place”. Have everything you need to cook on hand, prepped and ready to go. This not only means ingredients but also pots, pans, utensils, cooking gadgets, recipes, etc. There is nothing more frustrating while you’re cooking than having to stop and look for needed items. In stir-fry recipes, you must have all your ingredients prepped with the wok ready to go before you start cooking.
You can always add more, but you can’t take it away. I’ve learned this lesson many times, the hard way. When you are unsure of how much of an ingredient to add, it’s better to start slowly and add more in small increments. I’ve over-salted, made things too acidic, added too much sugar and made things overly spicy because I didn’t have the patience to add, taste, readjust and add more. Once you’ve overdone it, it’s much harder to fix, or it may not be fixable at all.
Sharp knives are the safest knives. Many people are scared of very sharp knives but sharp knives are much safer to use than dull ones. You have less control with a dull knife and risk cutting yourself if a dull knife slips or goes in another direction. Keep your knives sharp at home with a honing steel, which should be used daily. Sharpen them with a sharpening
Patrick Mathieu is a Captain Training Officer with Waterloo Fire Rescue in Ontario. He has appeared on Food Networks Chopped Canada and is the author of The FireHouse Chef Cookbook. Please email him at thefirehouse_chef@yahoo.ca and follow him on Instagram @stationhouse_
PHOTO: PATRICK MATHIEU
stone or knife sharpening tool when they get too dull. If this is too much work for you, take your knives to a professional knife sharpener once or twice a year, depending on how much you use them. Learn how to use salt and when to use certain kinds. Salt is an important ingredient in cooking; salt is probably one of the top reasons restaurant food tastes better than home-cooked food. Home cooks usually under-season or don’t season food properly. Food that is seasoned in layers tastes better than food that is seasoned only at the end. You should season ingredients at the right time as you’re cooking. Boiling water should taste very salty when cooking pasta or blanching vegetables. Meat should be salted as soon as you bring it home from the grocery store. The kind of salt you use is important, too. There’s a
big difference between Diamond Crystal kosher salt, Morton’s kosher salt and regular sea salt. There are many varieties, and you should try out different kinds to find your preference.
“Try to enjoy cooking; don’t view it as a task that is hard or unfulfilling.”
Use the best ingredients you can afford. Quality over quantity. I would prefer to eat a better, smaller cut of steak fewer times throughout the year than choose to eat factory-farmed beef every week of every month. Quality ingredients add up to better food and you have to do less to them to make them taste great. This could also apply to cooking tools, knives, pots
and pans. Buy only the tools you really need that are of better quality. Don’t waste your money on things that only do one job, or you’ll only reach for once a year. A restaurant supply store is a great place to find quality kitchenware for less.
Cook with love and enjoyment, not drudgery. Any great chef will tell you that everything cooked with care tastes better, and it’s true. Try to enjoy cooking; don’t view it as a task that is hard or unfulfilling. Everyone must eat, and since we can’t –and shouldn’t – eat out for every meal, you might as well learn to enjoy cooking. It’s a necessary skill that can bring so much happiness to yourself and the people in your life. This is what I have always loved most about cooking: the joy it brings to my family, friends and the firehouse.
As always, eat well and stay safe.
The evolution of training
Insights from Calgary and Winnipeg
By Brittani Schroeder
In recent years, fire services across Canada, like the Calgary Fire Department (CFD) and Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS), have undertaken initiatives to enhance firefighter training, responding to evolving challenges and emerging best practices. Many departments have recognized the imperative of revisiting fundamental training methods and embracing innovative approaches to ensure the safety and preparedness of their personnel.
From reevaluating response models to integrating modern fire science and prioritizing mental wellness, Canadian Firefighter was able to learn about the journeys of both services as they refocused their training initiatives to meet the needs of their firefighters and communities.
Evolution of training strategies
In the ever-changing landscape of firefighter training, recent years have seen a shift in priorities for both CFD and WFPS.
For CFD, the past few years have been about revisiting the fundamentals, especially after the global COVID-19 pandemic.
“Training during that time was certainly impacted, and it feels like you can never catch up. But about identifying priorities, and what’s the difference that will make a difference,” said Robin Loewen, training coordinator. The training team initiated a reset, scrutinizing their processes to enhance member training. This involved station-based drills, fostering crew-centric training, and updating instructor-led sessions for “maximum” impact.
CFD has also reevaluated their response models, implementing evidence-based practices from the Underwriters Laboratories Fire Safety Research Institute (UL FSRI). The training division is also working to
create a tactics guide for the service for the first time.
“We’re developing cadre-based training, born out of the evidence-based fire suppression research from FSRI, and starting to implement new techniques, including our hose handling skills,” said Loewen.
Curriculum designers like Justyna Potocki observed a shift towards blended training approaches, incorporating e-learning to establish a knowledge baseline before hands-on sessions.
Projects within CFD’s annual training plan focus on aligning with NFPA standards, ensuring each member’s skills and knowledge are up to par. Jason Riddell, training officer and acting training coordinator, highlighted the implementation of a roster system to track the training progress of all 1,500 members, ensuring no member falls behind.
Within WFPS’ training division, the focus has been on updating its officer training beyond its historically skills-focused and command-centric approach. While still prioritizing these aspects, soft skills and personnel
Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service conducting live fire training.
management training are now significantly included. New programs immerse officers in various human resources scenarios, with the hope of fostering collaboration and adaptability that is crucial for future leadership roles.
Scott Wilkinson, deputy chief of fire rescue operations and training, noted the emphasis placed on the service’s fire dynamics program, which was derived from Ottawa Fire Service’s ‘From Knowledge to Practice’ initiative. This program combines four days of theoretical learning before hands-on training that covers fire science, heat release rates, chemicals, gases, and more.
“We’re trying to put our people in a better position to fight fires safely and intelligently. This includes their fire science knowledge, decision-making techniques and hose advancements,” said Wilkinson. Eighty-five per cent of WFPS is now trained in this program.
Beyond fire dynamics, WFPS stresses the importance of shared skill practice, particularly as a joint fire and paramedic service. Reality-based medical training encourages collaborative skill application in various scenarios.
They also place a strong focus on occupational hygiene. With the goal of not bringing contaminants back to the station in the firetrucks, crews coming out of a scene will use specific equipment doffing techniques, wipe downs, bagging and cleaning before gear is returned to the station for advanced cleaning.
“We also utilize a PPE maintenance program across our stations so that our crews don’t wash their gear anymore. The bags are picked up and taken to a centralized cleaning site staffed by accredited personnel for inspection and cleaning. This is all with the goal of reducing cancer risks,” said Wilkinson.
Transformations in fire science instruction
Looking back at the evolution of fire science, Wilkinson, with over three decades of firefighting experience, noted a rapid increase in knowledge in recent years, contrasting with slower progress during his early career.
“Until the early 2000s, the industry relied on textbooks from the 70s and 80s,” he remarked.
As building materials changed, so did the need for updated education. Modern fire science emphasizes specific techniques and condition recognition over simply charging into fires, a practice that has proven detrimental in the past. Wilkinson stressed the importance of proper assessment and tactical decision-making to ensure safety for both firefighters and occupants.
CFD, an early adopter of UL FSRI’s fire science, has integrated it into training for over a decade. “Although adoption was gradual due to our organization’s size, perceptions have shifted,” said Loewen. Challenges initially arose due to isolated UL FSRI studies, which later evolved to encompass interrelated aspects, aiding in quantification and discussion. “One example of evolving procedures concerns door control. We handle that differently than we did 10 years ago.”
Standardized jargon has also helped to facilitate communication and alignment with industry best practices, which have enhanced scene descriptions and understanding among members.
Bringing the science into practical applications is now a major focus for CFD.
Their training division engages in collaborative efforts, attending conferences and meetings with departments on both sides of the border to develop best practices. Discussions often revolve around building construction’s impact on fires and burn times and have emphasized the need for understanding how heat release rates affect suppression efforts.
“We need to fire fires aggressively, but from a safe distance while adhering to occupational health and safety guidelines,” said Riddell.
Managing lithium-ion battery emergencies
Lithium-ion battery risks are a constant concern for today’s firefighters, driving extensive research at services like WFPS and CFD to establish best practices for member and community safety.
Wilkinson noted the growth of lithium-ion batteries causing structure fires, as electric vehicle (EV) incidents are less frequent in Winnipeg at this time. “It’s difficult because everyone is doing research, so there are dozens of differing perspectives on how to deal with and manage it. There are specialized pieces of equipment to use, but then the car manufacturers are saying not to use them,” he said.
WFPS has been researching for nearly a year to finalize a revised standard operating procedure for vehicle fires, emphasizing safety, approach and management, including the importance of cooling the batteries while being mindful of toxic runoff.
Wilkinson underscored the challenges posed by EV charging stations in underground parkades, given the heightened heat transmission and complexities of combating fires in enclosed spaces.
“Not much makes me lose sleep at night, but that does,” Wilkinson said. Calgary firefighters have collab -
and reinforced frames.
“We have mass and velocity working against us for extrication purposes. Instead of cutting by using our hydraulic tools, we’re fracturing the skeleton of the car, which also poses a danger to firefighters. Then, with exposed wires, we need to understand the different voltages of different wires, and the potential energy that is being stored,” said Riddell. “Just remember, you could fight a car fire for hours and it won’t go out, whereas a booster tank was typically going to solve your problem in a gas vehicle.”
According to the International Association of Fire and Rescue Services, firefighters need up to 40 times more water to put out a fire in an EV than a standard gasoline car.
“There’s a reason why it’s causing so much stress on everyone because, for every solution, there’s already someone who’s saying that it’s outdated,” said Loewen. “We’re really just trying to figure out ‘what does safe look like’ in these situations.”
“We’re trying to put our people in a better position to fight fires safely and intelligently.” – Scott Wilkinson
orated with agencies like Los Angeles and Phoenix, sharing knowledge on managing the lithium-ion crisis in similar environments. The hazmat division at CFD is actively developing policies and guidelines for handling battery-related events and educating frontline members on hazards, response options and logistical considerations.
In addition to EV fires, fire services across North America are facing severe challenges with personal mobility device fires, like eBikes and eScooters, and motor vehicle accidents involving EVs’ heavier weight
Prioritizing mental wellness
Amid growing awareness of the importance of mental health in first responders, CFD has implemented a multifaceted approach to mental wellness, featuring resilience officers, a mental health governance committee, a psychological safety group, and an ability management and wellness section that involves staff psychologists. Limited exposure therapy aids in member reintegration, while recruit training includes resilience and stress management techniques.
CFD has recently launched on-
line learning modules covering trauma-informed leadership and mental readiness. These programs are tailored for firefighters, leaders, and families of first responders.
“It’s okay not to be okay,” emphasizes Riddell, highlighting the culture of openness and support within the department, which he believes has a profound impact.
Similar to these sentiments, Wilkinson recognized that his dedication to firefighters’ mental health began many years ago after serving as a peer support member and coordinator for WFPS. Establishing a robust peer support program and a behavioural health unit with dedicated behavioural nurses and prompt access to psychologists has been a priority for the WFPS.
“A struggle in the fire service is that not many have prompt access to psychological treatment. Some are lucky if they even have peer support or other mental health education,” said Wilkinson. “We recently lost one of our members to suicide, and that reminds us that there’s always more we can be doing to help our people.”
WFPS is often assessing its efforts and exploring new approaches. Recognizing the challenges and costs involved for many services, Wilkinson stressed the importance of prioritizing proactive resources for education and building resilience. “Think of the best interests and wellness of your people.”
Fostering collaboration and innovation
Wilkinson, Loewen and Riddell would all agree on the importance of sharing infor-
mation across services for long-term benefits.
“Keep in mind that it’s copy, edit, paste. While processes from other services are valid, it won’t look exactly the same in your jurisdiction, based on your needs and what you’re dealing with,” said Wilkinson.
His team at WFPS is hoping to generate innovative ideas and systems that can be adopted by smaller services that may have more limited resources. “Creating a compelling business case is key to securing resources,” he advises, stressing the importance of demonstrating how each investment benefits both personnel and the community.
To Wilkinson, every day is a training day. “There should always be something you’re drilling on or practicing. Our job is to be practiced and prepared to perform when the time comes.”
CFD also acknowledged the growing demand for efficiencies as call volumes rise, with plans to expand its ranks by 400 members over a period of four years.
“Training is a perpetual cycle at CFD,” noted Brian McAsey, deputy chief of operations support, highlighting the need to cater to recruits, experienced firefighters, and leaders alike.
Riddell underscored the importance of a balanced training schedule that addresses high-level skills while incorporating thoughtful feedback processes. “Understanding how our adult learners best absorb information is crucial because, overall, we want to be producing excellent firefighters.”
Technical Response
By Chad Roberts
Chad Roberts is an Acting Captain on a Heavy Rescue in Oakville, Ont. He is a member of the Oakville Extrication Team and Vice President of the North American Vehicle Rescue Association. He also instructs at various colleges throughout Ontario and is a current member of the Canadian Motorsports Response Team. Contact Chad at chadroberts12@gmail.com.
Building a foundation: Key principles for successful technical rescue training
It’s the beginning of your shift. You’ve come in to work, checked your gear and the truck. Your regular routine is complete, and you’re about to roll into the kitchen roundtable, where most of us figure out what the rest of the shift is going to entail. This is where things can go really well or can be sidetracked. While you were out doing your checks, your captain got the call to report to training for the day. The first decision must be made: this captain – or those with knowledge of the training assignment – must determine how they will perceive the training and how it is verbalized and delivered to the rest of the crew.
Far too often, I have found that this type of start to the day is met with resistance and reluctance by the crews being summoned to training. But why? We could easily sit back and blame the captain or supervisor, who may treat it with a negative attitude right from the get-go, but let’s dig deeper and get to the core issue. What have we done to make training a sore subject? This job has—and seemingly always should—thrived off our attitude towards training, whether through the specific division or with our crews.
Passion and attitude are truly the name of the game when it comes to training. While we all have our up and down days, we must remember as captains, supervisors and/or training officers that our attitude towards the job, and training specifically, remains consistent for your crews. The approach you take toward the topic and its relevance will always resonate with your people. While training can be challenging and exciting, it can also be mundane at times. Try to remember that it’s not about you. Members of your crew that day may take something entirely different from the session than you will, so try and remain consistent with your approach to the day, no matter the topic. Dissect your
day with your crew and lay it out appropriately so you can achieve your training goals and still fit in anything else that members may have been originally expecting. By doing this, you can make all these achievements a reality to your crew and limit some of their hesitation. Technical rescue-specific training can require many hours in a classroom and studying various materials before physical training commences. This can be waning on a crew but try to understand the reasoning and mission behind the program. Do your best to buy into that program for the good of the people working alongside you, because they deserve that at the very least.
Gauge your crew or the crew you are training that day. I can’t express to you how important it has been for me in my fire service and training career. They all require training, from very junior crews to a veteran group of firefighters. But how this is delivered can’t always be the same. When teaching a new skill or piece of
Take the time to explain the why, especially in the tech rescue environment.
equipment, you must be prepared to approach it differently to get the same message across. The newer members might hang on to every word and ask very few questions, whereas the older, more seasoned veterans may balk at some of this information and challenge you throughout the session. While the approach must differ, you must start by explaining the ‘why’.
Where you train can be made simpler, to make the sessions quicker on those busier days.
Why are we doing it? Why now? Why the change? Why that way and not this way? The younger generation of firefighters has come up in a world where answers are at their fingertips in seconds, so don’t assume they’ll sit back and trust your every word. As for the older generation, they need the ‘why’ to detach from previous processes or equipment and to start associating their past knowledge with the training laid out in front of them.
Involvement might be the biggest gap between these two types of groups during training. We are constantly training from the moment we are hired. Your recruitment class can consist of weeks or months of training, which gives our newer members the skills they need to start their careers but also creates an expectation. These firefighters expect training and want it at a pace that challenges them at every turn. Our more experienced members may shy away from this type of training for many different reasons. Rather than writing off these select groups as untrainable, we must find a way to engage them. In tech rescue training, rather than breaking into a full-scale at-pace evolution, take it slow and get members involved. Fire training happens at a much different pace than service calls, and you need to walk before you can run. Taking it slower will allow everyone to learn together and
bring up valuable information that the more experienced members can offer. Foster this and build it into a technical rescue response that works for the crew, then add a faster pace.
When training for technical response, we must first teach the skill at the most basic level in a classroom environment. Once a basic understanding of the skill and its terminology is established, we can then start learning hands-on at a slow pace— like mentioned previously—until roles and responsibilities are understood. Once the skills can be perfected in a real-world scenario, only then can we introduce new problems to the crews. Adding problems to our members any time before this can create training scars that will halt their passion for training. Issues will come up in the real world during technical rescue incidents, so we must ensure they are brought up and addressed with every firefighter involved beforehand. This will foster that problem-solving mindset that most of our members thrive off of.
Training in the tech rescue world takes time and patience. But more importantly, it takes the right attitude and passion to endure the time needed for all our members to be brought along equally. Everyone has different learning styles and paces when it comes to training, which needs to be understood and utilized when gearing
our training plan for the day. Getting everyone to this level of effectiveness is vital to introduce problems and avoid the dreaded training scars that continue to plague fire department training.
Keep everyone involved and engaged in full-run scenarios.
More complicated scenarios can be learned at ground level before progressing.
Firefighters forging friendships
The value of the World Firefighters Games
By Brittani Schroeder
Every two years, firefighters from around the world convene for the World Firefighters Games (WFG), where they partake in adrenaline-pumping events such as the Toughest Firefighter Alive. Beyond the competition, the Games foster camaraderie and a sense of unity among first responders. Among the dedicated attendees are Brad Shearing and John Martel, who approach the event with unwavering pride for the Canadian fire service.
In the beginning
Brad Shearing always wanted to be a firefighter. “As a kid, I’d see the firetrucks go by with the lights and sirens, and I was excited. I’m 37 and I can say that excitement has never gone away,” he said. Shearing is originally from Northern Ontario, and after a short period of working for a construction company, his boss— who was also the deputy chief of a volunteer fire department in Haileybury, Ont.—helped him become a volunteer firefighter. After moving to Alberta in 2008 and a few more years of volunteer fire fighting, Shearing became a career firefighter in 2012. Since 2008, Shearing has competed in various FireFit competitions to stay in shape and to “be the firefighter [he] would want to rescue [him]”. His mother, who was always his biggest supporter, was diagnosed
“We may technically be competing against each other, but we’re all pushing and cheering each other on,” said Shearing.
with cancer in 2016. This is when he started to take health matters seriously, and to this day he pushes himself and those around him to “be better”. Shearing’s mother lost her battle with cancer in 2022. “Now, when I attend the World Firefighters Games, FireFit, stair climbs, etc., it’s for her and I hope I inspire others,” he said.
John Martel became interested in fire fighting after speaking with Shearing. They both worked for a large producer of synthetic crude oil in Northern Alberta as heavy equipment operators, but Martel’s interest
was piqued when he learned about Shearing’s time as a volunteer firefighter. Martel started taking the required courses to meet the NFPA 1001 standard for professional qualifications. Once complete, Martel moved away from Fort McMurray, Alta., to begin his career with the Athabasca Fire Department.
Martel ultimately wanted to become a firefighter because he wanted to give back to his community. “I think this was the perfect way I could accomplish that goal,” he said.
The Games
The WFG began in 1990 in Auckland, New Zealand, and happens every second year. “This is what we do on the off years when the World Police and Fire Games aren’t taking place,” said Shearing. Host countries over the past 34 years have included the United States, Australia, Canada, South Africa, France, England, China, Korea and Portugal. The location for the 2024 games is Aalborg, Denmark.
Martel has attended almost every WFG since 2002, and Shearing hasn’t missed one since 2012.
“It’s wonderful because anyone is allowed to go, as long as they’re a full-time firefighter, volunteer or retired member,” said Shearing.
The WFG includes a variety of activities to compete in, such as arm wrestling, badminton, basketball, bowling, bucket brigade, cross coun-
try running, cycling, climbing, the firetruck challenge, fishing, golf, judo, karate, marathon and half marathon, rugby, sailing, soccer, softball, squash, swimming, tennis, track and field, triathlon, volleyball, water rescue, windsurfing and wrestling.
“There’s something for everyone. There are activities for the sportier people, but also events like archery, billiards, bowling, chess, darts, the firehouse cook-off, horseshoes, poker and a treasure hunt,” said Martel.
The Toughest Firefighter Alive, specific to the WFG, is an event carried out in full bunker gear that tests each competitor in firefighter-specific disciplines. This includes:
• Hose pulling and rolling,
• An obstacle course,
• A tower, where competitors must handle and pitch ladders and carry equipment up ropes, and
• A stair climb.
Training and preparation
Those attendees preparing for the WFG have differing opinions on how to get ready.
For Shearing, who competes in the Toughest Firefighter Alive, he tries to create a mock-up of the course so he can experience what he’ll feel in the real competition. “I will run that course until I’m sick of it—until I can run it with my eyes closed. When I’m at work, I’ll run with my full bunker gear and the SCBA pack on my back. When I’m at home, I do a lot of leg workouts, cardio exercises, as well as sticking to a strict diet,” he explained.
In contrast, Martel admitted that he’s never been the “most fit individual, not like Brad, anyways!” He prefers events like deep-sea fishing and horseshoes. This year, Martel is planning to compete in the Toughest Firefighter Alive challenge and credits Shearing for the inspiration. “That means I need to hit the gym!” Martel is 50 years old, and his goal is just to be able to say that he complet-
ed the event at his age. He shared that he is grateful that the event is separated into age categories.
A family affair
Both Shearing and Martel recognized that, though this is a sporting competition, the social aspect is the true meaning of the Games.
“There isn’t one ounce of negativity at these events. We may technically be competing against each other, but we’re all pushing and cheering each other on,” said Shearing. One of his favourite parts of the WFG is learning tips and tricks on how to do something faster, better, from fellow firefighters across the world. Even if they don’t speak the same language, they share the common thread of being first responders for their communities.
“It’s really a family. We come from different walks of life, different geographical locations, but we have all gone through similar things. We all have the same heart,” said Martel. He likes to exchange shirts and badges with those he makes connections with while at the Games.
Adding to the family aspect, spouses are encouraged to attend the WFG as well because they can compete in certain challenges alongside the firefighters, like the treasure hunt.
For all firefighters
One of the biggest wishes for Martel and Shearing is to attend the WFG with a large Canadian presence. They both shared that it feels like a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity, but it gets to be experienced every two years.
Martel and his family typically prefer travelling to beach destinations for vacations, so he credits the WFG for bringing him to countries he never would have seen otherwise. “While each attendee does need to cover their own costs for travel and the Games, you can choose how
and Martel
much you want to spend. You could book the fanciest hotel and airline, or you could choose more budget-friendly options—it’s all up to you,” he shared.
Shearing concluded with, “It’s time to experience a new culture with a bunch of people who love what you love: serving others. Let’s go show how great the Canadian fire service truly is.”
Shearing
have made lifelong friends at the WFG, from all across the globe.
Back to basics
By Mark van der Feyst
Mark van der Feyst has been in the fire service since 1999 and is currently a Battalion Chief with the Six Nations Fire & Emergency Services as well as a part-time firefighter with the Fort Gratiot Fire Department. Mark is an international instructor teaching in Canada, the United States and India, and at FDIC. He is the lead author of the Residential Fire Rescue & Tactical Firefighter books. He can be contacted at Mark@FireStarTraining.com.
Desensitizing firefighters – Driving
In our continued series on desensitizing firefighters, we arrive at the topic of driving-related issues. Every fire department and every firefighter can relate to this category as they all have responding fire apparatus, and most firefighters are either driving the fire apparatus or are being driven in one.
One of the main issues that the fire service finds themselves dealing with is the topic of speed. One aspect of speed is not driving to the conditions. In Canada, we are blessed with
seasons, with one of those seasons producing snow, ice, sleet and other wintertime-related road conditions. During the winter, people are more prone to drive a little slower or with diligence because they know what snow, ice, sleet or black ice can produce on the roadways. They can also see the visual of the weather on the roadway, for the most part. Still, we do find ourselves sometimes driving a little too fast despite the visual cues in front of us, with the result producing perhaps a minor or major traffic incident.
Another weather phenomenon to deal with is rain. Rain is a roadway hazard that causes multiple traffic occurrences every year and, in the case of the fire service, it is a major reason for our response to motor vehicle collisions. When we are responding to any call in the fire apparatus, driving in the rain needs to be the same
as driving in the snow. Hydro-plaining can easily occur with water on the roadway, causing the fire truck to lose steering control.
We also need to talk about the wind. There are days that high winds are produced, and this can have an impact on the fire truck’s driving ability. Depending upon the type of fire truck being driven, it can be a giant sailboat, easily catching the wind and affecting its performance, steering and control.
We turn our attention to the fact of the size of the fire apparatus versus a passenger vehicle with respect to speed. The majority of a firefighter’s driving time will be in their own personal vehicle, which will be a passenger type. Regardless of the type or model of passenger vehicle that they drive, there are distinct differences between a passenger vehicle and a fire truck.
One distinct difference will
be the size and weight of the fire truck –they are considerably heavier than a passenger vehicle. Just the fire truck on its own, with no equipment or water onboard, weighs thousands of pounds or hundreds of kilograms more than a passenger vehicle. When we add all the equipment, onboard water and personnel to it, the weight increases. Add to the fire truck an aerial device on top, and you can see how we are piling on more weight, which rests upon axles and tires on the roadway. The weight/size of the fire truck requires special brakes to be used to allow for proper stopping power when operating. When going too fast or not driving safely, the brakes will not be able to produce the stopping power that they need. Young firefighters who are learning how to drive fire trucks properly are surprised when they are not able to stop on a dime as they can with their passenger vehicles. Another factor for our consideration is tunnel vision – driving recklessly or too fast because we must get there right now! Having a quick response time is certainly one of our goals, but driving at a ludicrous speed to achieve it is “ludicrous”. How does a firefighter develop tunnel vision? This can be attributed to a couple of factors, such as lack of sleep or being woken up from a deep sleep and then having to perform at full capacity. Mostly, tunnel vision will be attributed to physiological changes within the firefighter in terms of their heart rate. The higher the heart rate, the higher the tunnel vision that is produced. When there is tunnel vision, the firefighter that’s driving will not see everything and will be focused just on one factor – “got to get there” – which equals driving too fast.
The last consideration is with tradition—tradition being that we have always driven this way or this fast to every call. As much as there is a place for holding traditions in the fire service, concerning speed, this tradition needs to be revised or changed to adopt a better tradition of arriving in one piece so that we can be of assistance. When we are not able to arrive on scene, then we can’t do our job of helping the individual(s) who called for
it. If due to our reckless driving or speeding to the scene, we are involved in a traffic incident, then now we are the ones requiring the assistance.
There are many videos captured by dash cams, traffic cameras and people’s personal cell phones that show the outcomes of a speeding fire truck. These
videos can be useful in educating the fire service on “what not to do” and highlighting the importance of driving within the tolerance of the fire apparatus and not a passenger vehicle. There is a time to respond quickly and there are times to respond so that we can still do our job of serving the public.
Psychological PPE
By James Rychard and Ken Gaskin
In addition to being a firefighter and R2MR instructor from the city of Burlington, Ont., James Rychard is an advocate for mental and behavioural health in the fire service, sitting on multiple association committees. He can be reached at jaymzr007@hotmail.com.
Ken Gaskin, now retired, worked for the London Fire Department from 1980 to 2012. In addition to being a technical team lead, Gaskin was the Captain on Rescue 2 as well as a past VP for Local 142 LPFFA.
Safeguarding against distractions: Taking a methodical approach
The one thing that the fire service is known for is its ability to adapt and mitigate situations. When an emergency arises in a community, firefighters respond with their mobile toolbox on hand; fire apparatus having capabilities to mitigate almost any scenario. Riding those mobile toolboxes are also firefighters and fire officers who have experience and training. These are the technical rescuers: with specialty training such as water, hazmat, rope, trench, and confined space, these rescuers are commandeered for higher-than-normal risk situations. For the London Fire Department (LFD) in 2004, that is exactly what they were deployed for.
When a volunteer fire department does not have the capability to provide higher-level technical protection, they rely on municipal fire departments whose operating budgets are larger than theirs to do so. This is what both mutual and automatic aid provides: it delivers a level of redundancy of protection for communities. The Embro Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department did exactly that; they reached out to the LFD and their technical rescue team to help with a situation they faced at the Federal White Cement Company on Aug. 28, 2004.
Mr. Efrain Del Valle was Columbian and spoke no English. Joining him was his 18-year-old son and two others; together, they made up a four-person team hired to clean out the interior of a cement silo. Mixed with powder and solid cement debris the size of small rocks and
boulders, Efrain and his crew worked safely from a tripod positioned overhead. Suddenly, the floor of powder and cement beneath Efrain—who was working the furthest down in the silo—gave way.
The other three workers, including Efrain’s son, made it out. However, in the attempt to climb out themselves, they indirectly sent material cascading down to Efrain; like sand falling in an hourglass. Trapped and with the unfortunate luck that he now had a frayed cable that kept his harness connected to the tripod above, any more unnecessary movement and pressure to try and pull him out could snap the remaining metal fibres completely, which would lose the ability to keep him connected to the tripod. Now stuck and feeling the looming pressure
and weight of the material around his torso, not to mention the pain from his shovel being pinned against his knee, time was of the essence to get him out safely and quickly.
Enjoying a relaxing day off, Capt. Mike Black received the call regarding the situation. Black, who was the team coordinator of LFD’s technical rescue team, responded along with members of his off-duty platoon. They were joined by the on-duty crew of Rescue Two for the response. Upon arriving on scene and recognizing how intricate the rescue would be, Black “ordered all conveyors and augers operating within 100 meters shut off and locked out”; one of the biggest fears in silo rescues is vibration that can cause the material to shift and collapse. For Efrain, now lodged in the
narrow part of what was an hourglass because he fell into an air pocket, and uncertain if he would continue to sink, any additional vibration could place him in further danger.
After setting up their own tripod and rope system, one of the technical rescuers was carefully lowered down to secure Efrain and assess the situation. Confirming that a huge slab of concrete loomed over top of Efrain, the LFD had yet another anomaly to contend with. The situation was direr than originally anticipated: surrounded by powder and chunks of cement like boulders of rock, all materials that surrounded Efrain were unstable and, without warning, could subside, unleashing an avalanche of material.
There is a saying when doing an activity: when you miss three steps, there is a higher probability of something unforeseen and unplanned happening. Take, for example, tying up your shoes. It’s so automatic that we can do it with our eyes shut. That is the power that stems from our long-term memory – it becomes automatic. However, taking three steps away from the automatic memory of the activity, usually because of some form of distraction, can take us completely off track. An article written in the National Library of Medicine supports the importance of keeping distractions out for patient safety. The article, although written for the hospital setting, still rings true for the importance of clean distrac-
14 hours
Having endured the entire 14-hour emergency from start to finish, Efrain had nothing but gratitude for the efforts and technical expertise of the firefighters who responded to his situation.
tion-free environments. “Distractions and interruptions include anything that draws away, disturbs, or diverts attention from the task at hand, forcing attention on a new task at least temporarily. Attending to the new task increases the risk of error with one or both of the tasks because the stress of the distraction or interruption causes cognitive fatigue, which leads to omissions, mental slips, and mistakes. [Distractions and interruptions] affect prospective memory, that ability to remember to do something that must be deferred.” Multi-tasking is immensely powerful, especially when working in a complicated environment/scenario, just as the LFD faced. There was looming pressure that resulted from both technicality and time.
To help ensure there are minimal distractions and interruptions, the fire service industry uses checklists in the form of our Standard Operating Guidelines to keep us on track. On that day in August 2004, the LFD relied on three of them.
A fire department’s Standard Operating Guidelines provide the steps needed for a particular activity. But when you have three specialties working simultaneously, operations must be done slowly and methodically to ensure no steps are missed. This is where the co-author of this article, Capt. Ken Gaskin, comes in. Capt. Black felt he needed to make entry of the silo to assist the technical rescuer and passed command to Gaskin to ensure everything remained methodical and
“Distractions and interruptions include anything that draws away, disturbs, or diverts attention from the task at hand, forcing attention on a new task at least temporarily. Attending to the new task increases the risk of error with one or both of the tasks because the stress of the distraction or interruption causes cognitive fatigue, which leads to omissions, mental slips, and mistakes.”
precise in execution. As fatigue began to set in, there was the possibility of making errors, and many lives were at stake. All rope harnesses, carabiners, and personal protective equipment needed to be checked and re-checked before personnel could be lowered into the silo. Even the tripods themselves, one hooked up to Efrain and the other to the technical rescuers, needed to be reassessed with each lowering and hauling back up. Regardless, it was tiring and essential to do so many checks. The success of the operation depended on them.
The team was informed that an industrial vacuum truck was available. The truck would be used to help suck out some of the material that surround Efrain. Having a small diameter tube attached to a pike pole worked well for dust and gravel-sized concretions but posed a bigger problem for sucking up the larger chunks of solidified cement, which required constant unplugging.
The technical rescuers reassured Efrain every chance they got, even if it was just a pat on the head signalling that everything was going to be ok. Having endured the entire 14-hour emergency from start to finish, Efrain had nothing but gratitude for the efforts and technical expertise of the firefighters who responded to his situation.
Firefighters everywhere adapt and overcome daily, but for the LFD, their expertise, endurance and training were tested in one of the biggest rescues the region faced, and they were successful because they never skipped a step.
References
1. Grissinger, Matthew. “Sidetracks on the Safety Express.” National Library of Medicine. Accessed at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/ articles/PMC4357347/.
From hire to retire
By Arjuna George
has transitioned his leadership and resilience expertise into coaching and consulting for the fire service community. Connect with him at silverarrowco.com or via arjuna@silverarrowco.com.
Bridging the gap between tradition and technology in firefighter training
In an ever-evolving fire service, training that resonates across age groups has never been more crucial or complex. Methods must adapt to meet today’s firefighters’ diverse expectations and learning styles. So how can you bridge these generational gaps with inclusive training?
Understanding the landscape
1. Baby Boomers (1946-1964) value experience, hierarchy and tradition. This generation typically benefits from structured, instructor-led approaches emphasizing reliability and consistency.
2. Generation X (1965-1980) is known for their adaptability and independence, and they appreciate practical training. They usually thrive with hands-on workshops, task-based assignments, and technology integration for efficiency.
3. Millennials (1981-1996) are a techsavvy generation that responds well to collaborative, interactive and multimedia-driven training that directly applies to their roles.
4. Generation Z (1997-present) are the digital natives who expect rapid access to information. They thrive on microlearning, social media integration and on-demand training content.
The right content
Offering a hybrid model is crucial for success these days. Combining classic classroom and hands-on training with newer formats like social media microlearning and virtual reality will lead to a balanced approach. Here are fundamental principles to guide this idea: Practical relevance: Tailor the training to the current challenges faced by the entire crew. For instance, if structural firefighting is a common thread, use case studies and role-playing to illustrate practical applications. Motivation and
learning are far more powerful when firefighters see tangible reasons for training.
Core values and safety: Emphasize fundamental values like safety and teamwork, while incorporating specific generational appeals like technological proficiency for younger members and reliability for older ones.
Leadership and mentorship: Leverage the strengths of each generation. Veterans can mentor newcomers, while younger members can share their tech skills, fostering mutual respect and learning. We have a diverse fire service that is so rich in talent and experience that it is in our best interest to capture all points of view and foster a collective of knowledge far more significant than any one generation alone.
Delivering training that resonates
Blended learning: Offer a mix of handson training with digital resources. Older generations may prefer structured classroom sessions, while younger members can engage with online modules.
Microlearning: Provide training in bite-sized modules via mobile apps or an internal knowledge platform. This allows members to learn at their own pace.
Social media integration: Create a private social media group or utilize exist-
ing platforms to share training tips and short instructional videos, and promote knowledge exchange. This resonates with Millennials and Gen Z while providing a collaborative space for all ages.
Gamification: Introduce quizzes, badges and leaderboards as an engaging way to track progress. This strategy combines competitive spirit with learning and appeals to multiple generations.
Inclusive engagement strategies
• Feedback loops: Regularly collect and implement feedback from all members on training needs. This reinforces inclusion and allows for adaptations that meet evolving demands.
• Cross-generational teams: Pair different generations on training projects to encourage mutual understanding and skill sharing.
• Accessible language: Avoid jargon specific to any generation and provide clear instructions that resonate with everyone.
Bridging the generational divide in firefighter training requires a strategic blend of tradition and innovation. By understanding and respecting each generation’s unique strengths and learning preferences, we can create training experiences that resonate across age groups while unifying our crews. Embrace technology, leverage social media, and honour the wisdom of experience to build a future-ready firefighting force where every member feels valued, heard, and empowered to serve at their best.
We are entering a new territory where technology evolves faster than the fire service. Staying abreast of what each generation needs to thrive will be crucial going forward. This hybrid training model can help every firefighter succeed and ensure a more resilient team overall.
Arjuna George (Fire Chief, Ret.)
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