Attic Fire Tactics

Why not pull more ceiling and attack the fire with a straight stream?  This fog stream didn't put the fire out not sure what the point is.  This stream looks to me to never reach the seat of the fire.  What do you think?

Hydraulic Vent........

How is your department teaching hydraulic ventilation? Emphasize the power of the stream and how it can be used from far away.  Some of this video shows techniques of being close to the window in a compromising position where products of combustion are being drawn past you to get out the window this is not the best way to complete this task.  Practice this smooth bore technique it works awesome.  What do you think?

NIST Presentation Coming to Austin

Dan Madrzykowski with NIST is coming to Austin for a FREE 8 hour class. This class will cover recent NIST/UL studies, discuss recent local area fires, and end with a question and answer session.

Come see for yourself what it's all about. I guarantee you will leave with some new things to think about and the ability to form your own opinion. The online videos are great but seeing this in person with an opportunity to ask questions is much more powerful.

See below for registration links.

register for the September, 22nd Austin FSTAR Townhall event please visit: http://fstaratxsept22.eventbrite.com
To register for the September, 23rd Austin FSTAR Townhall event please visit: https://fstaratxsept23.eventbrite.com 

Rescue Chain Grades

Do you know the grades of the chains you carry? Are they rated for towing or overhead lifting? If you are unsure (like I was), read this quick write up by FS Mike Reush (18C). 

Nice work Reush!

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0e8eH2sjsatVkRvWFFxa2ZmTWs/edit?usp=sharing

Elizabeth firefighter's heroic rescue of woman

Interesting rescue anyone know more about this?  Watch the smoke change as we make openings.  What can we do to control that smoke or buy us time? I like the use of 2 ladders side by side also. 

San Bernardino Fire Attack

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=LMPRa8dMk1w

Good video to practice size up on. Look at the lack of smoke from the bside versus heavy fire from the front.

Machine Rescue Class

Here are a few pictures from a machine rescue class with E14, R14 and E6.