Remembering Firefighter John A. Nicosia - Paterson Fire Department (NJ)

It was approximately 05:54am on January 17, 1991, when the City of Paterson Fire Department (NJ) responded to a structure fire at Underground II clothing store at 161 Main Street, which was formerly the Meyer Brothers Department Store. Due to strong winds, fire rapidly spread through the stores on that city block. Firefighter John A. Nicosia of Engine 4 entered the structure with his crew to begin hose advancement and fire suppression, but failed to exit with them when they were driven out by high heat and smoke. 

According to the United States Fire Association, "the fire spread to a second building and there was a minor blow-out of windows and a large ball of fire". 

When roll call and head count was taken after the evacuation it was determined that Firefighter Nicosia was missing. Crews immediately began searching for the missing firefighter and it wasn't until they found Firefighter Nicosia's body two days later in the basement of the initial structure. 

Firefighter John Nicosia passed away from asphyxiation after being trapped in the basement.  

The line of duty death brought important safety changes to the City of Paterson Fire Department such as the implementation of nylon hose lines, Nomex hoods, a name tag and a PASS device for all firefighters. 

We Remember…

Firefighter John A. Nicosia, age 29, Paterson Fire Department

Influencing Organizational Culture

The fire service is loaded with leaders up and down the chain of command and many great leaders are those working on the front lines of the job each day. The senior firefighter, the driver, any one of them has the potential to be a leader but most importantly an impactful leader. Oftentimes, it's easy to mistake rank for leadership and as we know it is not mutually exclusive.

Real, true leaders do not demand orders or push rank but rather motivate and train those around them. In essence, leaders influence organizational culture to excel each member and the department for future success on and off the fire ground.

How does this happen? How does one influence organizational culture?

1. They observe. The old phrase of "listen more and talk less" is one of their best qualities. A hallmark of a true leader. Leaders learn more than just what needs to happen with the fine details of the job but how to influence and encourage their fellow firefighters behavior for success, boost morale and finds way to improve many processes of the company.

2. They take advantage of subcultures within the house. There will be cliques wherever you go and even in a firehouse. Yet exceptional leaders know how to utilize this area for team building. When firefighters train together, a bond is being built and leaders know when and how to build a very important bond in this job.

3. Cross-Train. Every firefighter has their own set of skills they are inherently good at and others that need work. Leaders will cross-train themselves with other firefighters to learn more about their roles and in turn learn more about them. The more we utilize other firefighters skill sets to the advantage of the department, the more successful the department it.

4. Take Ownership. The fire service is built on life lessons and many of these lessons will quickly humble even the most seasoned firefighter. Many departments have an accountability officer and an accountability system built into their SOPs to keep order and accountability of all firefighters working on an incident. Great leaders will take that system a step further and transition it into everything they do and those they work with do by holding each other to a standard of ownership for their mistakes and for their successes. Again, the fire service is a humbling place.

5. Humans. Leaders treat and speak to everyone with respect regardless of their emotions or how they feel about another individual. Showing respect to your fellow firefighter of any rank is a great example of influencing organizational culture in the department. No firefighter is greater than the crew or department.

Here are five ways we could influence organizational culture into the firehouse without overbearing the members of the house. Use these takeaways to subtly adapt the firehouse or crew to a culture of success all around.

Until next time, work hard, stay safe & live inspired.

Probie Projects: Things You Can Do

I’m a brand new firefighter. In my volunteer station at the rural edge of a mid-sized city in Ontario, Canada, our crew is about 19 strong. When I first started, I was brought into the station by my captain to have a look around and at my first practice, a good handful of people were really welcoming. Very specifically, I have a feeling of gratitude toward my station and department for taking a chance on me and I’ve used that feeling to measure against the things I’m doing to help out or ‘put back’ into the station what they’re investing into me.

I believe that’s the right way to think about this, too. The department, the station and the crew you’re assigned to is owed your attention and effort. Past the social graces that you should already be plenty aware of, I’d like to make specific mention of the work you should be focusing on as a new firefighter. 

And how dare I. 

Afterall, I just passed the first year of service to my station. That’s an important note because it means the following ideas are based solely on my experience. You may need to round out some of the talking points here to fit into your particular experience. Still, approaching your new position with the mindset that you are ‘in-service’ to the fire service itself is the right way to act.

That might be a bit bold. A strong statement - especially from the new guy. But from my stance in the back of the truck, these seats are worn in from generations of firefighters that built a foundation that I have the privilege of standing upon. That lineage depends on us to carry it forward. Further than forward, it requires us to build. 

Taking responsibility

My argument is predicated on the idea that you should actively take responsibility for your involvement in the fire service. During our recruit training, I was exposed to a keynote speech from Mike Dugan at FDIC. His word rung through me and continue to help urge me toward the best possible output I can put forward. 

“Are you making a difference? If not, why not?”

Mike Dugan

You are responsible for improving the fire service. That responsibility adds weight to the metaphorical bar, and that’s okay. We should ask for opportunities to add to our sacred craft. 

Assuming the role of a firefighter who is invested in the trade will put you into an uncommon position. Where most people share little concern about their job, firefighters stand apart. We are not most people. 

Accepting the responsibility for making things better will mean there is more work to be done. It will place you into a category of people that ask for more even when the load is heavy to begin with. To accept that burden, a stalwart mindset must match the ability to take on more - make sure you’re prepared to work. 

Build something to learn

Using the word ‘something’ in this context is wildly open. I was lucky enough to be pinned into a station that allowed me to attend the hall to train whenever I wanted. That enabled me to get out there once my family had retired for the night and train things like SCBA donning, knots, medical rehearsal and most importantly learning the trucks. 

When I attended a station practice that would have us stretching a couple lines, I was mightily confused by putting the triple-layer load into real-world practice. Or, specifically, I had a hard time repacking it. I had a good idea behind the principle, but getting all that hose back on the bed gave me a real mental hiccup in the field. I recognized this and knew I had to act.

I had a few boxes kicking around, but I needed something to emulate a hose. A local craft store had rolls of 2 inch webbing and I figured that would be good enough. I cut a long length into two pieces. After taping one end into the ‘bed’ I rigged up inside the box, I tied a water knot with the other end to connect the two lengths together. In one way, this let me drill the water knot, in another it stood in place as a coupling in my miniature hose so I could practice staging it correctly when packing the hose. 

Attending the station with my staple tea and IFSTA manual, I used this little prop to pack a variety of loads with no stress in a comfortable environment. That process allowed me to really understand the different loads not only from my course manual but from the trucks in our bay. Even as I write this, it would probably be a good idea to mock this up again - just to stay sharp.

Learn the trucks

Perhaps your most valuable skill on the first few nights you’re called out will be a rich understanding of your trucks. These rolling tool boxes have all kinds of compartments to tuck in the gear we need to do the job. Though you might not be called upon to operate those devices, you can make yourself an expert in their procurement on the scene. 

For one month, I set about documenting every single compartment - from the glove box to the back step auto-ex gear - on our pumper. It began as a chicken-scratch chart in my station drills notebook.

You have a station drills notebook, don’t you?

Over a few evenings, I had a detailed list of every nook on that truck. Through the course of that activity, I found a few things I’d had no idea were tucked in behind gas cans or flare boxes. A truly valuable exercise in discipline and attention to detail, memorizing your trucks can be a time-saving skill during a call.  

To take this project one step further, you could formalize this process for recruits that follow in your footsteps. To build on the foundation set under your own feet by the firefighters that packed these compartments when the truck first rolled into its spot in the bay. 

Take your handwritten note and type it into a document. Take pictures and label them to make the document easier to follow than a simple list. Print that out and store it in your locker or - if you’re lucky and the station leadership permits - with the rest of the inventory documentation. You can take the digital copy and archive it into a repository, too - because this won’t be the last thing you type up for the station and a digital backup of your hard copy is a great thing to append to an email if a recruit in the future has questions about the truck.

When you accept the call, you are different from the person you were. There are things that need done now - not only because it’s the right thing to do, but because you owe that to the people who set the stage for your career. There is a standard to meet and with it, a weight of responsibility most people can not attend to. You were invited into this uniform because you volunteered. Showing up isn’t enough.

About the Author

Bill Dungey is a probationary volunteer firefighter in Brant, Ontario, Canada. He is focused on fitness, mindset development and finding training opportunities to help the fire service make things better.

The Wedge can be downloaded from https://timeandeffort.ca

Anger Management and First Responders

Anger management. Yes, it’s the title of a movie starring Adam Sadler and Jack Nicholson, but it is also a big problem in our society. Do a Google search for “Anger Management” and you’ll get over 262,000,000 hits. Most of these sites don’t have anything to do with the movie.

Anger is a natural emotion. It can be a healthy emotion to express. In the work environment however it is a hard emotion to process. Working in a time sensitive and at times dangerous industry only increases the likelihood of anger increasing on the job. Emergencies, equipment failures, and a variety of personalities on a scene can combine to make for one very frustrating and anger-filled environment.

Left unexpressed, anger can internalize and cause physical problems. Repressed anger can come out in passive aggressive behavior, depression, or in a negative outlook of life in general.

The key is to express anger in a constructive manner. Too many individuals channel their anger in destructive ways. When I was growing up we referred to it as the “kick the dog theory.” This theory basically said a person who gets in trouble with a boss in the work place can’t voice their anger at the boss. Instead they go home and for no reason kick the dog – definitely not the way to handle anger and frustration!

If you have an encounter in the work place and feel yourself getting angry you do have options in how you respond. We can’t always control what is happening around us, but we can control our reactions to what is happening.

Your options include learning how to express your anger in a manner that does not harm yourself or another person. These options take practice.

• Count to ten. It sounds like a cliché, but there are studies to back this practice up. When we’re angry, we use the emotional side of our brain. This is where the “four letter words” reside. Taking a minute to count to ten before you speak will bring you back into the rational side of your brain. The counting method also gives us sometime to calm down and is a distraction from what we reacted to.

• Sleep on it. While related to the first suggestion, this advice applies to situations when a decision is announced and your first reaction is anger. Allowing a little time between the announcement and your reaction can help by allowing all the facts to be presented. We often get angry first and discover later our fears never materialize.

• Write out your response. Sometimes it helps to write everything down. All the things you want to say but don’t feel you can. This is the version you keep in a private place or shred later. Write down all your thoughts, including the things you’d never say out loud to someone, then move to a more rational approach. Write down why or what upset you. Then write down how you can resolve the problem (remember you can’t harm yourself or others!)

• Exercise – We often feel an an adrenaline rush along with the feeling of anger. This is related to the fight or flight response. Taking a walk, or more strenuous exercise, can help your body process the rush you felt during the encounter,

In some cases the pattern of anger has gone on for so long, outside counseling is needed to help you live a healthier life. Your friends and family will also give you clues that you need help. Taking that first step can be scary, but well worth the rewards.

If you are a member of a faith community the clergy person may be a good resource for referrals. They can also offer practices within the framework of your faith system of how to work through anger. The American Psychological Association has a very helpful information on their web site about anger management, what it is, how to deal with it and when to seek outside help.

Additional reading:

What your Anger May be Hiding

Anger Management: Understanding Anger

Science of Anger: How Gender, Age and Personality Shape This Emotion

To learn more and for more information please visit: https://dorielgriggs.com/

About the Author (via LinkedIn Profile):

After a career in various public relations and marketing positions in college and professional sports and the hospitality industry, Dorie L. Griggs attended Columbia Theological Seminary, where she earned her Master of Divinity degree in 2002.

During her final year at Columbia, Dorie developed a model of chaplaincy for journalists who cover traumatic events. She has served as a volunteer with the Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma, an organization founded by Dr. Frank Ochberg, MD. She is the Chaplain for the Roswell, GA Fire Department.

Dorie served as the Communications Manager for the nonprofit, Faith And The City, from 2002-2004. In that capacity she produced the award-winning interfaith dialogue cable TV program, Faith And The City Forum.

She is the author of a self-care advice column for newspaper journalists, One-On-One, which appeared in the e-Letter of the Southern Newspaper Publishers Association in 2003-04.

Dorie completed a year as a chaplain resident through the clinical pastoral education (CPE) program at the Atlanta VA Medical Center in June of 2015. During her time at the VA Dorie received recognition for her work on the Surgical ICU team with the DAISY Team Award. She now serves on the Professional Advisory Group for the Office of Chaplain services at the AVAMC.

In April of 2014 Dorie was named the 2014 Pioneer in Ministry Award recipient by Columbia Theological Seminary in appreciation for her ministry of presence with journalists and for her support of parents of Citadel cadets. Read more here.

Memberships and organizations past and present: Parent Committee Chair, Atlanta Citadel Club; The International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies; The Ochberg Society for Trauma Journalism; a commissioned Stephen Minister and founding chair of the Military Ministry at Roswell Presbyterian Church; she was a committee chair for the Citadel Family Association, a support group for parents with cadets at The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina. She is entering her 26th year as a press box volunteer with the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl in Atlanta.

Her background in traumatic stress studies as well as being a Level II graduate of the Jeff Justice Comedy Workshoppe has helped her in her role as mother to 3 children: Nelson, a 2011 graduate of The Citadel, who recently left the Army as a captain in the U.S. Army, and is now working in Dallas, TX; Taylor the family comedian and bartender; and Chelle (pronounced Shelley) the actress of the family. Dorie is married to Stanley Leary, a freelance photographer.

You can contact Dorie here: dorie@dorielgriggs.com

Avoid Exhaustion through Healthy Eating

Exhaustion and burn out are common in all jobs. It's inevitable not to feel exhausted or burnt out from time to time and that's OK. Exhaustion can begin long before the end of shift or the end of your day. Again, that too is OK. When thinking about it and looking at the cause, is it because of the workload? Personal issues? Health? Let's look at the latter. 

As they say, "you are what you eat" and that is in fact true. We can work out all we want. We can lift weights, do bodyweight exercises, cardio, train in our PPE and still feel burnt out and exhausted. Why is that? Simply, it's our nutrition. What we eat has a direct relation to our energy levels and our diet plays a large role in how we produce energy to function through our day.

If in doubt, ask yourselves these 2 questions: 

1. Do I have the right amounts of food in my diet?

2. Am I consuming a diet filled with enough nutrients?

By choosing the right nutrients to consumer in our diets will greatly impact how we maintain and keep energized throughout the day.

Nutrient Dense Foods

Focus on consuming lean meats, whole grains, healthy fats, and lots of fruits and vegetables. Two key nutrients known to help the body produce energy are Magnesium (also good for headaches) and vitamin B. These 2 nutrients can be found in foods such as spinach, avocados, and bananas.

Regularly Eating

Eating small meals every 3-4 hours (if possible) will help in fueling our metabolism and keeping you energized and full.

It starts with Breakfast

Having a nutritious breakfast consisting of healthy proteins (eggs, chicken, almonds, lean meats, etc.), complex carbs (longer to breakdown and provides lasting energy levels such as oats and wheat) with some fruits and vegetables will fuel your body and mind to begin your day properly.

Smart Snacking

Snacking is good if it's done wisely. Nutritious snacking should contain lean protein and fiber-rich carbohydrates to provide lasting energy. Have an apple, nuts, seeds, carrots, or low fat Greek yogurt. Snacks are not intended to fill you up, but to simply bridge the gap from one meal to the next while keeping you energized.

Hydrate

When we feel like we need energy, it's easy to pick up and energy drink or coffee. However, most caffeinated drinks are filled with added sugars which could cause a spike in blood sugar levels and add to a mid-late day crash. Further, dehydration plays a role in fatigue and exhaustion. Swap in the sugary drinks for water and eliminate the added sugars and unwanted/needed calories.

Keys to Hydrations

Hydration varies from person to person. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate daily fluid intake is:

About 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids for men

About 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women

These recommendations cover fluids from water, other beverages and food. About 20 percent of daily fluid intake usually comes from food and the rest from drinks. Remember, proper nutrition throughout the day will assist in daily hydration. Some examples of foods for hydration are watermelon & spinach (almost 100% water by weight)cucumber, broths/soups and herbal teas to name a few.

The next time you're in need of a boost or a quick pick me up consider the options mentioned above on shift or at home. The more nutritious foods we put in our bodies the better we are able to perform.  Stay ready instead of have to get ready. It starts with you. 

Until next time; work hard, stay safe & live inspired.

Prepare to Perfrom

We are only as good as our last performance but we are also only as we prepare ourselves to be. Preparation begins long before the call comes in. It even begins before any preplanning is done and crew training. It's done, with one's own self. It's called knowing your job and performing it as if it's the championship game each time you're working. Each firefighter is responsible for their assignments and should know their job better than anyone else. On the flipside, each member of the crew should know their fellow firefighters responsibilities just as well as their own. Without knowing and understanding your role and roles around you even knowing the role above you, success is much harder to achieve and days with lower manpower will impact the rate of success.  

Some will say strategic planning is something for the command and company officers to worry about. I disagree, this is something each firefighter needs to be thinking about in some capacity. Without it, responsibilities cannot be done as efficiently and voids cannot be easier filled. When looking at this in a sports perspective, the great dynasty teams all had one common denominator, great preparation and an understanding of each other's roles. If we take the New England Patriots who won 3 Super Bowls from 2014 until now went by the mantra "Do Your Job" which stood for one thing, know your responsibilities better than anyone else on the field and understand the big picture that is looking to be achieved. By doing this, success will come. The same goes for the fire service. The more each member of the crew knows and the better they prepare, the easier a day on the fire ground becomes.

Here are a few steps on how to prepare to perform.

1. Know your role and own it. Be able to understand and explain to others the ins and outs of your role clearly. 

2. Know and understand the other responsibilities of your crew. This helps become multi-dimensional and can easily back fill other roles should there be a short staff or other circumstances that may arise.

3. Consistently train on your responsibilities and rotate through training on other responsibilities as well. By doing so, it bridges any gaps and helps develop a more unified crew. Example using engine company ops: On a 4 man engine, there's an officer (assumes back-up role), driver, nozzle firefighter and control firefighter (also assumes hydrant duty).  This is a prime example of how firefighters are responsible to one role and yet assumes another role. Continually practice in such roles plays dividends when it is used in the field. 

• Use your resources such as google maps to get aerial views, side views and street views of buildings you want to have specific plans for and even use it for the frequent flyers. Never take anything for granted.

• Develop a plan and train on it consistently and then develop contingencies and train on those. 

• Ensure all crew members understand the strategies and tactics and can clearly explain them. This helps show everyone is clear on the assignments. 

Preparation is key to successful fire ground performance. How you prepare is how you perform. Train accordingly.

Until next time; work hard, stay safe & live inspired.

The Social Media Fire Service

In today's world, almost everything is accessible with the press of a button with many of today's arguments behind a keyboard or smartphone finding faults or flaws in what others do or say. As the world changes, the fire service changes. Experience, response area demographics, training and years on the job all play a part in our individual wealth of knowledge and while many share this, others seems to want to tear it down. Is it for personal gain? Or is simply to hide their own insecurities?

There's a growing trend across the world and in the fire service world, called the "Social Media Warrior" trend. Many of you may recall this as being the "Monday Night Quarterback" before the dawn of social media where we'd sit around the firehouse kitchen table, in the bays or day room and critique other departments calls we buffed or heard from a scanner but in any sense, the term has evolved into a worldwide social media trend on all aspects. Nowadays, everything we do and say has potential to be posted on social media for all to see. Sometimes it's good. Sometimes it's bad. 

The fire service has seemed to have been a victim of the social media warrior, as many firefighters sharing training tips, fire departments posting pictures (with reason) of scenes they've worked on find themselves at the hands of a keyboard warrior critiquing their training and operations without adding any valuable insights or takeaways. Granted no one is going to ever please everyone -- I get it but what I'm saying is there's always a time and place for negative banter and social media commenting in my opinion, isn't one of them.  

Is this benefiting the culture of today's fire service? Or is this a hindrance to its growth?

As a fire service family regardless of status (career, volunteer, per diem, etc.) we are all privileged to do this job and should live by that notion to not only improve ourselves but assist in the improvement of the firefighters around us. It's one thing to point out others flaws and assist in correcting them but it's another thing to point out those same flaws to mock them. 

The fire service is known for traditions of honor, commitment and loyalty, to name a few and as such, paying it forward is the best way to keep those traditions alive and avoid bringing downs others.

Until next time; work hard, stay safe & live inspired.

The Engine Company Chauffeur

Arguably one of the most critical assignments in the fire service is transporting firefighters to and from a call…safely. The firefighters in the back of the cab and the officer riding next to you rely on you to get them there safe and sound. Further, should this be the engine company chauffeur they rely on you to provide them water during fire suppression. Not only do these brother and sister firefighters rely on you, so does the other crews responding as well, the IC, the people who called for help and above all the families of yourself and your crew your chauffeuring to the call. If you want to be a chauffeur or are currently one here's a few tips I've learned and utilized when driving the engine.

1. Know your apparatus inside and out. Knowing where tools are, how to operate all equipment and how to maintain the apparatus go a long way. This tells the crew you're confident in your job and can support them while they're at work should anything go bad.
2. Know your district. Knowing your district shows the difference between a "driver" and a "chauffeur". One is someone who is simply driving the firefighters and apparatus to a scene while the other is knowing the inner circle of the role and making it their livelihood.
3. Drive with a purpose but drive safely. There's no rush to get there, take your time but be alert. Just because there's lights and sirens doesn't mean everyone else will move over or see you. Follow all traffic laws to ensure a safe arrival to the scene and back.
4. Know your hydrant locations or have a good understanding of where they might be. This will help with establishing a water supply quickly. Also, with today's modern technology, a lot of departments have tablets with maps showing hydrant locations. Take a look at them so it isn't a scramble while enroute.
5. Know your place. Proper engine apparatus is vital and should be passed the building leaving room for the first due truck. Also, this helps the officer and firefighters going in to see 3 sides of the structure for size ups and fire attack purposes.
6. When on scene, ensure a secure water supply is properly in place.
7. Ensure cross-lay is fully flaked out of the hose bed or static lay is connected.
8. Monitor the radio for instructions from the engine company officer to charge the line(s)
9. Monitor the radio for all radio traffic. This will help assist the IC should any urgent messages be missed.
10. Secondary eyes. Perform a size up of your own and as conditions change let the IC know. Remember, the IC is one person and can only see so much, as a first due engine this is a way to assist with valuable information to help crews on the fire ground.
11. Monitor the panel. Communicate water and fuel levels to the IC as they change.

It may be a lot of tips but this role calls for a lot of work, effort, knowledge and leadership. Remember, for that call, that shift, that moment, all trust and reliability relies on you. It's your apparatus and the trust is all in you. Get them there safe.

Until next time; work hard, stay safe & live inspired.

About the Author

NICHOLAS J. HIGGINS is a firefighter with 18 years in the fire service in Piscataway, NJ, a NJ State certified level 2 fire instructor, a State of New Jersey Advocate for the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation and is the founder/contributor of the Firehouse Tribune website. A martial arts practitioner and former collegiate athlete in baseball, Nick is also a National Exercise & Sports Trainer Association Battle Ropes Instructor, Functional Fitness Instructor and Nutrition Coach. He holds a B.S. in Accounting from Kean University, and a A.A.S in Liberal Arts - Business from Middlesex County College. Nick has spoken at the 2017 & 2018 Firehouse Expo in Nashville, TN as well as at numerous fire departments within NJ and fire service podcasts.

The Back Up Firefighter

As a firefighter riding in the engine we all want to be on the nozzle, fighting the fire head on, producing a solid fire attack to the fire and getting cheers from our fellow firefighters for a quick solid knock. However, not everyone can always be the nozzle man and get to be face to face with the fire. Sometimes we need to be the backup or the setup man if you will. It's not pretty or glorified but in this line of business someone has to do it and at one point in time many of us get that assignment. The assignments may be cumbersome but a solid, ready to fight backup firefighter is critical to a successful and aggressive interior fire attack.  

As the old saying goes, "the fire goes as the fire line goes" and without an experienced backup firefighter, the advancement, fire suppression and a long day at the office will prevail; not to mention a not too happy nozzle man. 

Here's a few tips every backup firefighter on the line should consider.

   1. Ensure there are no kinks in the line, especially the first 50 feet behind the nozzle. Kinks will be detrimental to a sufficient fire flow and delay hose advancement.
2. Hit the hydrant and establish a water supply to the engine. If there is a short crew, this may be the job of the backup firefighter. Ensure your hydrant skills are efficient and ready to go. Timing is everything.
3. Force the door. If the engine is first on scene, ensure the line is stretched and be prepared to possibly force the door if needed.
4. Search off the line. Perform a primary search if no truck company is in place yet. 
5. If needed, be the second or third set of eyes and ears for the nozzle man. Watch the fire's behavior and carefully monitor conditions in the room and update the nozzle man and officer if there's a sense conditions are deteriorating and a flashover and/or collapse is imminent.

If you're assigned as the backup firefighter get ready before the call comes in (physically/mentally)and ensure all PPE and equipment is ready to go. A successful fire attack is counting on it so get ready and stay ready.

Until next time; work hard, stay safe & live inspired.

About the Author

NICHOLAS J. HIGGINS is a firefighter with 17 years in the fire service in Piscataway, NJ, a NJ State certified level 2 fire instructor, a State of New Jersey Advocate for the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation and is the founder/contributor of the Firehouse Tribune website. A martial arts practitioner and former collegiate athlete in baseball, Nick is also a National Exercise & Sports Trainer Association Battle Ropes Instructor, Functional Fitness Instructor and Nutrition Coach.  He holds a B.S. in Accounting from Kean University, and a A.A.S in Liberal Arts - Business from Middlesex County College. Nick has spoken at the 2017 & 2018 Firehouse Expo in Nashville, TN as well as at numerous fire departments within NJ and fire service podcasts.

Dedication and Commitment

In order to be in the fire service, each person needs to have a level of dedication to the job and a level of respect for the job. A few years while training in marital arts I had the opportunity to train with a professional MMA fighter, who at the time was in the UFC. Currently, this fighter who I won't mention is now retired from active competition. During this time, I would only train on the techniques while at school I trained at 3 days a week. That was until I met and trained with this pro fighter who did train with former UFC Middleweight and Welterweight Champion Georges St. Pierre. While training with him, I learned tons of techniques, gain valuable tips and other tidbits of information I could use in competitions and also in other facets of my life especially as a firefighter. Along with the information he shared, he asked me one question. "How would I train if no one was watching?" He went on further to say, because we all want to put on a show when the cameras are on us. After that conversation, those words had me reevaluate my training to see if I had that same level of enthusiasm and dedication as I did when I was training by myself or with other people outside the MMA gym and off the baseball field. To be honest, it wasn't as fulfilling and once our training was over, that question changed my course and enhanced my personal wellbeing and dedication to my crafts. 

Why am I telling this story? Because just as a professional athlete will train with or without an audience, us too as firefighter should train. 

This fighter made mention that no matter where he was training he dedicated himself 100% each time he was in there. It didn't matter if the coaches were around or he was alone, he made sure it was everything he had for that session. Cellphones, selfies and social media were nonexistent to him while he was training and for obviously reasons, the work paid off and never took any of it for granted.

Since those training sessions, I took that advise and used it for myself as a firefighter and would like to share them with you. 

Dedicate yourself to the job in the firehouseand also when out of the firehouse. Utilize as many resources as you could to better yourself as a firefighter. Do not just attend certification courses at a fire academy but also read educational books (which my book shelf is now loaded with), understand the changes in the service and how you could adapt to them. To go even further, attend fire service conferences with or without departmental funding so you could attend seminars, see new advancements and network. Networking pay huge dividends when it comes to advancing yourself and gaining wealth's of knowledge from fire service leaders. Also, read and stay on top of NIOSH reports in order to understand the line of duty deaths and the findings reported after the investigations. Make your body your machine and develop a healthy lifestyle through physical and mental fitness along with proper nutrition for an optimal lifestyle worthy of the functionally fit firefighter. Always ask yourself, would you want YOU rescuing YOU? 

Fire doesn't care of your status, career, part time, per diem or volunteer so why should you train yourself as if it's a job I just need to get through to retirement or a volunteer gig I do as a hobby?

Think about why you started with in the first place. What made you sign up for this?

To be successful and dedicated to the fire service it takes hundreds of thousands of hours of dedication and commitment to the books, in the gym, in the firehouse and on your own time to be a battle ready, battled tested firefighter. The time to prepare isn't when the bell rings because then it's too late. To be battle ready is to always stay battle ready. 

Until next time; work hard, stay safe & live inspired.

About the Author

NICHOLAS J. HIGGINS is a firefighter with 17 years in the fire service in Piscataway, NJ, a NJ State certified level 2 fire instructor, a State of New Jersey Advocate for the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation and is the founder/contributor of the Firehouse Tribune website. A martial arts practitioner and former collegiate athlete in baseball, Nick is also a National Exercise & Sports Trainer Association Battle Ropes Instructor, Functional Fitness Instructor and Nutrition Coach.  He holds a B.S. in Accounting from Kean University, and a A.A.S in Liberal Arts - Business from Middlesex County College. Nick has spoken at the 2017 & 2018 Firehouse Expo in Nashville, TN as well as at numerous fire departments within NJ and fire service podcasts.

Re-Present Yourself to Represent Your Department

From the time we enter the academy to the time we are sworn in as firefighters, we are training to become a better version of ourselves. Even after we graduate and begin our time as a firefighter we are still training each and every day to improve ourselves to become a better version of ourselves but what about the department and community we serve? They say the name on the helmet represents the department and the name on the jacket represents who raised you. Well, what if the name on the helmet and the name on the jacket are not only being represented by you but your “re-presenting” those names through you? 

Think about that for a minute. The 2 names on your uniform are being “re-presenting” through you. The town, the communities and other agencies know the department on the helmet and may quiet possibly know the name on the jacket but it’s how the names are carried and “re-presented” that makes the difference. It’s easy to put the uniform on and go to work but it’s another thing to put the uniform on and go to work with humility, honor and respect. Ask yourself these questions when you’re “re-presenting” the names because this is how you are “re-presenting” your department and your name to others.

1. Am I respectful to my boss and my crew?

2. Am I humble?

3. Do I respect the job?

4. How do I want these names to be “re-presented” to my fellow firefighters and the community?

5. Am I training hard each and every day to improve myself mentality and physically?

6. Would I be able to lead myself?

Being a firefighter and wearing the uniform isn’t a right, it’s a privilege. A privilege many people wish they had and a privilege that can be taken away at any moment. Be conscious of how you act and speak when wearing any part of that uniform on and off duty, it’s showing how you present yourself and also how you are “re-presenting” the names on that uniform. So do a service to your department, the community you sworn to protect, your fellow firefighters who ride alongside you, your family and most importantly yourself and “re-present” them the way you would want someone to “re-present” you. 

Until next time; work hard, stay safe & live inspired.

About the Author

NICHOLAS J. HIGGINS is a firefighter with 17 years in the fire service in Piscataway, NJ, a NJ State certified level 2 fire instructor, a State of New Jersey Advocate for the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation and is the founder/contributor of the Firehouse Tribune website. A martial arts practitioner and former collegiate athlete in baseball, Nick is also a National Exercise & Sports Trainer Association Battle Ropes Instructor, Functional Fitness Instructor and Nutrition Coach.  He holds a B.S. in Accounting from Kean University, and a A.A.S in Liberal Arts - Business from Middlesex County College. Nick has spoken at the 2017 & 2018 Firehouse Expo in Nashville, TN as well as at numerous fire departments within NJ and fire service podcasts.

Blank Slate

This past year my wife and I were blessed to welcome the birth of our first child. For those who are parents know the thoughts that go through your mind; joy, excitement, nervousness, and worry just to name a few. The last 7 months have been the most amazing and important yet difficult time we’ve ever experienced.

Each day we watch our son grow, learn and take on life. He learns a little more and more about himself and us each day and us the same about him. The one thing I’ve noticed as he discovers life and becomes his own little person is his impressionable innocence. Everything he’s exposed to and everything he’s taught is absorbed like a sponge.

The same is true for those entering the fire service. New recruits come in as an empty slate who, for the most part don't know anyone or how anything works and will absorb everything they hear, see and read like a sponge. In order to keep the fire service family and brotherhood alive, it is upon us, the current generation to do our best to not allow any negative emotions or feelings towards a fellow firefighter and departmental policies be absorbed by the newer generations coming in. The best thing we could do is to look at the things we don't agree with and turn it into a positive remembering why we signed up for this job. Just like babies, new recruits are excited and have an eagerness to learn, grow and a hunger to prove themselves worthy of this job. So let's embrace the newer generations entering the fire service and show them that although there is downsides to what we do, we can always walk in with a smile on our face,  have an eagerness to learn and a willingness to always pay it forward with the hopes of developing the generations to come.

Until next time; work hard, stay safe & live inspired

About the Author

NICHOLAS J. HIGGINS is a firefighter with 17 years in the fire service in Piscataway, NJ, a NJ State certified level 2 fire instructor, a State of New Jersey Advocate for the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation and is the founder/contributor of the Firehouse Tribune website. A martial arts practitioner and former collegiate athlete in baseball, Nick is also a National Exercise & Sports Trainer Association Battle Ropes Instructor, Functional Fitness Instructor and Nutrition Coach.  He holds a B.S. in Accounting from Kean University, and a A.A.S in Liberal Arts - Business from Middlesex County College. Nick has spoken at the 2017 & 2018 Firehouse Expo in Nashville, TN as well as at numerous fire departments within NJ and fire service podcasts.

The Dance of Life

I'm sitting in my room, studying with an intensity I didn't know I had. It's the mid 1980's and I am in middle school. My mom and I had just moved from Philadelphia, PA to Augusta, GA for her first military assignment. It might as well be a different world. There aren’t any Philly cheesesteaks and sports teams that I’m used to seeing. Yet, in this very different place, there is one thing I feel connected to; the very thing I am so intently studying: Breakdancing.

Middle school is an age where I wanted to fit in and be cool. Being prolific in breakdancing isa ticket to coolness. I carefully read, and reread my beloved practice poster (yes, there is a practice poster for breakdancing). I watch and study MTV like a must-see webinar. And the movies! Oh, I watch every single one the day it is released. Now, I’m not really all that good. Dreamsof being a dancer on a rap video are just dreams. But I can spin around on my head and not get sent to the hospital. I work at honing these skills leading up to the next military assignmentthat my mom and I take to Belgium, then Germany. During my high school years, I find to secure the social life I want, I amgoing to need to learn different dances for different occasions. Sure, breakdancing is a great fit for house parties, but what about the Semi-formal winter dance or the Formal Prom. If I amgoing to get dates and not look like a fool, I am going to need to dabble in the right kind of dancing to move my social life along.

Advancing your career with training and education is a lot like learning the right dance. All of the dances are great, but serve a different purpose.

• Dances at the house party is down to earth, wild, sometimes crazy or zany. In your career, this equates to training in the fire service. The drills for new people. Improving the skills of tenured people. Working with other stations and units. There is a general way it should be done, but there is room for creativity.

• Semi-formal dances have a bit more structure. These are your conferences, conventions, 1-3-day trainings. Going to regional schools. Going to FDIC and FRI. They are home grown classes that may have originated at the fire station, but are now on a bigger stage.

• Formal danceshave set expectations for how the event is happening. Dress like this. Move this way. These include official college certifications and formal classes such as Fire Officer I. They take more time and have a set structure. That structure allows for your education to be comparable to others across the world. It helps to measure your investment. It helps to increase your creditability.

Just like my dance life, you will do the most good for yourself by attending all the dances. Over reliance on station training may mean not keeping up with best practices. Over reliance on college and other formal training classes will lead to understanding theory, and not practical application. You are advancing your fire service life; your fire service career. Be sure to take part in training and education in all three parts to be ready for the big dances that are coming. And you won’t need to spin on your head, either!

Ordinary People Have Extraordinary Impact.

About the Author

 NICK BASKERVILLE Nick has had the honor of serving in the United States Air Force for 10 years, followed by 4 years in the United States Air Force Reserves. He attained the rank of Technical Sergeant (E-6). Nick also has 18 years of fire service time, with 15 years of that being in a career department in Northern Virginia. Nick has had the opportunity to hold positions in the Company Officer's section of the Virginia Fire Chief's Association (VFCA), The Virginia Fire Officer's Academy (VFOA) staff, and as one of the IABPFF representatives to the Fire Service Occupational Cancer Alliance. Nick is one of the many trainers for Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) to offer awareness and prevention training about cancer in the fire service. Nick has the honor of being one of the many contributors for The Firehouse Tribune.

Building a Culture of Improvement

Recently, I had a conversation with a good friend of mine who has just been appointed chief of his department. I congratulated him on his promotion and also asked him about his outlook for the role and what he hopes to accomplish. He stated, he would like to bring the department closer together and instill the family values of the fire service back into this department. His one concern however, was dealing with some of the older firefighters already ingrained in their ways and continually use the term, "because that's how we always done it!" Well, for this chief who can relate in age to a few of these firefighters doesn't care about how it was always done. His mentality is "but was it done right?" In his mind, he's looking to not change how the department is operating but IMPROVE how they are operating and looking to do that through team building and acknowledgement of firefighters accomplishments.

After hanging up the phone, I left for the gym and started thinking about the talk we just had and thought, this is what it's all about. It's about improving yourself and instilling discipline. Change is all around us and everything is evolving each and every day especially in the fire service. Sometimes when we look at what someone is looking to do, when they are on their mission, we forget that we are all fighting the same fight and all have the same objectives to accomplish yet how it is done vary based on rank or assignment. As humans, in our minds we get turned off that someone is trying to CHANGE what we are doing but are they really trying to change it? Or are they trying to take what is already set up and IMPROVE it?

As we've seen for generations upon generations, there will always be generational gaps within people but we can also see that the blueprint that was laid out by older generations isn't being thrown away yet are still very well alive and kicking. This can be seen from the first strategies and tactics books written by Chief Lloyd Layman which isn't many pages to the numerous books today that are hundreds of pages. All of which is built off of a foundation laid out for us decades ago. So as the fire service is evolving, the tactics and decision making skills aren't changing but are evolving and so to the firefighters, we are evolving as well.

Here's my advice to you, find things you do each day in your life and as a firefighter that is very routine and find ways to improve them. Not change them but improve them. This can be anything from improving your time in donning your PPE, to improving your time hitting the hydrant so when it's time for the real deal you aren't going through the motions that might've taken you 2 minutes to do but now takes 1 minute or less. This is how things, even the small things, get improved. This is how we can develop a culture of improvement for everyone in the house to do the same and develop a healthy competition amongst members.

Until next time; work hard, stay safe & live inspired.

About the Author

NICHOLAS J. HIGGINS is a firefighter with 17 years in the fire service in Piscataway, NJ, a NJ State certified level 2 fire instructor, a State of New Jersey Advocate for the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation and is the founder/contributor of the Firehouse Tribune website. A martial arts practitioner and former collegiate athlete in baseball, Nick is also a National Exercise & Sports Trainer Association Battle Ropes Instructor, Functional Fitness Instructor and Nutrition Coach.  He holds a B.S. in Accounting from Kean University, and a A.A.S in Liberal Arts - Business from Middlesex County College. Nick has spoken at the 2017 & 2018 Firehouse Expo in Nashville, TN as well as at numerous fire departments within NJ and fire service podcasts.

Thank You for a Great 2018!

As 2018 comes to an end and we begin a new chapter in 2019, we would like to thank each and every one of our friends and supporters for all of the support and love they’ve shown us this year. It has been a great year as we’ve met with many new people and will continue to work along side them as we continue on our journey. 

We now embark on a new year. With a new year comes new challenges, new friends and new ways to keep our mission going. To all of those supporting us and following us, keep growing each and every day and continue to serve your community with honor, respect and humility. Remember those who have gone before us not just through words but through action. Challenge yourselves to achieve more and in that will come great success. 

Lastly, always remember to work hard, stay safe & live inspired.

From all of us here at The Firehouse Tribune, have a Happy, Healthy & Safe New Year. 

 - FHTribune Staff

You Have Just One Job

 "This shouldn't take too long." I'm not talking to anyone;that's just the thought in my head as I get ready to clean the bathroom today. On the first floor of my house there is a half bath that is just after the front door, on the right side. It's just close enough to the door that if you pull in to the parking space, Dukes of Hazzard style, and busted through the front door to use the bathroom, you can make it without an 'accident' happening. The bathroom needs cleaning. I go to work using an assortment of cleaners; being careful not to cause a hazardous environment needing 911. Now, it's time to mop. That is also the time things go in a new direction. I go to the hallway closet a few feet away on the other side of the hallway. I see a mop handle sticking up, but there is all this stuff in the way. I start cleaning the closet to get to the mop to clean the bathroom. I now have two bags of things to throw out, brooms and other floor cleaning devices neatly arranged, but no mop. A wide area search (of a townhouse, mind you) leads to finding the mop in another bathroom upstairs. To recap, I have cleaned the closet, to find and clean the mop, so I can finish cleaning the bathroom. But while cleaning the mop, I notice there may be a leak coming from the sink I used. So, after cleaning the closet to get the mop, I found and cleaned the mop, then found the leak, then cleaned up the water from the leak to clean the, uh…what was I supposed to be doing again?

At that moment, I see myself in a place I have been before. Perhaps you have found yourself in that same place. I have one thing on my mind to do. In the process of working on that one thing, I accomplish 3 or 4 other things. Never what I set out to do in the first place. Once I realize the situation I am in, it was easy to tell I didn’t use my focus habit.What habit do I use to keep my focus? The yellow sticky note habit.

People who have worked with me have seen and made fun of my yellow sticky note habit. I admit, it's definitely a little odd. I can't remember how I got started using it, but I've done if for a while. I take two 3-inch yellow sticky notes and stick them together back to back so the sticky parts are at opposite ends. Now I have a 3-inch paper that I can write on both sides. On only one side of the note, I write the date and everything I want to try accomplish that day. The rest of the day, the list resides in my pocket. Periodically for the rest of the day, I look at my list and see what I have done, and what I still need to do. Whatever I don't finish, goes on the list for the next day.

Time has taught me that the size of that paper doesn't allow me to put more on it than I can finish in one day. I stay focused, keep track of my progress, and I can evaluate if what I'm doing is more important that what is on my list. I use this at the station, at the office, and sometimes at home. I get laughs about my list at the station, at the office, and sometimes at home. I find that I am more efficient and productive at the station, at the office, and sometimes, at home.

My habit for staying focused may not be for you. It doesn't have to be. We all, however, need some way to keep focused on our intended tasks. Completing tasks, completes objectives. Completing objectives, completes goals. And completing goals is how ordinary people have extraordinary impact.

 About the Author

 NICK BASKERVILLE Nick has had the honor of serving in the United States Air Force for 10 years, followed by 4 years in the United States Air Force Reserves. He attained the rank of Technical Sergeant (E-6). Nick also has 18 years of fire service time, with 15 years of that being in a career department in Northern Virginia. Nick has had

the opportunity to hold positions in the Company Officer's section of the Virginia Fire Chief's Association (VFCA), The Virginia Fire Officer's Academy (VFOA) staff, and as one of the IABPFF representatives to the Fire Service Occupational Cancer Alliance. Nick is one of the many trainers for Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) to offer awareness and prevention training about cancer in the fire service. Nick has the honor of being one of the many contributors for The Firehouse Tribune.

Nick is also a member of the public speaking organization Toastmasters. He holds an Advanced
Competent Bronze (ACB) certification. He also tells personal narrative stories that have been featured
on shows for The Moth, Better Said Than Done, and Storyfest Short Slam. Follow more about storytelling
and public speaking for purpose at Story Telling On Purpose (www.stop365.wordpress.com)

The Engine Company Search

A critical role and sometimes often overlooked or undervalued is the engine company performing a search. Normally, the truck company is assigned to search and rescue operations however due to limited staffing in many departments across the country, it’s not surprising to be on a hoseline and performing a search (also, a value added role).

Before we can discuss ways to search off a hoseline, here are a few considerations for conducting search and rescue operations.

Questions to consider when determining search operations

1. What areas of the building are being determined as primary search areas?

2. Are there any factors or clues from the incident that are assisting you in determining which areas the search is to begin? (i.e. Possible victims, location of fire, type of structure etc..)

The Primary Search

1. Make it quick. This a quick attempt to remove victim or if on a hoseline, remove the fire and protect the victim.

2. Be quick yet thorough. Check all areas where victims may be even ones that are tenable and safe for a quick search.

3. Trust your senses. Use your eyes, ears and touch.

4. We carry in hand tools for a variety of reasons, use them. Using hand tools to extend your reach off the wall or off your partner can help extend the area of the search and cover more ground in less time. This is especially true for residential homes and small to medium size spaces.

As we just discussed the key points of a primary search, here are 2 ways we can search while operating off a hoseline.

2 Man Hoseline Search

One way the engine company can search a room is allowing the nozzleman into the search room while the backup completes a search of the room. In some instances, the officer and the backup are the same person. If this is the case, the nozzleman will guide the searcher through the room as if it was a quick oriented search. It is to be noted that the nozzleman should place themselves just inside of the doorway. This will allow the searcher a point of orientation and smoother hose advancement once the search of the room is complete. If this is the fire room, it will allow the searcher to move the victim to a safe place of refuge (if need be) while the nozzleman advances in and suppresses the fire.

3 or 4 Man Oriented Search

Same rules apply as if an oriented search was being completed by the truck company. However, this time the nozzleman will advance down the hallway between the adjunct room(s) allowing the searcher(s) and the officer (oriented person) clear access to the room(s). This operation must be predetermined prior to putting in place and practiced before use.  From here, the officer will monitor conditions of the room along with the location and status of the searcher. Searchers will use traditional search methods (right or left hand quick primary sweeps of the room). Once completed, the nozzleman and crew will advance.

Keys to remember when searching as an engine company

1. NEVER pass up fire!

2. Use the TIC to ASSIST the search. Never allow it to take OVER the search.

3. The search should be systematic and towards the fire

4. Communication of doorways AND victims are key

5. Chase and remove all kinks in the hose

Until next time; work hard, stay safe & live inspired

Discipline

We have all heard the word Discipline in many different ways through the course of our lives and careers. For those who listen to the Jocko Podcast know the worddiscipline to be used to explain freedom. As Jocko says, “Discipline Equals Freedom”. So what does discipline mean for us in the fire service?

Discipline can mean a lot ofdifferent things. It could mean an act to obey an order or a prescribed conduct/behavior. For me as a firefighter, discipline is doing the right thing even when it isn’t noticed by others and it also means always doing your job.

A disciplined firefighter is one that will take pride in his or her job at all times. This person will ensure they are alwaysmentally and physically ready for. They will make sure their uniform and gear is clean and ready to be worn when called upon. A disciplined firefighter will continually take pride in their job by washing the trucks and cleaning the station when needed. They will also tend to all the tools and equipment, ensuring they are clean, fueled, and 100% ready to go.

A disciplined firefighter will consistentlykeep training in many different ways. They will read books, articles, and do research on new tools, techniques, and advancements. They will also keep training their bodies physically to be fit for duty. They will make sure to set aside time for working out and eating right. For most, this will become a way of life and hopefully not just for them, but for their entire crew and family as well.

Perhaps most importantly a disciplined firefighter will share their knowledge and experiences with the younger members to instill a sense of pride and discipline into the new generation of emergency responders. This is critical because the younger generations look up to those of us who have been around for a long time. They tend to model their behavior and tendencies to that of the more experienced crew members. If we are sloppy, careless, and not disciplined they will also be. On the flip side, if we are squared away and disciplined they will be too.

When the bell goes off, everyone needs to know what is being asked of them and what their job is. When working on the fire ground everyone needs to work together to achieve the common goal of solving the problem presented. Being a disciplined firefighter will allow you to do your job efficiently so that everyone goes home.

Until next time; work hard, stay safe & live inspired.

 About the Author

 NICHOLAS J. HIGGINSis a firefighter with 16 years in the fire service in Piscataway, NJ as well as NJ State certified level 2 fire instructor and currently a State of New Jersey Advocate for the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation. A martial arts practitioner in Taekwondo, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai as well as a former collegiate athlete in baseball, Nick is also a National Exercise & Sports Trainer Association Battle Ropes Instructor, Nutrition Coach and studying for the Functional Fitness Instructor certification.  He holds a B.S. in Accounting from Kean University and is the founder/contributor of the Firehouse Tribune website.

What’s Black, White, Yellow and Red All Over?

Honestly, it is a pretty awesome flag. The Maryland state flag. It is a rectangle piece of cloth with the colors black, white, yellow, and red. I am accustomed to seeing flags with different shapes and colors. My time in the military has made travel around the world possible. It’s probably because I have been bombarded with so many flags, I typically don’t give them a lot of thought. Ironically, I didn’t come to realize the greatness of the Maryland flag by living in Maryland. I realized it by working in Virginia.More than a few times someone would ask, "Why do you Marylanders love that flag so much?" Another Maryland native would typically answer, "Because it awesome!"Honestly, he’s not wrong.

The Maryland flag is on every possible thing possible. EVERY. THING. Look for a Virginia flag helmet sticker. Can’t find it. A Maryland one? Twenty versions. The flag is on beach towels and coffee cups. It was on a plane from Southwest. A Plane! Although I don't completely identify with loving the Maryland flag, I get it. It's what it symbolizes. When a true Maryland native looks at the flag, he or she can smell the old Bay food seasoning. Taste the blue crabs. The roarof the cheering crowd at the University of Maryland games is deafening. Seeing the flag can take you to a great place for a person from the state of Maryland.

Everyone who encounters the Maryland flag can be broken up into three groups: 1) Diehards who value the flag highly, 2) People who don't fully get it, but think it pretty cool and 3) those who simply see it as a piece of cloth with colors. One symbol, three different views. All three views can be debated. As usual, none actually wins. Your interpretation of an object can be as different as the people who see it. So, what's the truth?

Unless you live under a rock, you know the US is having some major debates about flags. From the confederate flag to the American flag. There is nothing in this post that will ‘win’ the debate for one side or the other. Yet, in the workplace, in the fire service, or where ever one encounters groups of people will need get work together despite the version truth they see.

Pastor John Gray did a talk for Soul Sessions where he talked about “The Bridge”. A place where two people can meet even though they don’t agree with one another. “The Bridge”, is a safe place for thorny conversations to happen without major conflict. As a leader, or aspiring leader, are you creating bridges? If you have not experienced the following know that it is coming: people on your team will disagree viscerally about a topic, yet still need to work together. Using what I have seen on the smaller, more lighthearted matter of the Maryland flag, try getting your team, crew, office to go AOR:

• Accepting someone else’sbeliefs

o Accepting is not agreeing. It is just noting that another point of view exists. “Yes, I see that the Maryland flag means a lot for you. I don’t get it. But I value your point of view.”

• Open, but not rude about your belief

o I sometimes hear people say “I’m not trying to be rude, but…” Most times, people are looking for a way to not use tact when stating a point. This normally leads to bigger conflict. Instead, start off with “My perspective” or “My belief”. You are not judging some else’s thoughts, just stating your own

• Remembering what you came to do

o A contingent of people from my Virginia Fire Dept went to Ellicott City, MD to help with the flooding situation. I’m not there, but I’m willing to bet no one is judging the Maryland flag. No one is judging ANY flag. People are there to help the mission: get people out of harm’s way.Do you know your organization’s mission? Vision? Values? Successful groups should have individuals with some of these things in common. As a leader, you will need to remind peoplewhat is common among them. Get people to focus on the common mission, vision, and values instead of the different flags.

Flags are important symbols for people. They embody a great number of values. Evoke a great number of emotions. All of which can vary from person to person. As a leader, you will be tasked with taking people and uniting them not under one flag, but under one mission. Different people. Ordinary people…who will have an extraordinary impact.

About the Author  

 NICK BASKERVILLE has had the honor of serving in the United States Air Force for 10 years, followed by 4 years in the United States Air Force Reserves. He attained the rank of Technical Sergeant (E-6). Nick also has 18 years of fire service time, with 15 years of that being in a career department in Northern Virginia. Nick has had the opportunity to hold positions in the Company Officer's section of the Virginia Fire Chief's Association (VFCA), The Virginia Fire Officer's Academy (VFOA) staff, and as one of the IABPFF representatives to the Fire Service Occupational Cancer Alliance. Nick is one of the many trainers for Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) to offer awareness and prevention training about cancer in the fire service. Nick has the honor of being one of the many contributors for The Firehouse Tribune.

Nick is also a member of the public speaking organization Toastmasters. He holds an Advanced Competent Bronze (ACB) certification. He also tells personal narrative stories that have been featured on shows for The Moth, Better Said Than Done, and Storyfest Short Slam. Follow more about storytelling and public speaking for purpose at Story Telling On Purpose (www.stop365.wordpress.com)

When It Rains...

It's just another day at work. More things to do than time in the day. I'm at the fire station, making my way up the stairs to fit in what I can. Up the stairs, I make my way down the walk way and take the second left. I open the office door just to drop off my coffee cup. Training is about to happen and I don’t want to be late. I don’t turn on the light, at first. But what is that sound? It reminds me of running water? That doesn’t make sense. There is no water in the office.

I turn on the light and oh my, what a sight!One of the ceiling tiles looks more like a cloud instead of a part of the ceiling. It was full of water and beginning to rain down on the entire office. The air condition system is located in the ceiling, just above the office. I have heard stories of how it leaked before. I now have my own story.

As a new officer, I'm still working through the gut reaction to be in the thick of the problem. To get directly involved on fixing the problem hands-on. On this day, however, I activate a skill that have cultivated for years.A skill perfect for this situation. That skill?Ignorance.I understand what to do with a busted hose line. I understand what to do for a spill for muriatic acid. I know nothing about what to do for a leaky ceiling. I knew enough to know, however, that there was a problem. Even officers know water is not supposed to come from the ceiling. Sizing up the situation, I knew I need more resources. Downstairsare 2-3 firefighters who would know exactly what to do. I went downstairs and hustled back with a strike team of people to handle with the problem.

What did I do? I took two steps back and supported the plumbing strike team while they worked. I handed them a wrench when asked. I held the ladder when needed. I called the maintenance person for the long-term fix. As things are windingdown, the Battalion Chief stopped by. Chief’s seem to either have a 6th sense or hidden camera that tell them when to stop by the station."Where's the guy in charge?"All fingers point to me in the corner coordinating with the HAVAC vendor on when they can fix the problem.

Sometimes being in charge means letting the right people use their skill. Especially when you don't have that skill. I have learned something long ago that I have just managed to put into words. I don't have to be the smartest person in the room in order to lead the room. Let the ordinary people have the extraordinary impact.

 About the Author

NICK BASKERVILLE has had the honor of serving in the United States Air Force for 10 years, followed by 4 years in the United States Air Force Reserves. He attained the rank of Technical Sergeant (E-6). Nick also has 16 years of fire service time, with 13 years of that being in a career department in Northern Virginia. Nick has had the opportunity to hold positions in the Company Officer's section of the Virginia Fire Chief's Association (VFCA), The Virginia Fire Officer's Academy (VFOA) staff, and in the International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters (IABPFF) as a chapter president, a Health and Wellness committee member, and one of the IABPFF representatives to the Fire Service Occupational Cancer Alliance.