The Importance of Locating Building Systems During the 360

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Introduction

When firefighters arrive at the scene of a structure fire, their initial actions can determine the success of the entire incident. A critical step is conducting a “360-degree size-up”. Often noted as an issue in NIOSH reports for not being completed, it is a complete walk-around of the building to assess conditions on all sides. One task that should be completed during this procedure is the identification and understanding of building systems: utilities (gas, electric, water), fire protection systems, and HVAC equipment. Locating these systems can greatly impact safety, strategic decision-making, and operational effectiveness.

Understanding the 360 Size Up

The 360 is a fundamental practice in firefighting operations. Its purpose is to move beyond the limited perspective offered from the arrival side of the structure, allowing firefighters to observe crucial details that may influence tactics and safety. This process helps identify fire location and extension, building access and egress points, structural integrity, and occupants in need of rescue.

However, to maximize the value of a 360, firefighters must also seek out and identify building systems. These systems can present both hazards and resources, and the knowledge gained during this process may dictate the sequence and nature of tactical assignments.

Natural Gas Service

Locating Building Utilities

There may be lifesaving value in locating building utilities. Natural gas leaks or burning gas lines can cause catastrophic explosions or intensify a fire. Locating and shutting off the gas supply early could save lives and property. This applies to propane tanks in addition to natural gas. You may also notice a fill pipe indicating the presence of heating oil.

Electricity can energize metal components, elevator shafts, and standing water, presenting electrocution hazards. Knowing the location of the main electrical panel allows the building to be de-energized, reducing risks to both firefighters and occupants.[EH1] While isolating power can improve fireground safety, firefighters must proceed carefully when de-energizing systems due to potential arc flash risks and hazards from high voltages. In addition, emergency generators may continue powering the building, and unscheduled shutdowns can lead to equipment damage or product loss. Fire departments should have an SOP for safe power isolation or coordinate with facility staff to handle the process safely.

Natural Gas and Electric Meters

In some situations, it may be necessary to shut down or restore water flow to protect valuable infrastructure within the building.

Fast food restaurants often store liquid CO2 in cryogenic cylinders for carbonating fountain drinks, which present asphyxiation and thermal risks. Firefighters should know where these systems are and prepare pre-incident plans for their hazards.

Fire Protection and Suppression Systems

Many commercial, industrial, and multi-residential buildings are equipped with fire protection systems such as sprinklers, risers, standpipes, and fire alarm systems.

Fire Department Connection (FDC) and Fire Pump Test Header

Locating the fire department connection (FDC), sprinkler room, or standpipe risers is essential for supplementing water supply and controlling fire spread on upper floors or in remote areas.

Fire alarm panels can reveal the point of origin and current status of the fire alarm system, offering vital clues for search and attack crews.

Some buildings have chemical or gas-based suppression systems, which may require special handling or deactivation in the event of a fire. These systems may also be an indication of the presence of a specialty hazard or high value asset.

HVAC Systems

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can play a major role in fire behavior and occupant safety. Large HVAC units may contribute to fire spread, and their ductwork can channel smoke and heat throughout the building. Working with facilities personnel to control these units enables firefighters to control smoke movement and improve tenability for both rescuers and trapped occupants.

Large or multiple rooftop HVAC units can present a significant collapse hazard if the roof structure’s integrity has been compromised by fire exposure. It is essential that the presence and location of these units be promptly communicated to interior crews to ensure their safety and support effective incident management.

Energy Efficient Systems

Be observant for red labels or placards that indicate the presence of a solar energy system. Solar panels installed on rooftops may not be immediately visible if you are relatively close to a residential structure or if they are positioned on a flat-roofed commercial building. These systems can present significant hazards, including electrical shock, thermal risks, and potential structural concerns. Mitigation of these systems is a must.

Solar panels on roof of commercial building

Green roofs, characterized by vegetation covering the building's roof surface, present unique challenges for fire operations. These installations can contribute to elevated interior temperatures, pose potential collapse hazards, and complicate roof access and firefighting activities. Although explicit mitigation techniques are limited, it is essential for firefighters to be aware of the locations of green roof systems and to develop pre-incident plans that address the specific risks associated with these structures.

Green roof plantings noticeable at roof line

Incident Command and Tactical Decision-Making

The information gathered during a thorough 360 does not just benefit the first-in engine or truck company. It is central to the entire incident command system. Knowledge of building systems allows the incident commander to:

· Assign crews to secure utilities and building systems, eliminating or mitigating hazards.

· Develop safe points of entry and egress, accounting for building controls and barriers.

· Make informed decisions regarding ventilation, fire attack, and rescue priorities.

This intelligence is particularly vital in complex or unfamiliar buildings, where hidden hazards may not be apparent from the street.

Firefighter Safety

Firefighters can be injured (or worse) by electrical shock, gas explosions, or entrapment in buildings with unrecognized hazards. A disciplined approach to locating and controlling building systems during the 360 can dramatically reduce these risks. By proactively managing utility controls and system shutoffs, crews create a safer environment for themselves and the people they are protecting.

Planning and Training

While the 360 is an arrival assessment, its effectiveness is improved with pre-incident planning. Firefighters should be familiar with common utility and building system locations, especially in target hazards such as schools, hospitals, and industrial facilities. Training in understanding building plans, recognizing system components, and practicing system shutdowns makes the process quicker and more reliable under stress.

Conclusion

Locating building utilities during the 360 is an important step in fireground operations. It influences firefighter safety, operational effectiveness, and the ability to protect life and property. A culture of thorough, detail oriented size-ups - where building systems are included - ensures that firefighters are equipped to meet the complex challenges of today’s built environment. Every fireground victory begins with knowledge, and there is no more immediate or practical knowledge than knowing how a building works, inside and out.

Be Smart - Stay Safe!

Top Nutrient-Dense Carbs for Tactical Performance

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Carbohydrates are your body’s primary fuel source for physical output, mental clarity, and recovery. Especially under heat, stress, or heavy lifting, carbs spare muscle breakdown and refill your tank fast.

But we’re not talking sugar or white bread. We’re talking real, nutrient-dense carbs that deliver long-lasting energy + vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

1. Sweet Potatoes

  • Loaded with vitamin A, potassium, fiber, and slow-burning carbs

  • Helps regulate blood sugar and supports hydration

  • Best for: shift meals, post-training, carb cycling

2. Oats (Rolled or Steel-Cut)

  • High in fiber, B vitamins, iron, and slow-digesting starch

  • Great for steady energy and gut health

  • Add fruit, nut butter, or protein powder for full performance meals

  • Best for: breakfast, pre-workout, on-duty fuel

3. Quinoa

  • Complete protein + complex carb

  • Rich in magnesium, manganese, and fiber

  • Gluten-free and great for grain bowls or meal prep

  • Best for: recovery meals, lunch/dinner sides

4. Bananas

  • Fast-acting carb with potassium and vitamin B6

  • Great for quick energy, cramp prevention, or intra-shift fuel

  • Best for: pre-training, in the rig, with protein for recovery

5. Berries (Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries)

  • High in antioxidants, low in sugar

  • Reduce oxidative stress from training or toxic exposure (smoke, gear, etc.)

  • Boost immune health and recovery

  • Best for: post-shift meals, snacks, smoothies

6. Brown or Wild Rice

  • Complex, fibrous carb that supports endurance

  • Pairs well with proteins to replenish glycogen stores

  • Easy to prep in bulk for duty meals or meal plans

  • Best for: dinner, post-training, high-output days

Tactical Tip: Carbs are a Tool

Carbs don’t make you fat—eating the wrong carbs at the wrong time does. Time your carbs around work, training, and recovery for performance—not crash-and-burn cycles.

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

What is Your Reason? A Firefighter’s Reflection on Purpose, Passion, and Perseverance

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In the fire service, we pride ourselves on being ready for anything — chaos, crisis, catastrophe. But behind every call we run, every drill we sweat through, and every sleepless night spent under fluorescent lights… there’s a deeper question we all need to answer:

“What is your reason?”

Not just why you became a firefighter — but why you stay. Why you show up early, train harder, push further. Why you take the hard calls personally, and the easy days humbly.

Maybe your reason is your family — the ones you kiss goodbye before every shift, knowing each one might be different. Maybe it’s your crew — the people who’ve got your back in zero visibility and life-or-death moments. Maybe it’s duty — a calling to serve when others run. Or maybe it’s growth — becoming stronger, sharper, and more disciplined with each challenge.

The fire service will test you. It will stretch your limits. It will expose your weaknesses. It will humble your ego. But your reason — your why — will anchor you. It’s what keeps you from quitting when you're broken, what gets you up when you're tired, what reminds you that you are part of something much bigger than yourself. And beyond the firehouse, this mindset applies to life itself.

We all face our own “burning buildings” — stress, loss, fear, failure. We all fight unseen battles. We all have moments where quitting feels easier than continuing. But purpose makes the pain worth it.

Reason gives resilience. So ask yourself — Why do you do what you do? What legacy are you building? Who or what are you fighting for? Whether on the fireground or at home, know your reason.

Let it shape your mindset. Let it lead your actions. Let it define your story.

Because when the heat turns up — in life or in the job — your reason is the only thing that will keep you moving forward.

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

Understanding Fire Behavior for Today's Firefighters

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Fire behavior is one of the most critical areas of knowledge for any firefighter. It directly impacts decisions on the fireground and is key to ensuring the safety of personnel and the effectiveness of tactical operations. At its core, fire requires three essential components to exist—heat, fuel, and oxygen—collectively known as the fire triangle. However, to truly understand fire behavior, we must go a step further and include the chemical chain reaction, forming what is called the fire tetrahedron. This reaction sustains combustion, and disrupting any one of these elements will lead to fire extinguishment.

Fires progress through a predictable series of stages: the incipient stage (initial ignition with minimal visible signs), the growth stage (where the fire begins to intensify and spread), the fully developed stage (maximum heat release and flame spread), and the decay stage (where fuel and oxygen begin to run out). Each stage presents unique threats and demands a specific tactical approach. Recognizing and anticipating these transitions is crucial for safe entry, ventilation timing, and suppression tactics.

Among the most dangerous phenomena firefighters may encounter are flashover, rollover, and backdraft. Flashover is the near-simultaneous ignition of all combustibles in a space due to high temperatures and thermal radiation. Rollover is the ignition of hot gases that have risen to the ceiling, often a precursor to flashover. Backdraft is an explosive event caused by the sudden reintroduction of oxygen into a superheated, oxygen-deprived environment. All three present extreme danger and require situational awareness and early recognition.

Smoke itself is an invaluable indicator of fire conditions. Its color, velocity, volume, and density can provide early clues to fire location, intensity, fuel type, and potential hazards. Light-colored smoke may indicate early-stage fires or clean-burning fuels, while dark, turbulent, fast-moving smoke suggests high heat and dangerous fire growth. Reading smoke is an essential skill that gives firefighters an edge in identifying flashover conditions, collapse zones, and points of safe or unsafe entry.

Fire spreads in three primary ways: conduction (heat traveling through solid materials like metal beams), convection (heat and gases moving upward through open spaces and ventilation paths), and radiation (heat traveling through space and igniting surfaces at a distance). Understanding these modes of fire travel is essential when assessing fire spread potential, protecting exposures, and predicting the fire’s next move.

In today’s fire environment—fueled by synthetic materials and affected by lightweight construction—the speed and severity of fire growth are greater than ever before. This reality demands not just physical readiness but also a mental and strategic understanding of how fire behaves. Firefighters must approach each incident with a trained eye, constantly evaluating smoke conditions, building construction, ventilation profiles, and environmental factors like wind.

Ultimately, fire behavior is not just a theoretical subject—it’s a life-or-death factor on every scene. By studying it, drilling it, and applying it, we increase our operational effectiveness, protect our crews, and uphold our mission to save lives and property. The fireground is dynamic and unforgiving, but through knowledge, preparation, and observation, we can meet its challenges head-on.

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

The Lost Art of Drafting

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A very undervalued and often forgotten skill in the fire service - drafting.

Drafting water with a fire engine involves drawing water from a static source—like a pond, lake, river, or portable tank—into the fire engine's pump so it can be used for firefighting operations. This process is used when there is no nearby hydrant or pressurized water supply. Unlike hydrants, which supply pressurized water, static sources require firefighters to create suction using a pump to pull the water into the apparatus. This is typically done using hard suction hoses and a priming pump to remove air from the system and allow atmospheric pressure to push water into the pump. Drafting is especially common in rural or remote areas where hydrants are unavailable, and it's a critical skill for maintaining water supply during extended fire operations.

In many parts of the country, hydrants are everywhere or being added into communities as more towns are over developing their land and turning small rural and suburban towns into mini metropolis areas causing for over population and high strain on many small and volunteer fire departments. Due to this, the importance or need to understand the art of drafting water has seemingly been becoming an old, antiquated style of water supply. Regardless of that, there are still times when drafting is needed based on the demographics and anomalies, fire departments should think about.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends a minimum flow rate of 150 gallons of water per minute from a single hose line to effectively fight a fire. However, most structure fires require multiple lines, with total water flow often ranging from 300 to 1,000 gallons per minute or more. Given that a typical fire engine carries only 750 to 1,000 gallons of water, this supply can be exhausted in as little as 5 to 7 minutes—or even faster when higher flow rates are needed. This means that firefighters must quickly establish a continuous water source by connecting to a hydrant within minutes of arrival. In areas without hydrant access, additional engines or water tankers must be dispatched immediately to maintain an adequate water supply. The urgency of securing water underscores the importance of pre-planning, mutual aid agreements, and rapid response to prevent fire spread and structural loss.

Basic Drafting Steps:

Position Engine close to water on stable ground. Position the engine as close as safely possible to the water source. By positioning the engine close to the water source, it will minimize the length of the suction hose needed.

Connect Hard Suction Hose with strainer to pump intake.

Submerge Hose fully in water, free from debris or air.

Prime the Pump to create vacuum, allowing atmospheric pressure to push water into the hose and initiate water flow. Priming the pump activates the pump to remove air from the system, creating a vacuum that allows atmospheric pressure to push water into the pump. This is done by use of the primer pump either manual or automatic.

Start Pumping, monitor pressure, and operate attack lines. Once the pump is primed and water is flowing, you can increase the throttle to build pressure. The water is now available to be discharged through attack lines or transferred to another apparatus. Open the discharge valve slowly to allow water to flow through the system. Monitor pressure gauges to ensure stable operation.

Side note: If using portable tanks, ensure they are replenished as needed to maintain an adequate water supply.

Key Considerations:

Max lift height is ~25 feet due to atmospheric pressure.

Leaks or air in the hose will prevent drafting.

Water quality (debris, mud, ice) can disrupt operation.

Why It Still Matters:

Despite increasing hydrant availability, drafting is still crucial for departments facing rural response, wildland fires, or extended operations. It’s a skill that should not be forgotten, especially given the increasing strain on small and volunteer departments.

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

No Matter How Strong Your Last Shift Was — Today’s Fire Doesn’t Care.

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In the fire service, your mindset speaks to the perishable nature of readiness. You might have crushed a call last shift, made a great stop, or executed perfect teamwork — but that was then. Fires don’t care about your résumé. Emergencies won’t wait for you to catch up. Lives, property, and the safety of your crew depend on what you bring today.

Core Themes:

Complacency kills. Past success can lead to false security. Overconfidence is the enemy of vigilance. Every call is different. No two fires behave exactly the same. Tactics evolve. Conditions change fast. You’re only as good as your last rep. Mental sharpness, physical conditioning, and technical skills must be maintained. Yesterday’s training won’t carry you forever.

Earn it daily.

Respect the craft. Hone your edge. Show up to the station or the rig ready to win today’s game.

For the Crew Wall or Day Room:

“No matter how strong your last shift was — today’s fire doesn’t care.

Reset. Recommit. Reload.

This shift is a new game — and we play to win.”

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

Top Nutrient-Dense Proteins for Tactical Performance

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In the world of tactical professions—whether you're a firefighter, law enforcement, EMS, military or high-performing athlete—protein is non-negotiable. It is the foundation for recovery, strength, energy, immune support, and long-term resilience.

But it is not just about hitting your macros. It is about choosing the right protein sources—ones that also deliver the vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats your body needs to perform and recover under stress.

Let’s break down the best nutrient-dense proteins that belong in every tactical fueling plan.

1. Eggs

  • Complete protein with all 9 essential amino acids (*Histidine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Threonine, Trptophan, Valine)

  • Rich in choline (brain health) and vitamin D (immunity & recovery)

  • Affordable, portable, and extremely versatile

  • Best for: breakfast fuel, quick post-shift meals, or snacks on the go

2. Chicken Thighs (Skin-On or Skinless)

  • Higher in micronutrients than chicken breast: iron, zinc, B6, B12

  • Contains healthy fats that support hormone function and endurance

  • More flavorful and satiating, making it easier to prep in bulk

  • Best for: meal prep, post-training meals, long-duty energy

3. Grass-Fed Beef

  • Loaded with iron, B12, zinc, creatine, and CLA (a fatty acid that supports fat metabolism)

  • Helps build and maintain lean muscle mass while supporting oxygen transport

  • Choose lean cuts (like sirloin or flank) for lower fat, or fattier cuts during heavy training

  • Best for: post-call recovery meals, heavy lifting days, strength cycles

4. Salmon

  • High-quality protein + omega-3 fatty acids (anti-inflammatory and heart health)

  • Contains vitamin D, B12, selenium, and potassium

  • Supports brain function, joint health, and recovery from high-intensity work

  • Best for: dinner rotation, brain-fuel meals, inflammation support

5. Liver (Beef or Chicken)

  • One of the most micronutrient-dense foods on the planet

  • Packed with iron, vitamin A, B12, folate, and copper

  • Small servings go a long way—try ground with beef if taste is a factor

  • Best for: iron-deficient athletes, endurance support, immune health

6. Greek Yogurt (Plain, Full-Fat or 2%)

  • High in casein and whey protein for muscle recovery

  • Contains calcium, probiotics, and B12

  • Great for gut health and keeping you full between shifts

  • Best for: recovery snacks, smoothies, pre-bedtime fuel

7. Sardines / Canned Mackerel

  • Rich in omega-3s, calcium (with bones), vitamin D, and protein

  • Shelf-stable, portable, and perfect for fieldwork or busy shifts

  • Best for: on-the-go meals, tactical packs, heart & brain support

Why These Proteins Matter

Tactical athletes burn through nutrients faster due to:

  • High stress and cortisol output

  • Increased physical output and sweat loss

  • Poor sleep cycles or night shifts

  • Inflammation from training or repeated exposure (heat, smoke, impact, etc.)

Choosing nutrient-dense proteins ensures you’re not just getting enough macros—you’re replenishing the micros that help your body repair, rebuild, and stay sharp.

Tactical Tip: Rotate Your Proteins

Don’t eat just chicken breast and protein shakes every day. Rotate 3–5 high-quality protein sources per week to maximize your nutrient intake and keep meals interesting.

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

*It used to be thought only infants could produce histidine however modern research has shown adults rely on dietary sources of histidine, which is why it is now considered the 9th essential amino acid.

Yesterday’s Hits Won’t Win Today’s Game

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"Yesterday’s Hits Won’t Win Today’s Game"

We’ve all been there — the feeling after a solid stop on a working fire. Maybe it was a fast knockdown, a tough rescue, or spot-on ventilation. The kind of call that reaffirms why we do this job. But as great as that win feels, it doesn’t guarantee success on your next shift.

“Yesterday’s hits won’t win today’s game” is more than a catchy phrase. It’s a cultural challenge. A mindset shift. In this profession, lives depend on how we perform under pressure — right now. The community doesn’t care about your highlight reel. The fire doesn’t care about your certifications. Each call is a new test. Are you ready?

This is why we drill. This is why we talk through runs, inspect gear with purpose, and train harder than the job requires. It’s not just pride — it’s survival.

So the next time you step off the rig, ask yourself: "Am I bringing my best game today?" Because yesterday’s performance won’t save a life tomorrow.

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

You Can Never Know Enough

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"You can never know enough, but you never know too much" — especially in the context of the fire service.

Here is a quick breakdown of its meaning and value:

"You can never know enough". What does this mean?

In the fire service, continuous learning is essential. Tactics, building construction, fire behavior, medical response, leadership, and technology are always evolving. No firefighter can ever say they've learned everything — there's always more to understand, train for, and improve upon. As the old saying goes, "the day we know everything is the day we retire". If we keep the mentality of continuous learning as essential, the possibilities of our potential therefore become limitless in all we do.

"But you never know too much". How can we speak upon this?

In critical situations, knowledge is power. The more you know, the better decisions you can make under pressure. Being overly prepared is not a liability — it's a lifesaving asset. In fact, having too much knowledge in this field simply doesn't exist.

The more we learn and the more we can translate the classroom knowledge to real-life situations in the training room and the fire ground, the better we become in our situational awareness of the incidents and the confidence we have in trusting knowledge and skills in the critical situations of the job. This is all about TRUST.

Why it does this matter?

Lives depend on it. The fire service isn't just about strength and courage — it's also about making split-second decisions based on training and experience. Translating classroom work, hands-on training and carrying over prior real-life fire ground experiences will enhance our fire ground decision-making and heightening our sense of situational awareness.

Knowledge builds confidence. A firefighter who understands their tools, team dynamics, building layouts, and fire behavior is more effective — and safer.

It promotes humility. Recognizing that you can never know enough keeps firefighters grounded and always seeking growth.

Because every call, every fire, every life depends on knowledge. Train relentlessly. Stay sharp. Stay safe.

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

Engine Work Beyond the Nozzle: Responsibilities You Can't Overlook

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When most firefighters think of engine company work, the first image that comes to mind is the nozzle firefighter—charging through smoke and extinguishing fire. But the reality is, that success doesn't happen without the silent choreography behind it. From securing the water supply to managing pump pressures, advancing hose lines, and supporting searches, engine company operations are a team effort where every position plays a pivotal role. Overlooking these responsibilities weakens the entire operation. In this article, we'll break down the often-overlooked tasks that make up the backbone of solid engine work because great fireground performance starts with mastering the basics beyond the nozzle.

Hydrant Operations and Water Supply

A fire attack is only as strong as its water source. That's why securing a reliable supply is one of the most critical and often underestimated tasks in engine company operations. The hydrant firefighter must act quickly, decisively, and with precision. From choosing the right hydrant to ensuring it's flushed and fully open, every step affects the engine's ability to deliver consistent water to the nozzle.

There's also an art to laying in: whether the officer calls for a forward lay or the engine company chauffeur (ECC) sets up a reverse lay, the decision should be based on distance, terrain, and available staffing. A sloppy stretch or a missed hydrant can delay the attack or leave crews vulnerable if the initial tank water runs dry. Hydrant operations may not be glamorous, but they are the lifeline of the fireground. Trust between the control firefighter and the pump operator is non-negotiable. It's a bond that keeps water flowing and crews safe inside.

Pump Operations and ECC Responsibilities

The engine company chauffeur is the engine company's nerve center, quietly controlling the fire attack's heartbeat. While firefighters inside are battling heat and smoke, the operator is outside, ensuring they have exactly what they need: the correct pressure, flow, and uninterrupted water. Mastering the pump panel goes far beyond knowing what lever to pull. It requires a deep understanding of friction loss, nozzle requirements, elevation changes, and how each impacts flow dynamics.

Equally important is apparatus positioning. A few feet too far from the hydrant or an awkward angle to the structure can slow down operations and compromise safety. The operator must constantly monitor multiple lines, anticipate water needs, and remain adaptable if conditions change. This isn't a "set it and forget it" role; it's an active, high-responsibility position that demands calm under pressure and ongoing training. When the crew inside hits a snag, they look to the operator to keep the system strong. A sharp operator isn't just pushing buttons. They're the support system for the engine company's operation.

Line Advancement and Support Firefighters

Photo: Kyle Lutz - IG: Kyle_Lutz937

Behind every effective nozzle firefighter is a team making that push possible. The backup and control positions are the unsung heroes of interior operations tasked with keeping the line moving, managing slack, clearing kinks, and maintaining communication throughout the advance. A charged hose line is heavy, unforgiving, and easily hung up on doorways, furniture, or staircases. Without solid support, even the best nozzle firefighter can be rendered ineffective.

The backup firefighter works directly behind the nozzle, helping absorb recoil and ensure the stream stays steady and directed. Further down the line, the control firefighter manages the hose outside the structure or at the entry point, feeding slack, clearing snags, and adjusting as the team advances. When these roles are correctly completed, the attack is smooth and efficient. When they're neglected, the line stalls, water flow is compromised, and momentum is lost. Line advancement is a full-team effort built on trust, timing, and technique.

Forcible Entry and Search Support

While truck companies are traditionally tasked with forcible entry and search, engine crews must be ready to step into those roles, especially when arriving first or operating without immediate truck support. Gaining access quickly can mean the difference between rescue and recovery, and it falls on the engine to make it happen when time is critical. Every firefighter on the engine should be proficient with basic forcible entry tools like the irons, a set of hydraulic tools, or a K-tool. Knowing how to force a door efficiently and without excessive damage is a skill that pays dividends in both speed and safety.

Beyond entry, engine crews often assist in primary search operations, especially when the truck company is delayed or stretched thin. That means understanding search techniques, maintaining orientation, and coordinating with other crews to avoid redundancy or missed areas. Being an engine firefighter doesn't excuse someone from developing truck-based skills; it reinforces their versatility. Fire doesn't wait for perfect assignments, and the best engine companies are ready for anything, from entry to overhaul.

Overhaul and Secondary Duties

Photo: Kyle Lutz - IG: Kyle_Lutz937

Once the fire is knocked, the work is far from over, and engine companies play a significant role in what happens next. Overhaul is more than just breaking things apart; it's a methodical search for smoldering materials and hidden pockets of fire. Engine crews should approach overhaul with the same urgency and attention to detail as the initial attack. Thermal imaging cameras, hand tools, and charged lines remain in play as firefighters peel back ceilings, walls, and flooring to ensure complete extinguishment.

Beyond overhaul, engine firefighters often assist in ventilation, salvage, and even support operations for fire investigation. Protecting property, preserving evidence, and creating safer working environments are all part of the job. These secondary duties might not carry the same adrenaline rush as the push to the seat of the fire, but they are essential to a complete operation. A disciplined engine company doesn't pack up after the fire is extinguished. They stay until the scene is truly secure.

Accountability and Communication

A disciplined engine company isn't just effective; they're accountable. Maintaining crew integrity on the fireground is non-negotiable. Every member should know who they're working with, their assignment, and where they should be. This starts with a solid riding assignment system and continues with ongoing verbal and visual check-ins during the operation. When the smoke thickens and chaos builds, accountability becomes the anchor that keeps firefighters safe and commanders informed.

Clear, concise communication bridges what's happening inside and the decisions being made outside. Engine crews must be proficient on the radio, not just in knowing how to use it but also in knowing what to say, when to say it, and how to make transmissions useful. Communication should be intentional and timely, whether relaying progress on the line, requesting water, reporting hazards, or calling for relief. In an environment where seconds count, and conditions evolve rapidly, strong communication and crew discipline separates a smooth operation from a dangerous one.

Training and Company Drills

Engine company excellence doesn't happen by chance. It's built through consistent, realistic training. Every firefighter should be cross-trained in nozzle work, hydrant hookup, pump operations, and support roles. That way, when staffing is tight, or assignments shift on the fly, the crew can adapt without hesitation. Training should go beyond pulling lines in a parking lot; it must reflect real-world challenges such as tight hallways, long stretches, cluttered interiors, low visibility, and water supply issues.

Regular company drills help build rhythm and trust. They refine communication, reinforce expectations, and expose weaknesses before they become problems on the fireground. Even simple evolutions like dry stretching lines, simulating kinks, or working on pump calculations can sharpen skills and boost crew confidence. The best engine companies train as they fight purposefully, frequently, and with pride in their craft. Because when things go wrong on the scene, the training keeps the crew moving forward.

Available for the Next Assignment

Engine company operations are often judged by what happens at the nozzle, but that's only part of the picture. From securing water to running the pump, advancing the line, forcing doors, and overhauling the scene, every role is essential to a successful fireground outcome. A nozzle firefighter may take the fight to the fire, but they're only as effective as the crew supporting them. The engine company operates as a true team when each position is valued, trained for, and executed with pride.

Fireground success doesn't rely on heroics—it relies on consistency, preparation, and accountability. Great engine companies understand that excellence lives in the details and that the real work often happens outside the spotlight. Master the fundamentals, respect every assignment, and remember that engine work is more than just the nozzle. It's a coordinated effort that starts before the first drop of water hits the fire.


When to Detach from the Plan

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In theory, our strategies and tactics for our incident action plan are developed based on our 360-degree size-up. In reality, our strategies and tactics of our incident action plan are developed based on many variables - the pre-incident size-up, the alarm size-up, the on-scene size-up and the post-incident (after action review) size-up. All these variables are covered in chapter 3 of my book, "The 5-Tool Firefighter" in greater detail. For purposes of this article, I am highlighting them for other purposes.

The pre-incident size-up

 The pre-incident size-up is the first and best place to begin putting our IAP together by collecting as much important and relevant information of the structure as we possibly can and therefore beginning to build our "gameplans" and try them out in training. During this size-up, we can locate and note the following:

  1. Construction type

  2. Interior space size

  3. Containment areas

  4. Stairwells and elevators

  5. FDC hookups

  6. Solar Panels

Note: variables change based on the type of construction and type of occupancy you are pre-planning. These six items are only a sample of what we could look to identify during a pre-planning.

The alarm size-up

During the alarm size-up this is where firefighters and fire officers should start considering the variables taken during the pre-incident size-up. On the way to the alarm, things to look into are as follows:

  1. Location of the structure

  2. Type of occupancy

  3. Current apparatus staffing

  4. Weather conditions and time of day (loosely)

  5. Apparatus placement (think water supply/aerial operations)

These areas will lead into building the strategies and tactics for our IAP for this particular alarm. Now comes the on-scene.

The on-scene size-up

This is where the pre-planning and alarm size-ups are put to work. All our work identifying key areas of consideration and training are now put to the test. In reality, it is where we are provided with much more information specific to the alarm, confirming our variables during the alarm size-up, such as building construction, type of occupancy and location.

 Here is where more in-depth size-ups will take place not only at the command level but at each company level. Firefighters of truck and engine companies will now begin going inside the structure and taking note of the area under a different light and different conditions and relaying their findings back to the incident commander. This information being done at the company level will now allow the IC (incident commander) to make fire ground decisions that’s are prioritized for a safe and efficient outcome. This process continues until command is terminated.

Post-incident size-up

Once we've returned to the station and cleared up, it is imperative that we begin to discuss what went right and wrong on the incident, no matter the severity of the incident. This helps firefighter and fire officers strive to improve on their strengths and weaknesses of their job and strive to be as successful as possible.

Things to consider:

  1. What did we expect to happen?

  2. What actually happened?

  3. What went well and why?

  4. What can we improve upon and how? 

Looking at these four areas of size-up, we need to understand one thing. Our incident action plan that is designed to assist is can also hurt us. Well, how is that possible? We have pre-planned, sized-up on alarms, trained on scenarios for this type of occupancy, we did everything? What would hurt us?

What could hurt us is by sticking to the script of the IAP. What do I mean by that? Unforeseen circumstances and confirmation bias.

The outcome of the incident is initiated in our thought process before we develop any strategies or tactics of the incident. In order to develop strategies and tactics we first must identify our outcome. Makes total sense right? We cannot plan for an outcome we do not have in mind.

Our confirmation bias also agrees but here is the caveat. We cannot identify areas of concern if we simply go off an incident action plan without detaching ourselves from the plan for a moment. Meaning, we use our IAP as a guide but also take the time to look around for key areas that we are predisposed to instantly ignore.

Here is an example. 

We prepare our alarm size-up and look at the time of day. For example, Engine 2 is responding to a fire alarm activation at 234 Sesame Street on a Tuesday at roughly 1400 hours. It is a 2-story residential wood frame structure and normally at this time the family is either working and/or at school. 

Initially we are thinking this could be a faulty smoke detector activation or maybe someone is home and it's burnt food on the stove. However, upon arrival we see no signs of "life" at the residence. There are no cars in the driveway or at the curb and no homeowner waiting for us. Right here, our confirmation has proven correct. No one is home and a faulty detector went off. 

We immediately considered that because of the time of day with no activity at home upon arrival and the lack of cars visible to us, it must appear no one is home. 

Now let's detach from that mindset for a moment. 

We automatically assumed based on the time of day and day of week no one would be home however, that simply cannot be the case. To overcome confirmation bias, we need to loosely take time of day into account and assume every response has occupants on scene. Having a rough idea of who might be home is good to have but it cannot be written in stone and here's why. 

A residential structure could with an attached or detached garage could have the homeowner’s car parked inside (off-day or working from home) or the car could be for all intents and purposes, at a shop getting work done.  

To go further into the example here is more details. The engine company officer decides to DETACH from the initial mindset and dispatch and peak around the exterior of the structure that has a 6-foot privacy fence around the side yard and into the backyard and notices black smoke coming from the basement windows on the "C" side (Charlie side ) of the structure after entering through the fence gate. 

We've identified two areas of concern here. One, we disregarded the confirmation bias of time of day that the potential of no one is home and we identified an unforeseen circumstance based on the initial dispatch of the alarm.  

By detaching from the plan for a moment and taking a step back to question and prove out your initial mindset can oftentimes be the difference between a reactive approach or a proactive approach. The IAP is a great tool to have although we must ensure we are always critically thinking on scene and not simply going through the motions.

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

Benefits of Stretching

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Unlike athletes firefighters and other first responders don't know when "game time" will be. It could be at 7am or it could be at 11pm but in any case we need to ensure we are at our best when the alarm goes off. As we know, we cannot predict when runs will come in and when they won't but preparation of our bodies before and during shift is just as equally as important as preparing our gear, tools and apparatus. Further, being able to wind down after runs is just as important as preparing for the shift and the potential call volume. This will help prepare the mind and body for work.

So where am I going with this?

I'm going with a focus on stretching. That's right. Stretching.

Stretching, even a short routine, added to your daily routine is a great benefit for overall health and wellness and pays off large dividends. It could be used as a pre-workout or a post-workout routine or both. Stretching can help unwind and release tension after a hectic day or even a long duration run as well as assist in increasing energy levels.

Here are some health benefits to stretching that help can keep you on the path for a long shift in the firehouse and overall better health.

1. Improves flexibility and agility which is important for all firefighters
2. Helps keep a decreased resting heart rate. A health heart is vital for all firefighters
3. Increases the circulation of blood and oxygen to the muscles
4. Helps remove waste from tissues such as lactic acid which is built up during intense exercise. Sometimes causing painful, sore muscles.
5. Helps prevent injuries
6. Increases overall mood and well-being.

Stretching at its best could be used a form of exercise for the body and mind. Keep in mind to only stretch as far as your current level of flexibility and over time the range of motion will gradually increase.

6 Stretches to do everyday to help improve flexibility, blood circulating, oxygen levels, relieve stress and tension. Do all 6, three times for 15-30 seconds each.

  1. Quadricep stretch

  2. Hamstring stretch

  3. Calf raise

  4. Spinal twist

  5. Kneeling hip-flexor

  6. Chest opener

Always remember, before beginning any type of exercise program to consult with your primary physician first.

Side note: As per the 2018 NFPA Journal on firefighter injuries, there was an estimated 58K plus injuries estimated in 2018 and also the lowest since the NFPA has been analyzing this data in 1981. In this report it was noted that the major type of injury during fire ground operations were strains and sprains, which accounted for 38% of all injuries while it accounted for 59% of all non-fire ground injuries.

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


The Engine Company Doorman

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As we know each position on the engine company is an integral role to the success or failure of the job at hand. Each role is unique and plays an important part in the grand scheme. Like chess each firefighter is just as important as the other and how they're utilized is most important. In this case, it's the Door Man. A role that isn't spoken about much and like many departments today, is often times combined with the roles of back-up firefighter due to staffing limitations yet the responsibilities are crucial and play large parts during fires.
Here are some quick tips for the door man.

1. Back-up the hydrant firefighter. Ensure the cross-lay is emptied from the bed or assist with the static lay connection.
2. Know your hose estimates. Should the static lay be used, estimate the amount needed before connecting to the engine (better to go more than not enough)
3. If there is a back-up firefighter, assist in flaking out the line from the front to the back-up firefighter.
4. Prevent kinks in line. Choke doors as the line goes through.
5. Eyes on the structure. Monitor fire conditions at the doorway(s) and/or stairwell(s) and report any deteriorating conditions.
6. Next man up. Should the nozzle firefighter need to be relived, it's your job to step up.

There it is, quick tips for an often overlooked position on the fire ground however a role that plays dividends to the success of the fire suppression team.

Until next time; work hard, stay say & 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.