Fire Department University (FDU)

Episode 6: Rapid Intervention

In this episode Ken and I discuss RIT on the fire ground, as well as the importance of continuous training on the topic. We discuss Phoenix Firefighter Brett Tarver's LODD, and how his department took an active approach to researching all the details of RIT and Maydays on the fire scene. We also go into some NFPA standards that require a RIT to be established and the NFPA RIT training standard. During the episode our conversation takes us down the road of general fire department SOPs regarding RIT and some useful tips for what should be accomplished on the exterior of a structure fire, as well as what should be done during a RIT activation. Enjoy! 

Hazmatician Chronicles Installment 7: Carbon Monoxide "A Silent Killer"

In this installment I review the chemical characteristics of carbon monoxide (CO), along with an overview of atmospheric monitoring. The topic takes a path of proper response and mitigation procedures, as well as the proper PPE to wear on a CO call. I also talk about finer points of medical treatment for victims who were exposed to CO as well as some statistics regarding annual CO deaths and hospital visits. Plus much more on CO in this installment. Enjoy!

Note: Link below to online Fire Engineering article about CO.

https://www.fireengineering.com/2019/10/08/479384/carbon-monoxide-a-silent-killer/#gref

Hazmatician Chronicles Installment 6: COVID-19 Update 2

In this installment, I give an overview of current U.S. and Florida COVID-19 statistics. From there I discuss some of the comments I have received regarding using UV light to disinfect N95 masks, attempts to prolong PPE life, and different disinfectants listed on the CDC website (link is below). I also, discuss the use of O3 (ozone) machines for disinfecting purposes and the safety aspect of the dangers of O3, and why it is paramount to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using these machines. Another topic that is talked about is properly doffing Level C attire and avoiding cross-contamination by not touching the inside of the suit. Enjoy! 

https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/disinfection-methods/chemical.html

Hazmatician Chronicles Installment 5: Hydrogen Sulfide

In this installment I discuss hydrogen sulfide as the chemical that has gained prominence over the past few years in chemical suicides. I also talk about onscene indications of hydrogen sulfide, as well as proper PPE selection when mitigating these situations. I briefly discuss chemical suicide awareness for other chemicals aside from hydrogen sulfide. Other topics in this installment pertain to chemical characteristics, dangerous chemical levels, and antidotes to treat viable victims. Enjoy!

Online Fire Engineering "Chemical Suicide Awareness" Article Link: https://www.fireengineering.com/2015/11/23/280628/chemical-suicide-awareness/#gref

Hazmatician Chronicles Installment 4: COVID-19 Update 1

In this installment, I talk about COVID-19 and why it is so highly contagious. I also talk about what the area I work in is doing for COVID-19 responses, along with what proper PPE to wear. I discuss the different CDC recommendations for PPE, as well as donning, deconing, and doffing your PPE safely. Another topic discussed is reminding everyone to fill out the proper exposure forms after dealing with a confirmed or suspected COVID-19 patient(s). Enjoy!

Note: If you would like to share any of your experiences, what PPE you are wearing, what your agency is doing for COVID-19 responses. Then, please DM us at Fire Department University Facebook page or email us directly at: firedeptuniversity@gmail.com.

Episode 5: Nozzle Talk

In this episode, we introduce our new guest co-host, Ken, to the show. The topic focused for this episode is fog and smoothbore nozzles, as well as side topics on pump hydraulics, hose management, and tactical considerations for each particular nozzle. This episode also talks about flow path of fire and using nozzles to perform hydraulic ventilation. Enjoy!

Hazmatician Chronicles Installment 3: Toluene

In this episode I discuss a NIOSH LODD report that occurred in 1984 involving the chemical Toluene. I also review the chemical characteristics of Toluene as well as mitigation objectives for non-hazmat fire companies and hazmat teams. Enjoy! 

Episode 4: The History of Saint Florian

In this episode I talk about the history of Saint Florian and how he became the patron saint of firefighters. I delve into Florian's history as a Roman soldier, commander, and Christian who defied an emperor's wishes of religious persecution. This episode also talks about standing firm in what one's beliefs are and holding true to them, much like Saint Florian did. Enjoy!

Hazmatician Chronicles Installment 2: Tularemia

In this installment of Hazmatician Chronicles I dive into a little bit of World War II history involving the Battle of Stalingrad. In this battle there are allegations that Russia released a biological war agent (Tularemia) on the invading German forces. I also go over what Tularemia is, how contagious it is, and the signs & symptoms of this biological agent. Enjoy!

Episode 3: Hybrid & New Vehicle Technology

In this episode I talk about what makes a vehicle a hybrid and how to identify them through the manufacturers vehicle badging. I also discuss basic electrical theory, and I debunk a number of myths related to these type of vehicles. During the episode I go over proper power down procedures for the vehicle's electrical systems prior to extrication, patient removal, and submersion in water. Later on in the podcast I talk about other vehicle technologies such as HID lighting, airbags, run flat tires, and alternative fuels. Enjoy!