Fire Engineering Podcast

Engine company operations, hose management, and firefighter training take center stage in this discussion of fireground tactics, equipment testing, and fire service research. Lt. Shane Furuta of Federal Fire in Hawaii joins the show to discuss why mastering the fundamentals remains essential to effective firefighting. The conversation explores hands-on training, hose management, low-pressure hose systems, equipment evaluation, and the role of research and data in improving fireground performance. They also examine resources such as the Firefighter Rescue Survey and explain why departments must apply research findings to their own staffing, resources, and operational needs. Listen for practical insights on engine company operations, firefighter training, fireground decision making, and using data to improve tactical performance. Firefighter Rescue Survey: FIREFIGHTER RESCUE SURVEY - For Them This episode is brought to you by The Fire Store: TheFireStore.com

What will determine the future of the volunteer fire service? Guest Mike Ledford joins Tom Merrill to challenge the excuses, outdated practices, and resistance to change that can hold volunteer departments back. Drawing on lessons from the Wilmore (KY) Fire Department, Assistant Chief Ledford discusses practical ways to strengthen recruitment and retention, from improving how prospective members connect with a department to establishing structured duty crews and maintaining high training standards. The conversation also examines the role of leadership, accountability, mentorship, and station culture in building a volunteer fire service that can meet the needs of its members and communities. Volunteer departments cannot afford to rely on the way things have always been done. The future depends on leaders who are willing to identify problems, develop solutions, and take action. This episode is brought to you by The Fire Store: TheFireStore.com

September 11 changed the lives of first responders and communities forever. Jerry Knapp and Tim Pillsworth step away from their usual interview format to reflect on 9/11, sharing personal memories from West Point and local firehouses while honoring the friends they lost and remembering the lasting health impacts on first responders. This heartfelt conversation goes beyond remembrance to examine the lessons emergency services and communities must carry forward. Knapp and Pillsworth discuss the importance of local emergency planning, establishing clear incident command structures, preparing communities for the unexpected, and educating younger generations about the events of September 11 and their lasting impact. We cannot change what happened, but we can honor those who were lost by supporting survivors, strengthening preparedness, and ensuring the lessons of 9/11 are never forgotten. In this episode: Personal reflections on September 11 from West Point and local firehouses Remembering fallen friends and the ongoing illnesses affecting first responders Why effective emergency planning and incident command matter Building community resilience through preparedness and education Keeping the memory and lessons of 9/11 alive for future generations Two Volleys and a Guest is a podcast for the volunteer fire service, bringing important conversations and firsthand perspectives to the fire service community. Subscribe to Fire Engineering for more fire service podcasts, training insights, and conversations that matter to firefighters. #FireEngineering #VolunteerFirefighters #September11 This episode is brought to you by The Fire Store: TheFireStore.com

Are your ground ladders ready when seconds count? Rick Lasky and John Salka discuss portable ladder maintenance, single-firefighter deployment, proper climbing angles, and proactive ladder placement to improve fireground safety. They also explore how historic fires, including the Great Chicago Fire, shaped fire prevention practices and modern building codes. This episode is brought to you by The Fire Store: TheFireStore.com

How do you ensure an adequate water supply at a major commercial fire? On The Humpday Hangout, host Clark Lamping joins chiefs Dan Shaw, Brent Brooks, Jimmy Davis, and Daryl Liggins, along with Andy Soccodato, author of Water Thievery, to discuss fireground hydraulics and water supply operations. The panel examines friction loss in large-diameter hose (LDH), heavy hydrant hookups, multiple supply lines, four-way valves, drafting challenges, and mobile water supply equipment. They also discuss why incident commanders must recognize when to increase water supply capacity as fire conditions evolve. This episode offers practical considerations for firefighters, company officers, and incident commanders responsible for effective fireground water delivery. Key Hose is dedicated to the manufacture and delivery of the highest quality fire hose products, combining the best in raw materials with expert craftsmanship. Sponsored by Key Hose: www.keyhose.com