Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Lessons Learned from Chicago FD

Brian Fennessy, Assistant Fire Chief of the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department and local agency representative on the NWCG Leadership Subcommittee, shared this video with me. With the assistance from the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, our fellow firefighters in the structural fire world have made a very powerful video for the "Everyone Goes Home" initiative.



Here are some quotes of value from members of the Chicago FD:
  • Safety is everyone's responsibility.
  • If you're not sure, ask. 
  • If you're not prepared, you have to learn.
  • Don't come to work complacent; come to work and keep learning. The day you stop learning on the job is the day you should retire.
  • Train the way you're gonna play...Nothing beats training.
  • Safety is first above everything!
  • Buckle up!
  • Know where you are at.
  • Take a minute and do your own size-up.
  • Talk to the older firefighters who have been through a lot more.
  • Respect the fire.
  • Understand what you are doing and why you are doing it.
  • Know where the fire is going next and the actions you should be taking to keep yourself safe.
  • A "mayday" should be a routine distress signal. Bring in additional resources to solve the problem.
  • Be fit and eat properly. Take advantage of tests and examinations that management offers.
  • Know your equipment and its limitations.
  • Be aware and ready for any fire.
  • There is no such thing as a routine incident. Be prepared for the unexpected.
  • Nothing prepares you for the pain and sorrow that follows a line-of-duty death.
  • The courage to be safe is up to you.
  • When you think you're on the top of your game and you think you're really good at it, it will humble you. Don't ever take anything for granted. if you do, it will kill you!
  • Execute the basics to the fullest.
  • Courage in the face of danger means everyone goes home.
Wildland Fire Leadership Challenge:
  • Take time to view this video and share with your crews. The lessons learned and message apply to all firefighters--whether structural or wildland.
  • Make a crew video that shares the wildland fire perspective.

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