In the modern fire environment our window for saving civilian lives is getting smaller and smaller by the second. This lecture will examine civilian survival rates based on time and how that information can be utilized to spur improved training and develop more expedient fire ground operations. Through the introduction of scientific management methods and the "light and fast" approach used in mountaineering, the lecture will focus on the difference between effective and efficient operations, ultimately demonstrating how the latter creates better chances for both THEM and US.

This class provides the tools and knowledge to lead from the front as a company officer, all while building an effective group of performers. It targets newly promoted company officers as well as those who may assume the role in the near future but will ultimately benefit anyone who has the desire to make change and drive ownership into the company level. Company officers truly are the mortar in any fire department. They have the ability to keep their department running strong and efficient with their example, attitude, and passion. This class emphasizes the importance of unit cohesion and how it can have a lasting impact. It is meant to inspire action and produce results in your company, your station, and your department.

“Beyond the Door” is a class designed to discuss the conditions that are present inside today’s dwelling fires. It is imperative for the fire service to develop operational links to expectations at fire scenes. Discussions in the class use pictures and videos to discuss the expected conditions based on the building. Engine Companies should be excellent at understanding “layout”. Building layout is the operational space. Hose layout leads to direct action. People imperiled by fire are the burden of one agency, the fire service. “Reported Trapped” is not an emergency for the fire department. It is the responsibility.

This program examines ventilation and its relationship with fire behavior, firefighting operations, and most importantly, victim survivability, to identify how the tactic impacts the fireground. By coupling past experience with the latest research findings, the common pitfalls and misconceptions are addressed to reduce potential errors and avoidable losses. A set of guiding principles and practices is provided to establish an operational baseline. The framework is universal and can be applied to any environment - from rural to urban communities. With a functional understanding of ventilation and the methodology for its execution, participants can more consistently make the right call for their fireground.