Two More Chains

One thing we can all do to prepare for our time on the line is physical training—PT. Does your PT program prepare you for your job? Are you susceptible to injury? Do you know the risks and dangers associated with PT? Check out this issue for all kinds of good info on physical training—and much more!

When the smoke is churning and we’re slamming line, the physical location of the Lunch Spot often coincides with a decision point. It’s commonly a spot offering a safe place to take a tactical pause. It might not always take place while the crew is eating, but the decisions made in those moments can literally determine life and death.

“What’s Up with Incident Reviews?” Today it seems we have incident reviews for everything—with more incident reviews and types of reviews than ever before. In this issue, we try to peel back the layers for what “officially” guides these reviews—including the differences in reviews—including philosophies—between agencies. Our “Shop Talk” highlights Rapid Lesson Sharing—how you can now quickly share your lessons with the field.

“AARs—Why Do We Do Them?”, the theme of this issue, explores the various ways your standard AAR can be retooled to achieve more effective and beneficial results. A variety of tips and insights on how to hone your AARs are provided. AAR alternatives are also explored. Case in point: Craig Cunningham and Ruby Mountain Hotshots’ “PLOWS” AAR adaptation. Check it out!

A special tribute to the Granite Mountain Hotshots.

This issue’s cover story—“TRAINING: What Does It Mean?”—takes a closer look at how we might want to redefine or reimagine what “training” means to us. Bottom Line: Training shouldn’t be limited to the classroom. We all like to learn—what are you doing to make it happen? Tying directly into this “hands-on” theme, the One of Our Own section tells the story of how Palomar Hotshot Brandon Opliger helped his crew produce a seven-minute video on “Leadership in Motion.” In his Ground Truths page, Travis Dotson explains how you might already be leading without even knowing it. The Shop Talk page asks: “Do You Drill?”

“Taking Care of Our Own” is the theme of this issue that takes a deeper look into what this concept truly means. Included in this issue: the compelling “journey to recovery” story shared by South Canyon Fire survivor Kim Lightley and insights from Ahtanum IA Crew Supervisor Ben Goble, who lost two of his crew members last September in a motor vehicle accident. How the Union Hotshots responded to an “unacceptable situation” and lent a fellow firefighter a hand is also featured. “What’s in Your Crew Boss Kit?” is the focus of our Shop Talk page—designed to help folks be better prepared for traumatic events, including references for helping these event’s survivors. In his Ground Truths column, Travis Dotson asks: “How Do We Know This Job is Dangerous?”

Wheels, Wings, and Rotors. Getting there and getting back. It’s our most dangerous activity. How come? This issue takes a deeper look into why firefighters keep getting injured and killed in driving and flying accidents. Included in this issue: a firsthand driving accident account from the crew of Engine 713; and a good tip—with a “show me” video link—on how to remove that rock stuck between your dual tires. In his Ground Truths column, Travis Dotson explores why we need to be careful of what we ask people to do—because they will do it.

This issue focuses on firing operations. What does a good firing show look like? And, what could go wrong? If you've ever heard: "Hustle up, the window is closing!" you'll want to check out Travis Dotson's "Ground Truths" page. Our "Shop Talk provides an interactive Tactical Decision Game firing operation scenario. Alex , with his wealth of firing operations experience, is featured in our "One of Our Own" section.

“Initial Attack – We’re Doing a Good Job, But . . .” this issue’s cover story, explores the challenges and risks—potential pitfalls—that might await you on your next IA assignment. Travis Dotson’s “Ground Truths” delves into why we love IA, as well as its associated dangers and opportunities. Also in this issue: videos that share Initial Attack lessons; nozzle tips; Tim Woody—a veteran firefighter with extended east and west coast wildland fire experience—shares his spot-on IA insights; and the annual 2011 Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award recipients.