Pump Operator Training - Part 3

This is the third video of our five part pump operator training series. In this video we focus on calculating Friction Loss. Often times firefighters underestimate the importance of making these calculations. If we do not calculate the correct pressure loss due to friction and then deliver the appropriate pump discharge pressure we could be placing our fellow firefighters in dangerous situations. Take a look at the video below and use our Pump Operator Training Packet to follow along. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-wqKnUalEI

You can click on the images below to take you to our previous Pump Operator Training Videos:

New High-Rise Pack Innovation - QuickLay Fire Attack

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=km9ETzhw7i0 QuickLay Fire Attack has introduced their brand new Attack Pack and Lay Pack for the American Fire Service. I had an awesome opportunity to meet and talk with Sebastian Jacobs, the Managing Director of QLFA, about his innovative high-rise pack system. Sebastian is from Australia and developed this high-rise pack after seeing the "Cleveland Load" hose lays that gained popularity in the United States. He designed a pack to not only carry the hose but to become part of a hose management system to increase efficiency on the fireground. The premise of the design is to establish two packs to deliver 200' of 1.75" hose in a variety of situations.

The Attack Pack is designed to carry 100' of 1.75" hose in a Cleveland Load so that you can deliver a manageable attack hose closest to your entry point. This pack can also be used for a wide variety of hose stretches we very commonly use such as the extended attack, wye'd lines, courtyard stretch, skid load, etc. The Attack Pack has no buckles or zippers and has a very streamlined designed to make carrying and advancing the hose much more efficient. With no buckles you can easily deploy the pack by pulling the "deployment strap" or with sufficient pressure the pack will self deploy when the hose line is charged.

When the Attack Pack is used in situations like high-rise fires or standpipe operations you can use the Lay Pack to bring a water supply to the Attack Pack. The Lay Pack will also carry 100' of 1.75" hose but is loaded with an Accordion Load. This allows the Lay Pack to make the standpipe connection and then the hose will flake out of the pack while it is carried toward the Attack Pack.

For more information on QuickLay Fire Attack you can visit their website at www.quicklayfireattack.com.

Pump Operator Training - Part 2

This is the second video of our five part pump operator training series.  We discuss nozzle pressure and how to calculate flow from a nozzle. To understand how to calculate friction loss and pump discharge pressure we must know the flow from our nozzles. This is a very important step for all pump operators. We also need to have a thorough understanding of nozzle pressure, without an understanding of nozzle pressure we will not be able to deliver the appropriate pump discharge pressure. Use this video and our Pump Operator Training Packet to check your nozzles and understand nozzle flow and operating pressures. If you missed Part 1 you can view it by clicking here.

NEW! Pump Operator Training Video Series

We are happy to introduce to you our new five part video training series for driver operators. Over the next several weeks we will be releasing these videos for you to refresh, host training sessions or even prepare for tests or promotions. Take a look at Part 1 below and then continue reading the article to see what other topics we will be covering.

Here is the breakdown of the topics we will cover in our video series:

Part 1 - Understanding Pump Discharge Pressure and the Components within it.

Part 2 - Calculating Nozzle Flow.

Part 3 - Calculating Friction Loss

Part 4 - Calculating Elevation Gain/Loss and Appliance Pressure Losses

Part 5 - Summary

We have also put together a Pump Operator Training Resource Packet that will go along with this training video series. You can find this resource in the "Downloads" section of our website or by clicking here.

Generation Why? - Part 2

In the last article, we discussed the often maligned generation Y(generation why?). The act of questioning methods and processes can actually advance our cause in technical rescue. This can be achieved with questioning, critical thinking, and constructive debate. In Part 2 we will explore some "why's?" that may close capability gaps or even get people's blood pressure up. We will not cover each of these issues exhaustively, but may revisit some of them in the coming months. So let's fire the first shot...

Why do some practitioners insist on tying a safety or back-up knot in the figure-eight family and some other knots? An overhand safety in the running part of the rope over the standing part does not get actuated. It takes more time to tie the knot properly. It requires some to untie and re-tie to get the tail length correct. Strength is not added to the figure eight with a safety. I have seen people even load the safety side of the knot when tied in the middle of a rope?! Perhaps we should focus on the knot having low gain and being dressed and tied correctly.

Why does the Bowline family of knots get so beat up and ostracized by parts of the rescue community? With the addition of a Yosemite Finish, a double-overhand bend, or slight modification of the knot (double loop / high strength), the bowlines can be reliable, strong, and easy to untie.  There are so many varieties of the knot that they can be tied into multi-point anchors, tied in-line, hard-tied into a fixed rope system, and many others.

Why does the Munter Hitch get such a bad rap?

Whistle test? -Perhaps not. Two-person load? –Absolutely. We catch 600-800 lb. loads all the time using the Munter Hitch. The key to success is that the operator must manage slack and plan for some type of edge friction into the system. We use one change-of-direction carabiner. As for the whistle test- what happens if your Engineer is going code-3 into a curve and let’s go of the wheel or has a heart attack? Does the whistle save your people?  Should we back-up our drivers with safety-drivers? Or maybe take two SCBAs in a fire. I like many devices and tools out there, but the Munter Hitch has no cost, can catch big loads, can act as a Progress Capture Device, and facilitate twin-tensioned systems in lowering and hauling applications.

I know everyone in US&R has cut-off saws that will allow you to cut just under 5” of depth. Have you ever heard of, or tried a ring saw?  As technology improves why has a ring saw not made it into your cache yet? You can achieve 10” of cut depth on a platform that runs on gasoline or hydraulic power.  It might really save a team a good amount of time on the dreaded step cut. On a similar note, why is your team only sporting the 27” long Petrogen Torch that comes in the US&R Ensemble but train and work cutting in confined areas such as a 36” culvert. Thirty inches of torch in a 36” of culvert is unwieldy. Why has your team not looked into the 7” Breaching Torch that Petrogen manufactures.  It has a 45-degree head rather than the 90-degree.  It might be a handy enhancement to your cache when you are tunneling through rebar like pick-up-sticks. How about- Why is the central mode of operations, in training and response, of some overland SAR teams a grid search? With training organizations like NASAR; and programs like FUNSAR, SARTECH Exams, and Managing the Lost Person Incident, there are too many better uses of resources than walking a dress-right-line in the woods. Save that for thorough secondary and tertiary searches or when a rescuer loses his flashlight or keys.  Rapid / hasty searches, hailing searches, trailing / tracking, qualified canine assets, and technical search assets are all better options and require diligent practice and training. Active searching and following a heading are day-one skills. Modern searches even use victim profiling and actuarial tables to predict traits and behavior. Have you heard about aerial drones in SAR? Let’s elevate our profession by incorporating modern and practical methods.

Why are we trained to perform a Vent-Enter-Isolate-Search (VEIS) operation with a confirmed child in a working house fire, but we do not enter a confined space with a patient guppy-breathing until it is too late? Firefighters will even circumvent two-in-two-out to save a life in a fire. Permitted Confined Space: a confined space with possible mechanical hazards, low oxygen, electrical hazards, flammable atmospheres, and other such hazards. In fires these hazards are not only a possibility, but rather a certainty. In the VES operation we mitigate these with turnouts-for flash protection, SCBAs for respiratory protection, helmets and PPE for mechanical protection, and speed to reduce time in the hazard space.  So why could rescuers not use the same ensemble with the addition of PH-Paper to perform grab-and-go rescues for the guppy-breather in the confined space or even trench realm? Especially if the company officer and competent person can reason that other potential hazards seem manageable. In-and-out. Grab-and-go. Arbitrary fast turnaround.  We make OSHA exceptions on the fireground. We are trained to risk allot to save allot. The last why for us to think hard on is- Why did Special Operations stop being special? A very basic Rescue Specialist will at least be up to speed in nine areas: EMS, Hazamt, Rope, Water, Wilderness, Confined Space, Vehicle & Machinery, Trench, and Structural Collapse.  Staying on top of these can be a full time job. Trust me. So why do Chiefs and Emergency Managers seem to think anyone can do these things? They put unqualified people on specialized rescues and teams. Everyone deserves to be saved. Our customers deserve a second chance at life. The people we are sworn to protect.  Think about your family or kids- do you want the best for them? I do. Why people in high places cannot see this- I don’t know.  People have opportunities to take classes.  Virtually all 1006 rescue and 472 hazmat classes are free in my state.  There is a huge distinction between certified and qualified. I would only trust a small percentage of the students that come through our rescue programs to do the job at the level that the people we protect deserve.

Special Operations participants should be vetted, interviewed tested, refreshed annually, and mentally / physically fit for duty.  The percentage of the general population in emergency services, that can perform at this level, is small. Think -FBI HRT, Secret Service CAT, Army Rangers, Coast Guard AST swimmers, Air Force PJs, etc.   I would say somewhere in the realm of 3%, in my state, are guys I’d want responsible for my family at a technical incident. Instead team participation and training are used as political poker chips and virtual entitlement programs for the masses. It takes decision makers that have really done the job to empathize with the rescuers and the people being rescued.  The they  will tell you- “Oh I took the class. It was tough. It was hot. I know how it is. . . “ This is not so. The guy that acts like that guy would probably risk more for his next promotion than he would for a child in a raging creek. That’s no the heart of a real Special Operations rescuer. Rather, they strive to be humble, consummate, professionals. Their calling is tradecraft and a source of pride. They are courageous and daring, not recklessly so, but because of the operators next to him, on his team. Their confidence comes from years of training and experience and the knowledge that the guy next to him would risk all and do all for the team and the people we serve.

The last one was long, but perhaps touches all of us in this field. It is important to use the knowledge and critical thinking responsibly. You will encounter closed minds and we are obligated to honor SOPs / SOGs within our teams and departments. In closing I would like to reiterate: do not accept old ways and the status quo blindly. Take courses, books, instructors, and check the facts. Conduct equipment trials and firehouse experiments. Try new methods and put the issues in the spotlight. Continue to ask why- just do it in the right way. Quietly and humbly enjoy the wins. Take your losses on the chin and sleep well knowing that you know the answer from firsthand experience.

For a downloadable/printable pdf version of this article click here.

Generation Why? - Part 1

I have heard people in fire and rescue refer to Generation Y, as “generation why?” Sometimes these statements would come down in condescending ways from senior officers on the department.  It was usually in reference to the Generation Yer’s asking why a job needed to be done.  At least in my case, the senior guys typically misunderstood my intentions. What I was actually doing, instead of complaining or being insubordinate, is trying to understand the end goals and purpose of a job-so as to maximize the outcome and efficiency.  We are the generation that changes their email passwords on Outlook, help insert functions into Excel, and a host of other daily tech solutions- so maybe we can come up with a better way, faster way, or more positive outcome. –But not necessarily by blindly following orders. In other words- asking why is not a bad thing. In fact, its what I contend rescuers should do more often.

Generation Y is generally considered to be those born during the 1980’s and early 90’s. Stereotypes for Generation Y include laziness, a sense of entitlement, and requiring praise. In actuality this demographic is very “tech savvy” (think gear), ambitious, family oriented, and are team players with good communication skills. The latter are desirable characteristics, but the “why” and the questioning is a characteristic that should transcend all generations on the job. So let’s set the stage for this reasoning. . .

Question Everything! Consider that an order. Not at the wrong time. Not during an emergency. Not in an insubordinate or disrespectful way. Remember your station in the department and be always humble. Asking why we do something is the first step in understanding SOP/SOGs, our history and the mechanics of the problem. I have little patience or regard for statements like “Because we have always done it that way,” “Just because I said so,” The words “always” and “never” used too liberally in rescue. And finally the perpetual get-out-of-jail-free words. . . “for safety” -without due explanation.

Meaningful questioning elevates rescuers to a world of critical thinking. Critical thinking is defined as "the process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating information to reach an answer or conclusion" and also "disciplined thinking that is clear, rational, open-minded, and informed by evidence"(dictionary.com). Our end goal is to improve the mission to save those that others cannot, all-the-while keeping our rescuers as safe as is prudent. To accomplish this we must continually evaluate and ask “why do we do the things we do?” and “how can we improve our mission?”

There are answers out there. Rescuers must seek them out.  One might start at the station or home front. The next source may be on the web, in books, or videos.  Let’s also focus on the instructors:  if your instructor cannot satisfactorily answer “why,” then you need to find a new one or seek knowledge elsewhere. There are allot of hacks and parrots out there that are mass-produced and label themselves instructors.  Instructors aren’t supposed to know everything, but a good one will admit that, and know how to find the answer to your question.

In the next article, we will examine some rescue "why's?" that will generate some spirited debate around the day room. We won't cover each topic exhaustively, but we will open the door to some research and critical thinking.

You can download or print a PDF copy of this article by clicking here.

Can You Push Fire? YES!

I can't tell you how many people I have heard say "You can't push fire, they proved it". Well they (NIST and UL) produced an incredible amount of research for firefighters to use in order to make conditions safer and tactics more effective. I have seen countless firefighters throw around the "push fire" term as if it were a catch phrase. The fact of the matter is that an inappropriately used hose stream can and will "push" fire. Now, I know many of you are thinking that the hose stream isn't pushing the fire and that I am wrong in saying that. Well, call it what you want but a hose stream can manipulate the flow paths that we are talking about and whether you believe the stream itself is moving the fire or the influence of that stream is changing the flow path, both cause the fire to migrate to other areas. In my next few articles I will be showing you some videos I am putting together about nozzle selection and the effects of fog nozzles, smoothbore nozzles and their uses. Until then watch the video below and you answer the question "Can you push fire?".  

If you have watched the above video and still think we cannot push fire with a hose stream then what would you call it? We can argue that the "Water" isn't pushing fire and I completely understand that debate. However, if we continually tell new firefighters that water cannot push fire then we are leaving out a massive amount of information that they need to know. I believe it is much more important for us to agree that using our nozzles incorrectly can contribute to fire migrating to other areas of the structure than to say that it doesn't and that the change in ventilation or flow path is what caused it.

I will spend much more time in the coming articles explaining the movement of air with nozzles, pressurization of spaces with nozzles and the relationship between GPM, Nozzle Reaction, Heat Absorption, and the advantages and disadvantages of the smoothbore nozzle and the fog nozzle.

Hand Method for Friction Loss

In my last article, I talked about memorization as a method for figuring friction loss on the fire scene. In this article we will talk about another fire ground method… the hand method. This method requires a little bit of arithmetic that can become confusing in stressful situations. However, it still is a simple method that can be easily mastered. There are a lot of extremely good pump operators out there that prefer this method. It is similar to the memorization method, in the sense that we will be talking about 1 ¾ diameter hose and all friction loss is figured in 100 feet hose lengths. One major difference between the two is the fact that the memorization method is exact and the hand method is not. It will be plus or minus a couple of psi every time you figure it, but differences will be minuscule and you will probably never find them on the pump panel. Keep in mind this is still just friction loss. You will still have to add your nozzle pressure in order to get your pump discharge pressure. We have provided a training video below but if you continue reading we will go into detail about how to use the Hand Method for calculating friction loss.

So, lets get started. Here again we will be talking about fog nozzles. Remember, most fog nozzles have four gallons per minute settings… 95gpm, 125gpm, 150gpm, and 200gpm. Now, hold up your left or right hand and spread your fingers. I’m right handed so I will be using my left hand for my descriptions. Imagine your fingers are the gallons per minute settings on the nozzle. Starting with your thumb. The thumb will be 95, index finger 125, middle finger 150, ring finger 175, and pinky finger 200. You can also use these GPM settings for rough estimates on smoothbore nozzle flows if you know them.

STEP 1

The first step is to imagine your GPM settings across your fingertips. This would start with the thumb (95 or 100 GPM) then continue across the remaining fingers. (125, 150, 175, 200 GPM).

STEP 2

The next step is to number your fingers 1-5. You start by placing the #1 on your thumb followed by 2, 3, 4, and 5 on the remaining fingers.

STEP 3

To finish setting up your hand method you will imagine the number 12 in the palm of your hand.

In order to figure the friction loss, all you have to do is multiply 12 by whatever number or finger you need to use. We will use the same scenarios as we did in the last article.

Lets say you are driving one day and you pull up to a car fire. Your officer and firefighter pull the 100ft jump line and you know you need to be flowing 95 GPM. So, you look at your hand and you notice 95 GPM is at the number 1 position. Multiply 1 x 12.

1 x12 = 12psi

 That equals 12. Twelve is your friction loss. If you have a 100psi nozzle just add 100psi. 12psi friction loss plus 100psi nozzle pressure equals 112 pump discharge pressure.

12psi + 100psi = 112psi

You are probably thinking that this isn’t right because it doesn’t equal exactly 114 like the other method. And you are right, it doesn’t. However, I do not know a firefighter in America that can feel a 2psi difference on the end of the nozzle. Its not exact but it will work efficiently.

Next scenario, you are at a structure fire that requires a 200ft line flowing 200gpm.   The 200gpm setting is at the number 5 position on your hand, just multiply 5 x 12. It equals 60.

5 x 12 = 60psi

That is 60psi friction loss per 100ft. We have a 200ft line so 60 plus 60 is 120psi total friction loss. Then add your nozzle pressure, 120 plus 100 equals 220psi.

60psi + 60psi + 100psi = 220psi

That is your pump discharge pressure. The exact pump discharge pressure for this scenario would be 224. Here again, I do not know any firefighter that can tell a 4psi difference on the nozzle. If you are using 75psi low-pressure nozzles, it works the same way; just add 75 instead of 100. In terms of friction loss and pump discharge pressure, there are several ways to figure it. On the scene, there are multiple ways to determine friction loss and only one wrong way; that is not getting a proper amount of water to your firefighters. Without it, they can’t put the fire out and could be put in some serious situations because of it. You, as a pump operator, have to figure out how you want to do it. It may be the hand method, memorization, or something else. It doesn’t matter as long as you get the right amount of water to the guys on the nozzle.   I hope one of these methods will work for you and next time we will be discussing the Subtract 10 method for calculating friction loss in a 2.5" hose.

FOR A DOWNLOADABLE PDF OF THIS ARTICLE CLICK HERE.

Mutual Aid for Memphis

Memphis firefighters have had their share of struggles throughout the past few years. The economic climate has led to station brownouts and company closures.  Now the City of Memphis is attacking the benefits provided for members and retirees. Over the past few years I have had the privilege of meeting, riding and training with members of Rescue 3 in Memphis and I cannot express to you the commitment they have to protecting their citizens. These members are extremely busy and fight working fires nearly everyday.

It amazes me to see the latest solutions to the city's budget problems is to push the financial burden onto the very people that work to protect it. These members have already sacrificed so much for the city and now they are hitting their personal finances. I know of several Memphis firefighters who have had major surgeries and injuries due to the work they perform. These same members have witnessed LODD's and felt the impact we never want to experience. Here is a video reporting the issues from Action News 5 - Memphis, Tennessee The financial impact of firefighter's insurance premiums is utterly shocking.

• Basic Plan Family premiums will rise from $320.05 per month to $921.90; an annual cost of $11,062.80.
• Premier Plan premiums rise from $334.32 per month to $1,328.19; an annual cost of $15,938.28.

These numbers are hard to fathom and during all of these budget battles the City of Memphis is moving forward with a $66 million dollar mall redevelopment...

So how can you help our brothers to provide mutual aid for Memphis. Share this information with anyone you know in the Memphis area, help educate the public on what is happening to their firefighters and police officers and join the I Have Been Negatively Affected by The City Of Memphis Council Vote!! Facebook page for more information.

Denver Fire Department: Leadership So Everyone Goes Home

The National Fallen Firefighter's Foundation has just released it's newest Everyone Goes Home video with the Denver Fire Department. Take the time to watch this and share it with your crews. The National Fallen Firefighter's Foundation has produced some great content to help other departments learn from one another.

I am currently the Lead State Advocate for Everyone Goes Home in the State of Mississippi. If you are unfamiliar with Everyone Goes Home check out the links I have provided that will send you to your own Advocates. They can help you get training material and resources to use at your own fire department. You will find a tremendous amount of resources on the website www.EveryoneGoesHome.com

Here is the link to the Learning Media Center

Here is the link to the Firefighter Life Safety Toolbox Resources

Here is the link to the Video Resources

Here is the link to find your Local State Advocates

Here is a final video message from Chief Billy Goldfeder:

NFFF Cold Water Challenge!

Here is my version of the National Fallen Firefighter's Foundation "Cold Water Challenge". The concept is to challenge five of your friends in order to raise money for a charity of your choice. Instructor Mike Word and myself were challenged by two firefighters in Mississippi; Chris Johnson (Southaven FD) and Mike Hancock (Walls FD). If you accept the NFFF cold water challenge you donate $10 to the NFFF. If you do not accept you are supposed to donate $100 to the NFFF. I decided to challenge the Alabama Fire College, TEEX Fire and Emergency Training, South Carolina Fire Academy, LSU Fire and Emergency Training Institute, and John Russell of the Mississippi State Fire Marshall's Office. We had a great time participating in this event and look forward to more of them.

Here are some pictures from our challenge:

LP Live Fire - Helmet Cam Footage

Check out this helmet cam footage from the Mississippi State Fire Academy during a recruit class Night Burn. This is filmed from a helmet cam attached to an instructor during the LP live fire training for the NFPA 1001-I-II basic recruit course. During the evolutions students learn to control and isolate valves for LP fire events and also fight a simulated vehicle fire. You will see a highlight reel from three different burn props; the Vehicle Fire, "Christmas Tree", and the Pump Flange.

Video was shot with a Fire Cam Mini HD helmet cam.

The footage you saw was filmed at the Mississippi State Fire Academy's LP Live Fire area which consists of five large concrete pads designed specifically to prevent environmental contamination.  These training areas include: a fifty foot flowing fuel fire (LP gas Christmas Tree fire); LP gas tank fire; LP gas tank fire; pump seal fire; twenty foot vertical tank fire with exposures; horizontal tank fire with an exposed small tank truck; and a three story evolution simulating a chemical processing plant fire.

The Mississippi State Fire Academy is located just outside the capitol City of Jackson in Rankin County, Mississippi, on eighty five acres. The Academy features a Fire Research Building which simulates a three-story residential structure with an attic, and a commercial structure with a basement.  The building contains over 4,000 square feet of training space and is equipped with five computer controlled fire/smoke rooms and a Class A burn room with a liquid propane gas fueled fire simulator.  A four (4) story drill tower is also attached to the burn area.  

The campus also features a five-story Drill Tower which provides opportunities for high-rise ladder, rope and firefighting operations.  In addition to this tower, there is a communications tower erected for training purposes. There is also a Hazardous Materials training site consisting of a large train derailment simulation with eleven cars.  Railcars are movable and the training site is piped with liquid/vapor propane for simulated fires and leak simulators.

BullEx Live Fire Demonstrations at FDIC 2014

I put together a few quick clips from the FDIC 2014 BullEx live fire demonstrations for you to see. They showed off their Gas-Fired training props and their Digital Fire training props. During the live fire demonstration you can see them attacking a pressurized vessel fire simulating something like a propane tank with a pop-off valve. You will also see them entering a structural fire prop with a Gas-Fired prop on the first floor and a Digital Fire prop on the second floor. The BullEx Digital Fire training system uses a screen to produce the "fire" image and a smoke machine to generate the smoke inside the structure. You can use a nozzle to attack the fire and the screen senses the flow and will dim as you extinguish it. It produces a very realistic look inside when combined with the smoke generator.

BullEx also had their dumpster and grill live fire props for you to view. These are propane fired props controlled remotely. Lastly, take a look at the inside view of the new digital fire training system.

Are you USAR Ready?

I have had the unfortunate opportunity to work several tornado incidents each with it's own set of obstacles to overcome. I have seen the overwhelming need to be personally prepared for these incidents and for you to not rely on anyone or any agency for assistance.  Whether you respond locally or are deployed on a multi-day mission, you need to be prepared. There are many must have items when you are tasked with search and rescue operations during these disasters. Many of which you can prepare ahead of time or when imminent severe weather is approaching. I put together this video awhile back and thought it might need to be re-posted due to the recent events. Share this information with your fellow rescuers, you can never be to prepared when something like this happens.

If you need help building your own response kit, check out the National Association for Search and Rescue's Pack List.  You can click here to view and print this document.  You can use this list to decide what you believe is relevant to your needs.  I can assure you that you will nearly always need: Batteries, Navigation Equipment (GPS, Lensatic Compass), Flashlights, Boots, Gloves, Helmet, Food to snack on and plenty of WATER!

Even if you believe you are going on a USAR mission, one that will have an urban landscape, it will not be easy to navigate. Urban landscapes turn into wilderness landscapes very quickly after a tornado or hurricane. You will loose road signs, landmarks, electricity and even natural features will become hard to identify in the carnage.

Friction Loss for Beginners

Friction loss is something that is stressed about and is made out to be very difficult for new pump operators.  In reality it isn’t.  This is how the definition is read: Friction is the force resisting the relative motion of solid surfaces, fluid layers, and material elements sliding against each other (Friction, 2013).  Friction Loss is the pressure loss due to the friction.   In this case, the friction is water sliding against the interior of the fire hose. To overcome this, the pump operator must throttle up to ensure that the firefighter, on the nozzle, will have the appropriate amount of water to suppress the fire.   Friction loss can be calculated using mathematical equations which is the Theoretical Method.  You can also calculate friction loss using a series of easy to use methods that do not require a lot of math, these are called Fire-Ground Methods.  For the purpose of this article we will focus on the fire-ground methods.  I feel there is not enough emphasis put on fire-ground methods.  All too often when a new pump operator is being taught friction loss the instructors jump straight to the equations because they are the hardest to grasp.  No offense to the great pump operations instructors out there, but I haven’t seen too many calculators on the fire scene lately.  How can a firefighter figure this stuff out on the scene?  Theoretical calculations are generally used for pre-planning, spec'ing apparatus and calculating problems ahead of time; for instance making pump charts. You do not use theoretical calculations on fire scenes. There are multiple fire-ground methods for 1-¾ line, but I will talk about the one that works best for me… memorization.  Yes, it sounds hard but its not.   Its simple… just memorize the friction loss for the gallonage setting(s) on the nozzle.  Most 100psi adjustable fog nozzles have four settings 95gpm, 125gpm, 150gpm, and 200gpm.  So, all you have to remember is 14, 24, 35, and 62.  These are the exact amounts of friction loss per 100 feet based on the gallonage above.  There is 14psi friction loss per 100 feet when you are flowing 95 gallons per minute.  If you have a 100-foot line your friction loss is 14, if you have a 200-foot line your friction loss is 28.  It works the same way for the other gallonage settings.  For example, if you are flowing 150gpm on a 100-foot line your friction loss is 35, if you are using a 200-foot line you friction loss is 70.  Keep in mind this is just the friction loss; it is not the pressure you pump at the engine.  In order to figure this, you have to take into account nozzle pressure.

Most fog nozzles require a pressure of 100psi or 75psi for it to function properly, this is called the Nozzle Pressure.  So, all you have to do is add 100psi or 75psi (Depending on your nozzle) to whatever your friction loss is and that will be your required Pump Discharge Pressure.  So, lets say you are driving one day and you pull up on a car fire that only requires a 100-foot line.  Your department’s SOPs require you to flow 95gpm while fighting this fire.  This means you have to figure the friction loss, which is 14, and then add it to the nozzle pressure, which is 100.

14 (Friction Loss)+ 100 (Nozzle Pressure) =114psi (Pump Discharge Pressure)

So, 114psi would be your pump discharge pressure.  It works the same way with the 200gpm setting.  If you are at a structure fire and you need to flow 200gpm out of a 200-foot line; first, figure the friction loss, which is 62 per 100.  62 for the first hundred plus 62 for the second hundred equals 124.  After this is figured all you need to do is add the nozzle pressure, in this case it is 100.

124 (Friction Loss) + 100 (Nozzle Pressure) = 224psi (Pump Discharge Pressure)

So, 224psi is your required pump discharge pressure.  This method works the same way on low-pressure fog nozzles.   They usually have a nozzle pressure of 75psi.  So, instead of adding 100psi just add 75psi.  In no way, shape, or form do I claim to be a great pump operator or even a good one for that matter.  I have just figured out what works for me and I can do it efficiently.  You may want to try the hand method… It requires too much on scene math for me.  However, in my next article I will explain it. Until then just click on this: The Pump Discharge Pressure Chart.  You can make your own pump charts for your engine which will tell the pump operator what to pump for each line on your engine.  You just find the gallonage and the length of hose you have, then the chart tells you what pressure to pump the truck.

You can also download a printable PDF version of this article by clicking here.

To read about our contributors including Wes Anderson click here.

Friction. In (2013). Wikipedia. Wikimedia. Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friction

Fire Attack for the Modern Era

If you have your ear to the ground on the latest research in fire tactics then you should be familiar with some of the findings that have come to light.  The LA County Fire Department has put together a really good video on one of the most common bread and butter fire attack methods that nearly all of us have in our play books.  Take a look at the video below and if the tactical recommendations surprise you then read into this article a little deeper.  There are many things you should know about the modern fire behavior concerns we have.

For more information on the latest fire research check out “Scientific Research for the Development of More Effective Tactics” – an online course that serves as a culmination of the full-scale field experiments performed on Governors Island by the Fire Department of New York, NIST and UL. UL FSRI Director Steve Kerber shared, “This training program presents the most up to date fire dynamics research in a way firefighters at all levels can comprehend.  It builds off of all of the UL and NIST firefighter research to date and provides students with the science they need to examine their tactical approaches.  Tactical considerations are presented with video and data in a way that is easy to understand.  For the firefighters out there that want all the details, buttons allow access to all of the data graphs, experimental video and relevant FDNY procedures.”

CLICK ON THE PATCH BELOW TO GO TO THE NEW ONLINE COURSE!

Understanding the most up to date research and attack methods will help you make the right decisions on the fireground.  While no course can prepare you for the real world, this information will definitely fit in your toolbox.  This is a great course to share with your crews. Feel free to comment in the section below or if you have any questions feel free to contact us.

Where did you come from?

How many times have you heard a firefighter say that "he" forgot where "he" came from?  My question is, do we all know where we actually come from?  In our fast paced world many new firefighters have absolutely no knowledge of their own fire department's history.  I am not sure if this is due to a lack of interest in fire service history or a lack of mentoring from the veteran members of the department.  If you have never read "Pride and Ownership" by ret. Chief Rick Lasky, I highly recommend purchasing a copy.  Chief Lasky discusses several points about how we enable firefighters to take pride in what they do and to own a piece of the department.

I can remember growing up in Jackson, MS and every time a Q-siren would wind up I would listen for the other firehouses.  I could identify them from the house, first Engine 19 and Truck 19, then Rescue 17 followed by Engine 7 and 16.  I loved the sounds of Q-sirens throughout the city and when I was younger I remember watching many working fires. I think this is one of the reasons I enjoy hearing the stories from the past and learning about the history of where we all come from.  I recently saw one of these iconic Jackson, MS pumpers in what appears to be it's final resting place and can't help but think of all the stories that rig was a part of.

One of the greatest qualities of our fire service is the deep rooted traditions established from our history. Unfortunately, I have noticed a trend in many departments moving away from these traditions.  For some reason we have begun this idea that you only wear a Class A uniform for a funeral.  If we constantly walk around in BDU's and t-shirts with dirty duty boots do you think we deserve the same respect our ancestors had?  I am not saying that we shouldn't adjust our tactics to correspond with the challenges we face today.  I am saying that our fire department's desperately need respectable traditions brought back.  If the members of the firehouse are wearing dirty uniforms and riding on a pumper cluttered with disorganized equipment then the new hire will follow that same "tradition".  It is extremely hard for new members to take pride in what they are doing if they are embarrassed by what they see.  I played football in the SEC, one of the most challenging conferences in the country, and I was fortunate to play for Coach David Cutcliffe.  Coach Cutcliffe would always tell us "Leave this place better than you found it."  We need this mindset in the firehouse.

If you are a young firefighter take the time to ask questions to the veterans, they will appreciate your interest.  If you are a veteran it is your responsibility to instill this interest into your crews.  You owe it to the ones who came before you.  If your department still performs ceremonies and traditions, I applaud you.  If your department does not, then be the firefighter that helps bring them back.

Firefighter Bailout! Are You Ready?

As firefighters, we often feel invincible and believe that we will always be able to perform whatever duty we are called to perform without negative consequences.  At the same time, we are continually reminded every couple of days that we are not invincible with the announcement of another line of duty death.  Take a look at the video.  Would you be able to escape if ladders had not been in place?  How about on an upper floor out of reach of a portable or aerial ladder?

Many people discount the need to be ready to bale because a lack of hi-rise buildings in their district.  According to NFPA & OSHA statistics, 90% of all falls from a distance of over 10' are fatal when free falling a distance of 10' or greater.  If you operate in a two story or taller building, it would be smart to be prepared.

Although every major turnout manufacturer that I know of is offering a firefighter bailout kit or escape harness, many fire departments are not purchasing them due to the added cost and trying to operate on already thin budgets.  As firefighters, this leaves us on our own to do what is necessary to be prepared in terms of training and equipment should we have to make an emergency escape.  What follows is a ridiculously easy and relatively inexpensive option to be prepared.

Many turnout manufacturers are now offering turnouts with nylon belts and plastic quick connect buckles instead of suspenders.  These pants already have loops, Velcro tabs, or both to keep the belt attached to the pants.  If you are currently wearing this style pant, remove that belt.  All it is good for is holding your pants up.  Replace it with whatever truck style belt you already have or can afford.

These are the same pants, but the supplied belt is removed and replaced with a “Gut Belt” that I had hanging in my locker.  In addition to holding my pants up, this belt:

• Is manufactured to NFPA 1983 requirements for ladder/escape belts.

• Rated at 8000 lbs.

• Can increase visibility if equipped with reflective and/or fluorescent trim.

• Has hardware that exceeds NFPA load specifications.

• Has multiple points of attachment.

• Can be utilized with existing factory loops and tabs.

• In conjunction with other equipment for personal escape and firefighter rescue, would be far more effective than a nylon belt and plastic buckle.  Also useful with, ladder work, carrying other tools or accessories, tags lines, etc.

What if you’re using turnout pants equipped with suspender tabs and no loops or tabs to hold a belt?  No problem with these inexpensive velcro loops that hang on your suspender tabs.  These are not holding any weight. They just provide a means to keep an escape/ladder style belt on your pants so it can easily be utilized.  These are manufactured by Extreme Rescue.  I picked them up at FDIC.  You can visit their website at xtremerescue.com.

For me, this is a good option to provide a balance between purchasing and dealing with the bind of a complete escape or rappelling type system with leg loops and being completely unprepared.

Lastly, keep in mind this is part of a system.  A belt alone will not do you any good without at least a carabiner, a section of rope (how much is up to you), and practice, practice, practice.

If you have ideas, questions, concerns, or comments; please post them below or on our Facebook page.

*I am not associated with, nor profit from anything affiliated with Xtreme Rescue.

FDIC 2014 Recap

For those of you unable to attend FDIC 2014 I have put together a summary of the events, innovations and must see apparatus that caught my eye. During FDIC it seems as though the entire city of Indianapolis is transformed into a place no cop should have to go... Let's start with a few of my favorite apparatus at this years conference.  Columbus, Ohio had a very functional pumper built by Sutphen and spec'd by some guys that really thought out their tactics.  Low hose beds are a favorite with me along with tool accessibility.  Charlotte, NC also brought unique design specs into the construction of their pumper built by Smeal.  You will notice it carries two ladder racks, double decker rear hose bed storage, and some very specific mounting options for tools and equipment.  Lastly, Dekalb County, GA put together a really well designed pumper built by Pierce Mfg.  It features a very low hose bed, front suction, side ladder storage with step-ups to access.  Take a look at the gallery and comment below to let us know what you think. [flagallery gid=3]

The next gallery features several innovations that we saw at the exhibit halls.  You will see an assortment of interesting products and design ideas.

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On Friday night we attended the Firefighter Turnout hosted by Paratech Fire & Rescue Equipment, Amkus, TECGEN XTREME, Black Diamond Fire and Fire Cam Police and Fire Cameras.  We had a blast and had the opportunity to meet several fire service social media giants and product designers like Rhett Fleitz (The Fire Critic), Willie Wines Jr. (Iron Fireman), Andrew Catron (Model City Firefighter), Isaac Frazier (Tactical Advantage Training), Paul Hasenmeier (First Due Tackle) and Rob Shield (Fire Cam).

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Thank you to all we met and we hope to meet you again soon.

Situational Awareness Video

This is a very good video put together by Peoria Fire Training.  The video details a strip mall fire on 99th Avenue just north of Peoria in Arizona.  Take a look at the video, share it with others, and take a look at some of the information below.

Situational Awareness and Decision Making

As firefighters we often face a multitude of decisions that need to be made at a moments notice.  This situations are very hard to prepare for on the spot, they must be churning in your mind before they happen.  Fundamentally what we do at a structure fire hardly ever changes.  However, the situation we are faced with is never the same.  We must rely on those fundamental play calls that every department should have down to a science.  Then when we encounter extraordinary situations we have the ability to audible to a solution.

So, if we have the plays mastered and we have rolled scenarios through our minds prior to the incident then our primary focus should be to recognize the blind side that can come at any moment.  All other functions on the fireground should be fluid and understood so that we remain open to audibles and call them when we need to.

Hats off to the Peoria Fire Department for sharing this information.  With training videos like these thousands of firefighters can learn from their experiences and recognize those red flags that are present on many of our day to day incidents.