By Forest Reeder
Most fire departments handle their share of routine alarm responses that in most cases turn out to be nothing. Keeping crews motivated and working within SOGs in regards to PPE, and keeping the focus on tool assignments and size-up are among the challenges to repeated routine responses.
Fire alarm activations are one type of routine responses that can result in complacent crew responses. Consider these responses as opportunities to learn more about the building, installed systems, occupancy hazards, and to practice the standard parts of your emergency response procedures.
Download this week’s drill as a pdf HERE.
Forest Reeder began his fire service career in 1979. He currently serves as Battalion Chief / Director of Training & Safety with the Pleasantview Fire Protection District (www.plvw.org) and is the Director of Training for Southwest United Fire Districts (www.sufd.org). In these capacities, he is responsible for the design, implementation and coordination of in-service training activities as well as a full-service fire training academy program. Forest holds numerous Illinois fire service certifications and holds a Masters Degree in Public Safety Administration from Lewis University.
