Your FDIC International 2017 “Backstage Pass”

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Last year, FDIC International 2016 drew 32,439 attendees-1,403 of them international, representing 59 countries; there were 780 exhibitors. Of those attending, 94 percent of them said they want to attend FDIC International 2017. Here’s why. Read on for your FDIC International 2017 exclusive “Backstage Pass,” a small sampling of what’s new, what’s popular, and what’s not to be missed.

Keynoters

The Opening Ceremony, to be held Wednesday, April 26, 2017, will feature a keynote by Captain Angela Hughes of the Baltimore County (MD) Fire Department, president of the International Association of Women in Fire and Emergency Services (i-Women).

“It wasn’t until later in my career that I realized the importance of attending conferences. I have had the privilege of being an instructor at FDIC for the past three years,” Hughes says. She relates that she took a class where the instructor began the session by stating, “This will probably be the worst class you have ever taken!” At that very moment, she was profoundly impacted to make a difference in the lives of those who would follow as students. “My goal has been to present curriculum in a manner that is comprehensive to the unique learning style of my students. By doing this, students who are auditory learners have the same success rates as those who learn by visual or kinesthetic techniques. I believe this makes learning both fun and individualized,” Hughes adds.

She calls FDIC the “Super Bowl” of fire service conferences. “With an annual attendance of more than 30,000 people, it is fair to say that FDIC is one of the greatest tools for advancing the skill set of fire service personnel. The conference staff ensures that the experience is top notch for instructors, firefighters, first line supervisors, and chief officers,” she says. “The FDIC instructors are the ‘cream of the crop’ and provide each student with fantastic resources and tools to implement in the workplace.”

New this year, the i-Women will host a one-day leadership event during the preconference workshops. “It is an excellent networking opportunity for both men and women. And, speaking from personal experience, this is an occasion to meet lifelong friends and amazing firefighters,” Hughes continues.

Hughes recalls her initial reaction at being asked to keynote: “When Chief Bobby Halton announced at the FDIC Advisory Board meeting that I was to be the 2017 keynote speaker, I asked ‘Is he kidding?’ Once I realized it was not a practical joke, I was filled with surprise, excitement, disbelief, and a touch of fear! I am honored and humbled to be selected for a role of this magnitude. Last year, I listened to keynoter Steve Pegram tell his story and share how each member of the audience can be a hero. During his message, I realized that I had been gifted with one of the greatest opportunities in my professional career.”

There are numerous topics of importance to the fire service. However, Hughes says her heart’s desire is to mentor and inspire younger firefighters: “My son, Joshua, encouraged me to speak of the lessons I’ve learned in the fire department. One of the greatest gifts a person can give is to make a difference in the lives of others. The message I will share will focus on the experiences of my career; what I have learned; and how each member of the audience has an opportunity to make a difference by serving others, by being a leader, and by impacting the community at large.”

There are many emerging issues that the fire service needs to address. “One that I feel very passionate about is the safety of our members. We need to be more vigilant of our ever changing environment and be constant students of our craft,” Hughes says.

“We are fortunate to have access to professionals like Dan Madrzykowski and Steve Kerber [from the UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute]. These leaders have dedicated their career to developing and implementing strategies on working smarter and safer. Also, the instructors from the International Society of Fire Service Instructors selflessly dedicate hours researching and developing tactics to adapt to the new fireground. We have a responsibility to ourselves and to our teammates not to resist change but to embrace and view these changes as improvements.”

The General Session, to be held Thursday, April 27, 2017, will feature a keynote by Mike McEvoy, Fire Engineering EMS technical editor and EMS coordinator for Saratoga County, New York.

“I remember first being approached to teach at FDIC by then-editor Bill Manning around 1996. I presented at my first FDIC a year or two later and have been there ever since,” McEvoy recalls. “I actually started teaching first aid and CPR classes when I was in high school. I’ve always been in some instructional capacity since then.”

McEvoy attends numerous conferences during the year. How does FDIC stack up? “FDIC is one of the largest conferences I attend annually, and I find the brotherhood and shared connections in the fire service really enhance the learning experience. It’s simple to approach, meet, and hang out with virtually any instructor at the conference. That’s not the kind of experience you would ordinarily encounter,” McEvoy explains.

He says he was incredibly honored and humbled to be asked to keynote. “It’s not every (or really any) day that the ‘EMS guy’ gets to speak at a General Session,” McEvoy adds.

When asked why his speech is important to the audience and the fire service as a whole, McEvoy says, “I really believe that we all make a difference in the lives of others each and every day. I also think we miss opportunities to accept praise from others and be proud of our accomplishments. My message should help attendees see themselves in a more positive light and provide some tools to improve morale in those around them.”

He thinks the most pressing issue in the fire service today is “a need to redefine our mission along the lines of what our communities need from us. In some cases, that means improving our EMS response; in others, it might mean not doing EMS because someone else does it better. If we fail to grow, develop, and learn to partner more effectively with other emergency service providers, we’re not going to have a very bright future.”

When asked who his FDIC role models are and why, McEvoy says, “The members of the Indianapolis Fire Department have always been my role models. They are a quiet yet powerful force in making FDIC successful year after year. Their service and understanding are amazing.”

Denise Smith, professor of health and exercise sciences at Skidmore College and research scientist at the University of Illinois Fire Service Institute, will be a featured speaker during the General Session. She explains how she got into teaching: “I first taught at FDIC in 1998 and have taught almost every year since 2003. I am a college professor, so I do a lot of teaching. But, I began spending a lot of time and energy instructing for the fire service in the early 2000s when I realized that far too many firefighters were not aware of the research documenting the dangers associated with the body’s response to firefighting.”

“I was speechless when I was asked to be a featured speaker. I know what an impact the speakers at opening ceremonies have had on me and have always been incredibly impressed by their powerful messages. I am still completely amazed that I have received the invitation to do something this special,” she says. “My topic is ‘The Heart of a Firefighter.’ It addresses what makes firefighters so effective and how we need to nurture those traits that are definitional for firefighters.”

What does Smith think is the most pressing issue facing the fire service today? “How to keep focus and effectiveness when there are multiple pressing issues that need attention, including understanding fire behavior, implementing the most effective tactics, understanding the political and financial realities, and seriously addressing health and safety issues that continue to undermine effectiveness and increase risk,” she says.

Smith shares what sets her experience at FDIC apart from other conferences: “FDIC is a great conference for several reasons. First and foremost, the firefighters who attend come with a mindset of learning and improving. This allows for great classroom discussions and interactions. Also, the programming is fantastic. There are always other speakers I want to listen to and learn from. And, the exhibit hall gives me an opportunity to see what is new in gear, technology, apparatus, and so on.”

Awards

Chief (Ret.) Rick Lasky, Lewisville (TX) Fire Department, is the 2017 recipient of the Tom Brennan Lifetime Achievement Award. Lasky has attended FDIC since 1991, has taught at FDIC since 1996, and has served on the FDIC Advisory Board since 1996.

“Early in my career, I noticed that many of my fire service idols and mentors were all teaching, and I saw the impact they were having on the fire service; I wanted to be a part of that like there was no tomorrow. I wanted to make a difference. I starting teaching Firefighter I and II classes and a variety of hazmat classes in the Chicagoland area, which led me to teach for the Illinois Fire Service Institute, which allowed me to teach with my mentors and idols, which was absolutely incredible!” Lasky explains his teaching history.

What sets his experience at FDIC apart from attending other conferences? “First, FDIC is the greatest show on earth. Second, the overall experience is like no other. The classroom, workshop, and hands-on offerings are limitless and on every topic imaginable. The hardest part is picking and choosing which classes to attend, which in itself is difficult because there are so many great programs. The networking in between classes, on the exhibit floors, in the hallways, in the restaurants, in the hotel lobbies, even on the street, is all phenomenal. You can’t walk anywhere without an opportunity to better yourself, learn something, or make a new friend. It’s an energy infusion like no other. I’ve said for more than 20 years, it’s like Disney World for firefighters, except they wear helmets instead of mouse ears!” Lasky says.

He continues, “It was and still is overwhelming and emotional to be picked for the Lifetime Achievement Award. I love the fire service more than life itself. My family comes first, but I love our profession and have been honored to work alongside some incredible firefighters, officers, and instructors. But to be selected to receive an award that has been presented to so many of my mentors and idols, many of whom I now call great friends, and an award named after one of my heroes, Chief Tom Brennan, I think the word ‘overwhelming’ falls way short. It is an incredible honor, and I am eternally grateful.”

Lasky thinks the most pressing issue in the fire service today is “teaching and training new firefighters to become senior firefighters, then old firefighters, and finally retired firefighters. You do this by bringing all the generations together, volunteer and career firefighters (and it doesn’t matter, a firefighter is a firefighter), all to a point where they realize that the day you stop learning is the day you need to change career paths, that learning never stops and that you need to train every day. Take the experience and knowledge from the more tenured firefighters and couple that with the constant stream of new information coming our way if you truly want to be that great firefighter. Above everything else, a well-trained firefighter who never stops learning, trains every chance he can, and is passionate about being a firefighter becomes that great yet humble firefighter who in the end truly gets ‘it’ and understands what the fire service is all about.”

“Chiefs Tom Brennan and Alan Brunacini are two of my mentors/role models. If firefighters and officers would work hard to accomplish just a fraction of what they have done for all of us, the fire service would be better and ultimately safer for everyone both in and out of the firehouse. There are too many more to list here who have truly had an impact on me and my career,” Lasky adds.

The presentation of the Tom Brennan Lifetime Achievement Award will take place during the General Session on Thursday, April 27, 8:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m., in the Indianapolis Convention Center Sagamore Ballroom. The award is named for Tom Brennan, who was the editor of Fire Engineering for eight years and a technical editor.

Other awards presented at FDIC include the Ray Downey Courage and Valor Award, which comes with a medal and a cash award of $35,000, and the 2017 Fire Engineering/ISFSI George D. Post Instructor of the Year Award. Both recipients will be selected this month.

Hands-On Training

What’s new in hands-on training evolutions this year? Here is just a sampling of the 24 offerings.

Nate Paulsberg, co-owner of Elevated Safety LLC, explains, “Members of Elevated Safety have been attending FDIC for the past 10 years; this will be our first time instructing. We will be teaching ‘Tower Rescue Operations’ for the professional rescuer this year on an actual telecommunications tower. Students will get an introduction to how to perform a rescue of a victim at height on a cell tower. We will cover first-in operations, cell site orientation, and specific equipment needed to perform this type of rescue. The hands-on portion will include climb rappels off the tower, work positioning, anchoring, tower control-based rescue scenarios, and ground control-based rescue scenarios.”

Paulsberg continues, “Year in and year out, tower climbers have one of the highest accident/fatality rates of any job in the United States. For many in the fire service, this is a mind shift from a traditional ‘top-down’ approach to a ‘bottom-up’ rescue approach, meaning the rescuers will need to climb up and past the victim to facilitate the rescue. Not only do the rescuers need to be highly skilled, but they also need to have the proper equipment and be trained in tower-specific techniques to facilitate a rescue while keeping the victim and themselves safe.”

Eric Dreiman, assistant director of training for the Indianapolis (IN) Fire Department, first attended FDIC in 1993 and hasn’t missed a year since. “It is amazing how much FDIC has grown since then. In 2002, I started helping with various FDIC HOT classes. I have been a HOT instructor for the past six years.”

“Our HOT class, ‘Vent Enter Isolate Search: Addressing Flow Path and Victim Removal,’ focuses on a wide variety of scenarios and techniques to allow firefighters to experience what it is like to conduct VEIS operations at a fire scene. With the experienced instructors on our team (270-plus years), we are able to explain what is required to size up a scene and determine when and where to conduct VEIS to give fire victims the greatest chance of survival while minimizing the risks to firefighters. Firefighters will use all of the same tools and equipment available to them on the fireground and search for victims in simulated fire conditions to create realistic and challenging situations,” Dreiman explains.

He continues, “Each year, approximately 3,000 civilians die as the result of fires. Our goal is to teach VEIS to firefighters so that we can reduce this number. VEIS was developed back in the 1940s and is responsible for saving thousands of lives over the years. The more proficient and informed a firefighter is about VEIS, the more likely he will be to conduct it effectively to save a life. Many firefighters believed that VEIS is only for large departments or for departments with dedicated truck companies. In reality, any two firefighters with the proper training and equipment can conduct VEIS and potentially save a life. Life safety is always our top priority as firefighters. It is important for firefighters to know how to conduct this search technique.”

Lieutenant Katie Johnson, Prince George’s County (MD) Fire/EMS Department, says, “I am currently an IAFF master instructor for the Fireground Survival Program and have taught departments all over the country. ‘Fireground Drills from the Street: Leverage, Force, and Aggression’ is a reinforcement of basic but perishable fireground skill sets we often cut corners to accomplish. Members then find at the time of application, when these skills are needed, that because of fatigue, crew structure/staffing, escalation of the incident, and so on, action is not possible or sloppy.”

She continues, “This evolution is applicable to all levels of experience and service time. It is a great refresher for seasoned firefighters, reinforces newly acquired skill sets for entry level members, and bridges a gap between brute strength and technique. It is a great refresher for all levels of expertise, fosters a constructive learning environment-especially for females, and provides great instruction for station officers to use when training subordinates with similar smaller stature challenges.”

Debra Taylor is the cadaver lab coordinator at the College of Health Professions, St. Vincent Indianapolis. “ ‘Field Amputation Training/Cadaver Lab’ offers airway practice, gross anatomy, and emergency field amputation training in a lab setting to prepare paramedics for the dreaded day when they might need to make a decision to amputate an extremity to save a life. Paramedics who are staffing fire apparatus may come on an incident where they need to know when, how, and why to do an emergency amputation to save someone’s life. This lab is set up to prepare paramedics to make an informed decision about amputating an extremity in an extreme emergency,” Taylor says.

Captain Aaron Heller, Hamilton Township (NJ) Fire District #9, says, “I have been attending FDIC since 1998 as a student and then as an instructor. In ‘Commercial Firefighting Operations,’ we will cover evolutions aimed at handling challenges presented by occupancies such as big box stores, strip malls, and warehouses. Challenges include forcible entry, rope-assisted search, and large-caliber hoseline operations as they relate to fires in these complex buildings.”

He continues, “Almost all communities have these structures, but very few fire departments and academies take the opportunity to address these tactics and instead simply rely on residential tactics for commercial buildings. That is a recipe for disaster that we hope to change for our attendees.”

Gary Lane, Rogue Fire LLC, says, “Our HOT evolution is just one part of ‘Residential Primary Search: Making the Grab.’ It focuses on simple methods that allow the engine company to begin searching for victims as they are working on getting to the fire as well as decision making and communication skills during the chaos inside that we’ve all experienced.”

He adds, “The topic of search is important because it puts the victim at the top of our priority list. We are here for them.”

Firefighter Matthew Zimpfer, Fire Department of New York, says, “I have been attending FDIC for five years prior to receiving the honor of my own HOT class in 2017 as the lead instructor for ‘Tactical Strength Conditioning.’ I have had a love for fitness and have been training for 20-plus years. I have had exposure to every role in the tactical field (military, paramedic, police officer, and career firefighter). Seeing the ever growing rise in the fitness industry, combined with the lack of education and death/injury statistics in the fire service, I felt a need to submit a proposal for a 2017 HOT evolution.”

He continues, “To be a sound tactician, I firmly believe you need to be proficient in three areas. First and foremost is mindset. A positive mental attitude, mental strength, discipline, and an overall survivor’s attitude are key to any area of your life both professionally and personally. Second is being proficient at your job and knowing your skill set through training, drills, and continued reading. Third, and what we will be covering, is fitness. Building or maintaining a level of strength, power, endurance, and flexibility and becoming functionally fit to be able to execute your assigned duties are crucial for your own safety as well as the safety of your teammates. Also, cardiac disease is the number-one killer among firefighters in the United States and accounts for 51 to 56 percent of all fatalities each year. Soft tissue injuries (sprains and strains) account for 52 to 55 percent of all minor and moderate injuries in the fire service. Some are preventable; however, others are from a lack of education, poor mechanics, or simply not being well conditioned. In some instances, these injuries can be prevented or reduced in severity. Our goal is for our students to go home with a sound knowledge of four key elements: assessment to individually tailor a workout, strength and power, energy circuit, and nutrition and supplementation.”

“Whether you’ve never trained before and you’re looking to make a change in your life or you have been training for 20 years, I ask you keep an open mind. We are trying to influence tactical athletes with an attempt to remove the ‘70s and ‘80s mindset of bodybuilding and training specific body parts. We strive to make you more functionally fit and to do so safely. Any trainer can make you sore or tired. We are looking to make you better and more functionally fit to safely execute your duties as a firefighter,” Zimpfer says. “We look forward to reaching out and educating new and experienced firefighters, instilling in them the discipline to maintain a level of fitness to carry them through their career and then into life after their service, where they can hopefully enjoy a long, healthy, and functional retirement.”

Workshops

Here are a few of the 80 workshops being offered this year.

“Live Fire Training Simplified”: Battalion Chief Chris Hubbard, Hanover (VA) Fire EMS, says, “This program will provide a brief overview including the history of the NFPA 1403 standard, near misses, and line-of-duty deaths involving live fire training. Participants will concentrate on the key functional roles of instructor in charge, safety officer, ignition officer, and the instructors in an effort to address a variety of challenges. We will review studies, discuss tricks of the trade, and focus on creative ideas for policy creation.”

“Today the fire service is expected to perform more with less; live fire training is no exception. This workshop will review and discuss several methods to deliver quality live fire training that is both effective and compliant while remaining fiscally responsible,” he adds.

“FCSN Taking Action in the Fire Service: Cancer Prevention Train-the-Trainer”: Cancer kills firefighters at devastating rates. “Cancer has been the top cause of career firefighter line-of-duty deaths for the past 14 years,” says Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) President Bryan Frieders, a Pasadena (CA) deputy chief. “We know that from IAFF data. We also know there are practical, achievable ways to reduce firefighters’ exposures to carcinogens. That’s why the FCSN is coming back to FDIC with our new cancer-prevention train-the-trainer course.”

Russell Osgood, the FCSN’s national instructor coordinator and longtime New Hampshire state director, will deliver the four-hour workshop. “FDIC has such a huge following,” Osgood says. “It gives us an opportunity to get FCSN’s firefighter-cancer messages out on a grand scale. FDIC attracts the movers and shakers of the fire service. I know that being able to teach our cancer-prevention program to these leaders is going to make a huge impact across the nation. The goal is to stop the cancer epidemic in the fire service. We can only do it by sharing the most recent research and best practices.”

The FCSN provides cancer-prevention information in firefighter-friendly fashion. “This course was the core of the FCSN’s two-month cancer-prevention training program for all 1,450 Boston Fire Department members in 2015,” Osgood says. The course has received positive feedback from firefighters of all ranks across America. Attendees will receive a full complement of cancer-prevention instructor resources to take home to their departments. “Occupational cancer takes an emotional and financial toll on families,” he said. “We want firefighters to know that even small changes now can make a big difference in their future.”

After the training, shift gears with great stand-up comedy and $3 drafts at FCSN’s Comedy vs. Cancer at FDIC on Tuesday, April 25, 2017, at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. The comedy fundraiser benefits the FCSN, which has provided assistance and one-on-one mentoring to thousands of cancer-stricken firefighters and their families since 2005. Chief Ron Kanterman returns as host, and the FCSN will announce the lineup and details about tickets and premium seating soon, so be sure to save the date!

(If you have received a cancer diagnosis, please call the FCSN’s toll-free number at 1-866-994-FCSN (3276), or use the “request assistance” link at firefightercancersupport.org. One call, one click of a “send” button, is all it takes to rally your brother and sister firefighters. To learn more about the FCSN and how you can get involved, visit firefightercancersupport.org.)

“O₂X Human Performance”: Adam La Reau, Co-Founder, O₂X Human Performance, says, “We’re very excited to be a part of the world’s preeminent firefighting training conference and exhibition and feel privileged to have the opportunity to introduce O₂X Human Performance to the conference and to this great community of firefighting professionals. We believe we have a lot to offer the event and the firefighting community but expect to learn even more ourselves.”

“In the first hour, we’ll provide an overview of O₂X; our key personnel; and our innovative program based on the latest in human performance science, research, and training. The founders of O₂X come from a background of special operations military service and are extreme athletes and ultra-marathoners. We also enlist the services of leading national authorities in many fields of human performance. Attendees will learn about the five pillars of our human performance program, which are conditioning, nutrition, sleep, stress, and resilience.”

“The second hour will focus on nutrition from O₂X specialist Dr. Maria Urso. Through this course, we will cover optimizing energy, recovery, meal planning, and daily implementation.”

“In the third hour, we’ll introduce attendees to one of our key specialists, Maria Trozzi, who will focus on the importance of resilience to overall health and performance. Trozzi is a professor of pediatrics at Boston University School of Medicine and a national leader in mental health, bereavement, and resilience who has worked on site at tragedies such as 9/11, Columbine, Colorado, and Newtown, Connecticut.”

“The final hour will focus on conditioning for maximizing performance, longevity, and reducing injuries. Every aspect of our presentation will relate to our ‘Eat. Sweat. Thrive.’ methodology and the impact it can have on the health, well-being, and overall performance of first responders.”

“Firefighting is a very strenuous profession, and the reality is that firefighters face elevated risks of cancer, cardiac disease, orthopedic injuries, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Our program combats those health issues and provides a path to living a healthy, high-performance life. It helps firefighters increase personal productivity and improve their on-the-job physical and mental readiness. The long-term benefit is that firefighters will approach retirement stronger, healthier, and better prepared to enjoy life after work,” La Reau adds.

“Multimedia Training for Firefighters: Residential Fires and Cardiovascular Health”: Sr. Research Scientist Prabodh Panindre, New York University, “Our team, including NYU researchers and fire department leadership, will educate the audience on residential fire dynamics and strategies to improve firefighter cardiovascular health. Fire service members of all ranks, age, educational background, and demographics have been affected by these issues.

“Since the 1970s, the annual number of structure fires has dropped more than 50 percent, but the rate of traumatic deaths on the fireground has increased from 1.8 per 100,000 fires during the 1970s to 3 per 100,000 today. The size and open layout of modern single-family homes, new construction materials and techniques, and high-heat-release-rate furnishings are increasing the risk to firefighters. The cumulative effects of these changes are faster fire propagation, shorter escape times, decreased time for flashover and structural collapse, and a reduction in response time for effective fireground operations. In addition to training for research-based safer tactical considerations for residential fires, the fire dynamics module also provides understanding of fire science and behavior.”

“Despite the myriad physical dangers inherent in conducting live firefighting response activities, it is the physiological consequences of firefighting that pose the greatest threat to firefighters. In addition to the fatalities, approximately 800 to 1,000 firefighters suffer nonfatal heart attacks while on duty each year. Firefighters are 14 times more likely to suffer a sudden cardiac event following an alarm and 10 to 100 times more likely to have a sudden cardiac event after fire suppression activities compared to nonemergency station duties. The cardiovascular health module provides understanding of strategies that are effective in reducing cardiovascular strain and enhancing overall health.”

“Proven Truck Tactics That Might Surprise You”: Captain Jason Joannides, Columbia (SC) Fire Department, says, “I attended FDIC about three years ago. I’ve been very fortunate in my career to attend many different and great conferences along the East Coast; however, FDIC was the ‘Super Bowl’ of conferences. This will be my first year teaching at FDIC, and I’m beyond excited to be able to contribute to our great fire service!”

“I have had a great opportunity in my organization to build our Acquired Structure Program over the past three years. Through this program, I have hosted scenarios and skill stations on more than 100 acquired buildings including single-family dwellings, multi-family apartment buildings, commercial buildings, and a mid-rise. These scenarios and skill stations have truly tested ‘what works and doesn’t work’ in the fire service. Today, it is so easy to jump onto YouTube or Google and look up different skills and tactics on truck company operations; however, testing them in realistic environments and putting them to the test on the fireground prove their worth. We will cover building an acquired structure program and discuss force entry options, egress issues, portable ladders, roof ventilation, and many different FAST/RIT scenarios and skills.”

“Many organizations have an opportunity to use vacant structures or structures about to be demolished. This workshop can provide them with some insight as well as proven tactics and skills that work. Remember, acquired structures are not only for company level training but also for probationary firefighters in recruit school as well as command and control. These structures provide realistic problems and conditions that some training academies cannot. Using acquired structures is the most realistic preparation for the street.”

Classrooms

The FDIC Advisory Board received more than 900 submissions for presentations. Here are just some of the more than 200 classes selected for 2017.

“Dealing with Electrical Injuries,” Captain (Ret.) Calvin Allison, Lewisville (TX) Fire Department: “I think any level of firefighter from volunteer to chief can learn from this class. Since I have lived through [electrical shock], I hope to give a realistic picture of what first responders face every time they go on a call. I also want to encourage firefighters to prepare for an unforeseen injury that may be career ending. I feel this topic is important for every first responder because electricity is everywhere. No matter what type of scene you’re working, electricity is there. Typically, electricity and how it affects scenes are not topics that departments train on enough. I hope to give an informative and educational class that can help first responders understand electrical injuries and learn how to cope with life-changing injuries. This is a class you don’t want to miss. Not only can this class make you look at dangers in the fire service with a new perspective, but I hope to really get through to everyone on a personal level. I’m not a chief; I’m not a Navy seal. I’m a guy who rides backward and showed up to a fire and had my life changed in 30 seconds.”

“Fire Service Suicide Prevention Approach,” Lieutenant Dena Ali, Raleigh (NC) Fire Department: “This is my first year teaching at FDIC. However, I attended in 2015 as a Honeywell FDIC Scholarship winner. My presentation is about understanding the prevalence of suicide in the fire service. While recent events have helped to start conversations on fire service suicide, understanding the causes is still a mystery to many in the fire service. My course has four objectives: recognize that suicide is a dark secret in the fire service, recognize suicide risk factors, identify protective factors that can prevent suicide, and identify company officer responsibilities. Suicide isn’t well understood in the fire service, and my goal is to help members understand some of the causes. My first course objective, recognizing that suicide is a dark secret in the fire service, is the key to prevention. Research from my home state, North Carolina, found that a firefighter is three times more likely to die by suicide than a line-of-duty death. Firefighters see themselves as pillars in the community and develop a sense of responsibility that can cause them to suppress their emotions or prevent them from admitting when they are struggling themselves. This masking of their personal struggles can lead to a feeling of isolation and alienation, which has been confirmed as being one of the greatest risk factors for suicide. Developing a basic course on suicide awareness will help members to understand that they don’t have to suppress their emotions and they don’t have to suffer in silence.”

“Responding to Motor Sports Incidents,” Firefighter/EMT Andre Biron, Manchester (NH) Fire Department: “I have been coming to FDIC for 12 years now, both as a student and an instructor combined. My classroom lecture is about the grass roots racing that happens across North America, in both Canada and the United States-specifically, vehicle construction and safety systems, how to defeat these systems, how to respond to race facilities, and the culture of these facilities. According to a New York Times article, Nicole Johnson was just 15 years old-too young to drive and somehow old enough to race-when she earned a spot in her first auto racing competition. On her second practice lap, she lost control of her car and slammed it into the concrete retaining wall, breaking her neck. She was not wearing a head neck restraint device required by the larger sanctioning bodies. In the vastly unregulated world of short track racing, this would have gone unnoticed and been an isolated event. Local jurisdictions respond to these tracks and are not widely educated on the construction of the cars, the restraint systems, and other information needed to assist the occupants from these vehicles. It’s not uncommon in 2016 for track responders to wear jeans and a T-shirt, with limited to no personal protective equipment. We will also discuss the culture of the racing industry, where it is common to spend thousands of dollars on racing tires and not personal protective equipment for the drivers.”

“Vent-Enter-Isolate-Search (VEIS) Works … So Get in There!” Captain Kevin Lewis, Cobb County (GA) Fire & Emergency Services: “The crux of the class revolves around the facts that civilian life safety is still the primary mission of the fire service and that the tactic of VEIS is proven and works. Thus, we have an obligation to train and an obligation to try when the time comes. The amount of scientific data that has been recorded based on testing and research indicates we will see more situations where VEIS will be the tactic of choice. At 3:00 a.m., when Mom points to the window and says, ‘My baby is right there,’ we need to execute this tactic with confidence and proficiency.”

“Recruiting That Works: Youth Programs That Meet Your Department’s Strategic Goals,” Captain/Paramedic Joshua Parish, Fire Cadet Program Director, Milwaukee (WI) Fire Department: “This will be my first time teaching at FDIC; however, I have worked with other fire departments- from small volunteer departments to the U.S. Forest Service-on recruiting. My class is a chance for the members of a fire department who are responsible for recruiting to take a more analytical look at their recruiting practices and ask themselves what will probably seem like some really basic questions that departments often skip over. Modern firefighters must be strong of mind and body, which puts departments in unique competition with the military, Division 1 colleges, and other large and small employers who want the same physically fit, intelligent employee. As a direct result of heightened competition, fire department recruiters are tasked with finding applicants who can be trained in suppression, EMS, special operations, and foreign languages and operate in a culturally competent manner. This class will teach recruiters how to identify what types of applicants they should be looking for, where to find them, how to engage them, and how to use data to retain them through an application and hiring process.”

“An interesting paradox exists in the fire service: Most fire departments will spend more time and resources selecting a new piece of apparatus than they will a new employee. The new employee, however, will likely be with the organization three times as long, will cost the organization more than three times as much to train and employ, and has the potential to expose the organization to more liability than an apparatus.”

“Since 2009, I have been researching and studying diversity in the fire service; as a result of this research, I discovered that a majority of our diversity issues lay in our entry level hiring and recruiting. This research led me to review the available literature on recruiting underrepresented groups into nontraditional careers, which I found to be lacking in specific strategies or tools to meet the goals of metropolitan departments. While most recruiting plans were well intentioned, they make far too many assumptions about their applicant pools without conducting the research necessary to ensure that applicants are interested in the job and supported through the recruiting and hiring process.”

“Every firefighter eagerly exclaims that firefighting is the best job in the world. While the career easily sells itself to other firefighters, recruiting applicants who may not view firefighting as their first love is essential to preparing our fire departments for the unknown challenges that the 21st century will pose to us. More likely than not, every recruiter at some time in their career will be recruiting their organization’s leaders in both labor and management. Learning how to make your recruiting interweave into your department’s strategic plan is essential to the future health of a department and the fire service as a whole. It’s incumbent that your recruiting reflect the need for entry level firefighters as well as mid- and upper-level managers.”

“Estimating the Stretch: The Long and Short of Engine Work,” Senior Firefighter Kiel Samsing, Newport News (VA) Fire Department and previous Honeywell scholarship winner: “This will be my second time at FDIC, my first as an instructor. I attended FDIC in 2015 on the Honeywell Scholarship, which was an amazing experience. My class is focused on bringing back the skill of estimating the stretch. It encompasses the history of hose to the evolution of hosebeds, examples of instances where firefighters stretched short or pulled too much hose, fixing short or long hose stretches, and tips for leader lines and other hose loads. Estimating the stretch is a lost art in the fire service. If we don’t keep teaching it, future generations of firefighters will have no idea how to do it.”

“Healthcare Implications of Terrorist TTPs in Complex Attacks,” MMRS Program Manager David Gerstner, Dayton (OH) Fire Department: “I have attended FDIC for years; this is my first time teaching. My class covers not only what has happened but what could happen in your community, with practical tips on how to prepare and respond. We’ll talk about implications for health care, both EMS and hospitals, of terrorist tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used in complex attack scenarios such as those perpetrated by Lashkar-e-Taiba in Mumbai (2008); by al-Shabaab at the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya (2013); and by ISIL in Paris (2015), among others. We’ll talk about the tactics used, the response, and particularly the issues that arise for emergency medical response.”

“What about when the responders, including public safety and the receivers at hospitals, become the ones who are attacked? Did you know that more than 100 anti-U.S. terrorist organizations worldwide have targeted hospitals, labs, and medical personnel? We’ll discuss cases where health care personnel and facilities, from EMS to hospitals, have been victimized and what we can do to when that occurs. When the soft target is also a crucial component of the response, our problems are magnified.”

“Prehospital Management of Bariatric Patients,” Captain Jeff Kaplan, Englewood (NJ) Fire Department: “My class is a program designed to help teach all first responders to become familiar with what a bariatric or obese patient is, what kind of medical issues you will encounter with bariatric patients, strategies on how to treat the patient, lifting and moving the patient safely, what products and devices are available to make your job easier, and ensuring that you treat these patients with dignity and respect.”

“The obesity epidemic is one of the fastest growing heath crises facing America. The population continues to grow larger at an alarming rate. If you haven’t responded to a heavy lift call or assist EMS call, you surely will soon. It is important that all responders are aware of the problem and are familiar with different ideas on how to safely lift and move these patients to prevent injuries to the patients and responders.”

“Professional Apparatus Driver and Personal Liability,” District Chief (Ret.) Louis Sclafani, Pinellas Park (FL) Fire Department: “I attended my first FDIC in 1987. I helped out with logistics for a few years and did my first presentation around 1994 on Care and Maintenance of your PPE.”

“As an instructor at St. Petersburg College, I deliver a number of minimum standards and in-service training programs. Regardless of which class I deliver, I always emphasize how important it is to be a professional when representing the fire service. It became obvious after the first few classes I delivered that very few drivers were doing air brake tests in the morning, much less even knew they were supposed to be doing them or even what they were. Contrast this with a private truck driver who operates another 70,000-pound over-the-road truck. The amount of mandatory training he is required to go through vs. what a firefighter has to go through to be certified to drive a truck is considerable.”

“Over the years we have seen way too many fire apparatus apparatus crashes and accidents. Besides the obvious dollar loss, these crashes have led to many fire service injuries and fatalities. Isn’t that a good enough reason to address the issue of increasing our professional driving skills?”

“Overcoming Common Engine Company Mistakes and Fireground Problems,” Firefighter Jason Rivera, New Haven (CT) Fire Department and previous Courage & Valor Award recipient: “I have attended FDIC about six times. This will be my first year as an instructor. My class was created following a structure fire in New Haven where we encountered many obstacles and problems on arrival. Members were able to adapt and overcome these obstacles, resulting in the successful rescue of a civilian trapped on the second floor of a residential structure. I will review mistakes that the engine company may make and how to avoid them, potential problems engine companies inevitably encounter and how to overcome them, and the importance of having a plan ‘B.’ The engine company is the ‘jack of all trades’ of the fire service, and the way we handle ‘routine’ calls is often indicative of how we handle more serious incidents. This class also covers common incidents engine companies may respond to and what the ideal characteristics of an engine company firefighter are.”

“Challenging Racism and Sexism in Fire and Emergency Services: 2017 and Beyond,” Fire and EMS Chief Jona Olsson, Latir (NM) Volunteer Fire Department: “This is an interactive session that provides a size-up, a reality check regarding current incidents in the fire service, and an examination of the resistance to cultural change. Attendees will address scenarios for practicing intervention and education skills and identify some benefits of an inclusive fire service organization. In the United States today, racism still divides us-our nation, our communities, our departments, and the fire service culture still struggle with the legacy of an all-male history. Fire and emergency service organizations are simply microcosms of the larger society and have inherited the historical and institutional racism and sexism that have existed since this nation’s founding. Sexism, racism, prejudice, and stereotypes have predictable consequences for the fire service: Many firefighters of color and women feel isolated, doubted, shunned, unsupported, or harassed; many white, male firefighters feel suspicious or threatened. There is one mission-critical result: There is a loss of trust, and no firefighter performs her or his best.”

“Meth Lab Fire-Now What?” Captain Tobias Frost, Lafayette (IN) Fire Department: “I went to my first FDIC in 2000 and was completely overwhelmed. I had no grasp of how big the conference was. In 2004, I attended my first HOT evolution and have never missed the conference since. The instructors are world class. The workshops offer a who’s who in the fire service and cover virtually all aspects of the fire service. Nowhere else can you, under one roof, have so many educational opportunities. This will be my second year presenting.”

“My class will look at illicit methamphetamine laboratories and the hazards they present to first responders. There is a lot of misinformation out there, so what are the actual hazards first responders will encounter? What are we exposed to? How do we protect ourselves? I will look at the three major types of illicit meth labs, the chemicals present, how meth is produced, and what responders need to do to protect themselves and victims at the scene. Meth labs are not going away, and first responders are stumbling into them on fire scenes, medical calls, and motor vehicle accidents. The traditional training the fire service gets is “It’s bad and will hurt you,” but we need more.”

“Dry Creek Fire: A Critical Event Leading to Positive Outcomes,” Battalion Chief Brandon Wade, Austin (TX) Fire Department: “I have attended FDIC for the past three years. My class is based on an incident in Austin in October 2015 in which we were operating at a two-alarm condominium fire. We had a catastrophic floor collapse that sent three firefighters operating a hoseline on the second floor into a first-floor apartment with heavy fire burning over their heads. Maydays were called, and rescue operations had to be conducted to supply air to one trapped firefighter and remove debris that had him pinned. All firefighters were removed and had to be treated for burns and other injuries; however, a bigger question loomed: How did this happen at a fire we had fought hundreds of times over the years with no injuries?”

“I will discuss the investigation of actions, inactions, officer and firefighter thought processes, department SOGs, the critical factors that led to the injury, and how our department has made changes. What makes this investigation unique is that we were able to gather multiple helmet camera videos that show the early fire conditions, VEIS being conducted, fire attack, the firefighters falling through the floor, and operations during the Mayday. Aerial drone footage was captured that shows the fire condition before, during, and after the collapse. You will hear the radio transmissions that were recorded from initial size-up to the firefighters declaring Mayday. The importance of this topic is the drive to not only improve our department since this event to hopefully prevent a similar occurrence in the future but also how the fire service can learn from how we moved forward with improvements and recommendations to make positive changes in our organizational culture.”

“Line-of-Duty Deaths and Safety Standards in the German Fire Service: Are We Better Trained?” Battalion Chief Susanne Klatt, Essen, Germany, Fire Department: “It’s my first time at FDIC, and I’m really looking forward to presenting at the conference. I already heard a lot about the event but never managed to attend so far. When I joined the fire service in Germany about 25 years ago, I was always told that in the United States more than 100 firefighters die in the line of duty each year and that in Germany we never had these high numbers of firefighter fatalities. I never really questioned this information. Since I attended my first female firefighters conference nearly 20 years ago, attended the National Fire Academy for several weeks in 2007, and joined the Executive Fire Officer Program in 2009, I got far more insight and had really good discussions with my fellow firefighters and fire officers in the United States about this topic.”

“An Update on the Impact of Fire Attack Using Interior and Exterior Streams on Firefighter Safety and Occupant Survival Study,” Research Engineer Keith Stakes, UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute (UL FSRI): “I have been attending FDIC for three years now; this will be my first year as an instructor. The UL FSRI team is currently leading a three-year study on the impact of fire attack from both interior and exterior streams on firefighter safety and occupant survival. Previous research into various types of fireground ventilation, flow paths, and exterior fire streams has provided the fire service with a more in-depth understanding of fire dynamics in addition to causing concern about certain fire attack methods stemming from differing traditions and myths. This project is aimed at putting data to tactics that have been used for decades and providing answers to lingering fire service questions.”

“Beginning in October 2015, we began conducting experiments on how hose streams move air throughout structures, followed by focusing on how water is distributed during various types of fire attack. These preliminary experiments were designed to help better understand how hose streams play a role in fire suppression operations prior to introducing them in the modern fire environment. The FSRI team spent the first few months of 2016 in Northbrook, Illinois, where we conducted more than 30 full-scale residential fire experiments looking at both interior and transitional fire attack. Each experiment looked at a different tactic using a different nozzle and attack method with differing ventilation configurations in the structure.”

“This class is geared toward bringing the fire service up to speed on the research findings and providing tactical considerations for your department to mold and adapt for your specific needs. The project discussed hopes to answer some of the lingering questions and close the gap between existing myths and research conducted to date.”

“Surviving a Fire Service Career: Understanding and Preventing Occupational Cancer,” Safety Division Executive Officer/Captain Jennifer Chadwick, San Antonio (TX) Fire Department: “I attended my first FDIC in 2016, and it was absolutely incredible! I was extremely impressed with the tremendous amount of effort that went into the coordination of such an amazing event. Nowhere else do you have access to such a vast amount of information and the ability to network with so many incredible people from within the fire service. I am honored to have been selected as an instructor, and I look forward to the opportunity to talk about a topic that is very near and dear to my heart.”

“In the fire service, we are used to managing the risks encountered at fires and other incidents. We identify potential hazards, develop a plan to deal with those dangers, implement that plan, and then follow up to make sure our efforts are effective. If our plan isn’t working or a new hazard exists, we change what we are doing to ensure our brothers and sisters are kept as safe as possible. This same process must be used to develop a Cancer Prevention and Education Program that is aimed at identifying the exposure risks and mitigating them.”

“This class will give those who attend a template for establishing a Cancer Prevention and Education Program of their own. One of the key components of a successful program is the education piece. For change to occur, firefighters must understand the scope of the problem, how it affects them, and what they can do to protect themselves. The presentation will guide attendees through the education portion while at the same time give them ideas for developing a program of their own or enhancing an existing program. Sharing what your own department is doing or what other departments have done is highly encouraged. We can all learn from one another.”

“Cancer is one of the most dangerous threats to the health and safety of our firefighters. It has become an epidemic within the fire service. It is making our brothers and sisters sick, and it is killing them. In the past, when we thought about the potential dangers and risks involved with this profession, we had a tendency to focus on threats that were immediately dangerous to life or health-everything from structural collapse to flashover to vehicle accidents. As more and more information has become available, we now realize that there are serious long-term hazards associated with the job. To combat this devastating disease, every department must have a Cancer Prevention and Education Program in place. We must ensure that our firefighters have the knowledge and resources they need to protect themselves.”

“Buddy to Boss: Learning to Lead with Integrity and Respect,” Fire/EMS Captain II Tiffanye Wesley, Arlington County (VA) Fire Department: “I have attended FDIC twice before. This will be my first time teaching. My class will include real-life scenarios to help bring the topic to life. Attendees will learn how to earn and keep the respect of their crew, how to be consistently consistent, how to be flexible but firm, as well as how to positively influence behavior. Attendees will also learn to recognize their leadership style.”

“My class is needed in the fire service because it is a subject that is often overlooked. Often we get promoted and learn the technical aspect of the job only. No one prepares us to start leading our buddies. No one even shares the challenges they experienced while making the transition. It’s past time to start talking about it and find practical solutions to assist with transitioning from buddy to boss.”

“Who Needs Fire Studies When We Have LODDs?” Captain Tony Carroll, District of Columbia Fire Department; Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department: “I attended my first FDIC in 1999. I’m excited about what the conference has become and the variety of training offered. My class addresses some of the recent research. These studies are designed to help us to better understand the enemy we face. Some in the service have welcomed these studies; others are slow to accept them. Well, if you don’t want to ‘believe’ the science, then how about some of our LODDs? The science is showing us that some of these tragedies are not ‘perfect storms’ but are predicted fire behavior. I believe the best way to honor a fellow firefighter’s sacrifice is to learn from it. In addition, this class will show the attendees that a lot of these studies have one thing in common.”

“First Due: Trench Rescue Operations” (In Spanish), Firefighter Nelson Ojeda, Tulsa (OK) Fire Department: “Trench rescue operations are a very complex topic that doesn’t get covered at most conferences. What makes it more unique is the opportunity that attendees will have to explore the subject in their own language. As complex as it is, one of my goals is to present international students with the regulations that are used here in the United States so they can analyze their applicability to their jurisdictions. Most of the rescue operations are similar worldwide, and they involve a high degree of hazard because they are not very common in anyone’s jurisdiction. We will cover regulations, the importance of understanding soil mechanics, and rescue operations so attendees can educate their own personnel. Fire departments across the world are being challenged by adding more and better quality services, sometimes with fewer resources. Technical rescue is becoming one of those additions to deliver that outstanding customer service that we are proud to provide. Personnel in charge of training or planning may not know when to start and what to do or know how to look for ways to establish or improve their technical rescue response team. They may also have questions about the applicability of local regulations such as OSHA as part of their response plan. I remember being faced with those questions while being a member of the fire service in Chile. Now, with 18 years of experience combined, including being a member of the American fire service, I have been able to replicate those experiences and research and provide solutions.”

“Routine Rescue Becomes Hazmat,” Captain Phil Ambrose, Glendale (CA) Fire Department/HazMatNation.com: “HazMat is not considered sexy compared to truck work and fighting fire, but every shift, first-due companies have the potential to face a rescue in a hazmat environment. The gray area addresses that situation where the nonhazmat first responder ends up first in to a chemical scene with the need for rescue. We will look at case studies to better understand your options outside of staging and waiting for the hazmat team. There is no telltale ‘smoke showing’ when the ‘check the welfare’ call turns out to be an invisible poisonous gas environment with viable rescue. It is easy to say ‘expect the unexpected,’ but not everyone walks in to every EMS run donning an SCBA. This class is aimed at keeping first responders safer while advocating measures to effect a victim rescue and retreival as we would on any fire scene.”

“Inside the Fenceline: Response to Industrial Emergencies,” Chief (Fmr.) Keith Silverman, Somerset (NJ) Fire & Rescue: “I have been attending FDIC regularly since the mid 1990s. My class will help prepare you for responding to incidents at chemical manufacturing facilities. As firefighters, we are comfortable responding to structure fires, motor vehicle accidents, and other bread-and-butter emergencies. On the other hand, it can sometimes be daunting to respond to incidents involving the unknown, especially when the unknown involves hazardous materials inside a chemical manufacturing facility. The idea behind this class is to help take the mystery and therefore the anxiety out of responding ‘inside the fenceline.’ We will cover basic size-up techniques, tips and tricks, preplanning tactics, and ideas for building lasting partnerships.”

“We have all seen the media coverage of the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) reports on past incidents that have occurred at chemical manufacturing facilities. In July, the CSB announced that emergency planning and response is its newest ‘Most Wanted Safety Improvement,’ concluding that inadequate or poor emergency planning or response is a recurring finding in the CSB’s investigations. Good emergency response planning takes place before an incident happens. This class is designed to help responders build partnerships with industry before an incident happens and, more importantly, work together to prevent incidents from occurring.”

“From Fire Behavior to Fire Training: Attitudes and Deviations from an European Experience,” Battalion Chief Stephane Morizot, Charente County Fire & Rescue Service, Jarnac, France: “I have attended FDIC twice, and both times it was a fabulous experience. My presentation covers my European experience in fire training including the fact that science has brought a lot by making us better understand fire behavior. This greatly influenced the way the fire service reads the fire, understands fire behavior, and adapts firefighting technics and tactics. Social networks such as Facebook also spread knowledge and make exchanges easier, so we now see many new actors on the fire training ground. This has a good impact, as it makes access to knowledge easier but also opens the door to many bad and dangerous attitudes, which can make learners believe that firefighting is easy and puts them in dangerous situations. The way firefighters are trained impacts strongly on fire efficiency and safety on the fireground. Some new training tools linked with strong visual effects can make learners get a wrong and unsafe message that can lead to dangerous attitudes, and it is important to identify them. I think it is very important to take into account the fact that the way we teach is as important as the message itself.”

As the name implies, FDIC International will feature more than 20 international instructors from such countries as Canada, Germany, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Chile, Australia, Spain, France, and Switzerland. In addition, four classes will be taught entirely in Spanish.

Special Events

Among the many special events-held both day and night-at FDIC are the following.

Eriks Gabliks, president, North American Fire Training Directors (NAFTD): “The NAFTD holds its annual Spring Meeting as part of FDIC. The reasons are as follows: FDIC is the largest event in the world for fire service trainers. FDIC actively works with partner organizations such as ours to get not only the best instructors but also cutting edge topics as part of the conference. FDIC attendees receive copies of presenter lesson plans and presentations so they can deliver the classes back at their agency. FDIC has an advisory panel made up of fire service professionals who review each class and instructor to ensure attendees will be getting a great presentation from a knowledgeable presenter. Some may wonder why our organization would meet at FDIC; the answer is very simple: FDIC draws tens of thousands of attendees and exhibitors. While the conference is one of the largest in the world, it still treats everyone like family. It’s a well-run event; held at a great location; with great presentations, an amazing exhibit area, with everything under one (very large) roof that spans a number of city blocks.”

“Our members enjoy the FDIC experience. This includes hundreds of great classes; various networking events; and an amazing exhibit area that includes everything from apparatus manufacturers to safety equipment designers and suppliers and training program publishers-all under one roof. No one else does this as well as FDIC. If you have never attended FDIC, you should definitely get it on your calendar.”

Chief Ronald E. Kanterman, Wilton (CT) Fire Department; administrator, National Fire Academy Alumni Association (NFAAA): “The NFAAA Board of Directors believed from the very first meeting of the organization in 1998 at FDIC that meeting at FDIC was prudent for a few reasons. PennWell was the founder and primary sponsor of the organization, and we would be able to get a good cross section of members. We’ve met at every FDIC since.”

“FDIC 2017 will be my 28th FDIC, and I’m looking forward to it with the same excitement and passion as my first. I’ve met, conversed with, and taught some of the greatest people in the American fire service at FDIC. I call our week in Indianapolis a few things. During that week, it’s ‘the center of the universe’ for seven days. It has also become a ‘family reunion’ for a lot of us who have attended for many years and only get to see each other once a year at FDIC. If you’ve never been there, it’s your time. If you have been there before, come back home.”

Steve Pegram, president, International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI): “FDIC, simply put, is where the instructors are. FDIC has been the home for our annual ISFSI membership meeting and Board of Directors orientation, and all our officers’ terms start and end at FDIC annually. We chose FDIC because it is the biggest fire service event of the year. All the people we need to see, meet with, and network with are at FDIC. There is simply no other fire service event where so many of our current and future members and partner agencies are all in the same place at the same time. As an organization dedicated to the professional development of instructors, it only makes sense for us to be at FDIC.”

“At FDIC, not only can our membership benefit from the many ISFSI events like our Tuesday night membership social, Instructor of the Year award on the main stage Thursday, and our annual membership meeting on Friday afternoon, but they also can learn from and network with the best of every discipline in the fire service. Instructors from all over the country and internationally are all in one place.”

“One of the comments we get from new members who attend FDIC for the first time is how approachable the instructors are. At events like our instructors’ social on Tuesday night, they can meet and talk to well-known authors and instructors from the ISFSI, Fire Engineering, and FDIC. The ISFSI could never get that many members and legacy instructors in the same place at the same time.”

Another special event, the FAMA/FDIC Product Showcase, will feature “Critical Lessons from the IFSI Cardiovascular & Chemical Exposure Risk Studies,” presented by Gavin Horn, on Thursday, April 27, at 10:30 a.m. Horn says, “Cancer is a primary chronic health concern associated with firefighting. Sudden cardiac events are the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths in the fire service and a primary acute health concern. In a recent project between IFSI Research, UL FSRI, and NIOSH, we have developed a deeper understanding of the cardiovascular and chemical exposure risks associated with firefighting activities. This presentation will review the critical results from those efforts with a focus on the impact of personal protective equipment (PPE) and equipment used by firefighters operating in different roles on the fireground, including interior firefighting, as well as how offgassing PPE and equipment can cross contaminate the interior of a fire apparatus cab. It will discuss policy implication from this study as well as a means to reduce exposures to these risks.”

Takeaways from FDIC

Keynoter Angela Hughes: “When I leave FDIC, my bucket is full, and I’m excited to share what I have learned with my teammates. I leave with immense pride in the profession of firefighting and EMS. It is truly an uplifting experience to share a week at FDIC with such amazing colleagues.”

Keynoter Mike McEvoy: “My takeaway is always tons of new knowledge; dozens of new friends and contacts; and the feeling that I have seen the latest and greatest of fire and EMS people, equipment, tools, and instructors.”

Featured Speaker Denise Smith: “My takeaway is that it is an honor to get to work with the fire service. The men and women who attend FDIC are amazing, and the programming is great. I am always inspired and motivated when I leave.”

Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Rick Lasky: “It’s a chance to learn new things and how to be better at what I do as a firefighter and an officer. I am learning from the best of the best. FDIC is a chance to hone my craft, a chance to become a better servant and come away energized. They should make an energy drink and call it ‘FDIC.’ ”

HOT Instructor Nate Paulsberg: “The networking with like-minded professional rescuers is invaluable, and I am hoping to pick up some information on the latest and greatest tools and techniques in the business.”

HOT Instructor Eric Dreiman: “For me, FDIC is like a working vacation. I look forward to it every year. I always meet new people, learn new information that will make me a better firefighter and fire officer, and get exposed to the latest and best in fire service equipment and technology. After being around 30,000-plus other firefighters for a week, I feel recharged and reminded about why I like being a firefighter so much. I always have fun and walk away every year feeling better about having attended.”

HOT Instructor Katie Johnson: “I expect to be blown away! The gathered experience and knowledge of instructors and participants at FDIC are incredible. I hope to network and gain new perspectives on my department’s current training concerns.”

HOT Instructor Aaron Heller: “Every year at FDIC, I take away an increased knowledge of the various topics I train on and the classes I attend. Additionally, I try to learn as much as I can about the new equipment technology displayed on the show floor. Finally, I never fail to come home recharged and with a renewed sense of brotherhood and love of the job.”

HOT Instructor Gary Lane: “I expect to take away another week of great conversations about the job from firefighters across the country.”

Workshop Instructor Chris Hubbard: “I plan to learn recent hot topics from some of the nation’s best instructions in addition to seeing some of the latest technology available to firefighters.”

Workshop Instructor Prabodh Panindre: “I am certain that this will be a unique opportunity for me and my research group to interact with the most enthusiastic audience from the fire service. We believe that we will learn tremendously from their experiences. It will help us to understand their needs and assist us in determining our future direction for research.”

Workshop Instructor Jason Joannides: “My expected takeaways will be the gaining of knowledge and networking. When I first attended FDIC, I learned that I am still a student of the craft. I’m very excited to attend some great classes as well as be given the opportunity to host a workshop. Through FDIC, I met so many great and passionate firefighters like myself. FDIC is an amazing venue where I will be able to walk down the hallways of the convention center and talk to other firefighters looking for the same information.”

Classroom Instructor Dena Ali: “The week I spent at FDIC in 2015 (as a Honeywell Scholarship winner) was career changing and life altering. It was wonderful to meet the people who I’ve learned from for years, either through reading their books, reading their articles in Fire Engineering, or seeing them on YouTube. FDIC lit a fire in me to learn more and do more to make the fire service a better place. I met so many people and developed lifelong friendships in that short week. My hopes are to simply expand from those experiences.”

Classroom Instructor Keith Stakes: “My expected takeaway is to meet a wide array of firefighters, and through attending various classroom sessions I plan to learn how different instructors are incorporating the fire service research that has been conducted to date.”

Classroom Instructor Jennifer Chadwick: “My plan is to attend as many classes as possible so that I may broaden my knowledge base and bring back information that I can share with members of my department. I hope to speak with other firefighters and learn what they are doing in terms of cancer prevention within their own organizations.”

Classroom Instructor Tiffanye Wesley: “I expect to take away new skills and practical advice I can implement into my own leadership style. I also expect to connect and network with other industry leaders. Last but not least, I expect to be replenished, inspired, and motivated to go back to my organization and continue to strive for improvements or in some cases make changes.”

Classroom Instructor Tony Carroll: “It is a great time to get reenergized in the fire service and a good place to meet new fire service people.”

Classroom Instructor Nelson Ojeda: “The main takeaway that I expect is to motivate myself and others on how to improve the fire service. As instructors and students, we have to understand the need to stay on top of technology, research, and training. But traditions must not be forgotten. We have to learn to make it better, and we owe it to the ones who came before us.”

Classroom Instructor Kevin Lewis: “My takeaway from a week at FDIC has been a sort of rejuvenation for me because of the sheer numbers of true professionals and students of our craft who come to learn, instruct, and participate.”

Classroom Instructor Jeff Kaplan: “When I left FDIC last time, I left feeling motivated and full of new ideas. I’m hoping to leave with the same feeling after being exposed to the latest trends and innovations in the fire service.”

Classroom Instructor Louis Sclafani: “It doesn’t matter if this is your first time at FDIC or your 21st. You will always find something new or something to recharge your batteries for the love of the job. Your choices are immense, from HOT evolutions to classroom presentations to main program presentations to the multitude of exhibitors on the exhibit floor. There is something for everyone. For me, it’s always a great place to reconnect with old friends and like-minded individuals who care about what we do and work hard every day to make sure that firefighters have the opportunity to see, meet, and be the best they can be. New techniques, new tools, and new ideas-all to make our job better, safer, and more efficient.”

Classroom Instructor Jason Rivera: “My expected takeaway from a week at FDIC is to listen to as many ideas and presentations as possible so I can bring that knowledge back home with me and share it with others. This sharing of knowledge benefits everyone in the fire service and should be the goal of anyone in attendance. There aren’t many other opportunities out there that provide this level of learning that FDIC provides.”

Classroom Instructor Brandon Wade: “I am looking at a great week of education and training in not only new research, techniques, and ideas but also a revitalization of why we are doing the job that we do. We get to do this while surrounded by phenomenal people who not only care about the citizens they serve but generally care about their brother and sister firefighters, and that is why we see instructors so passionate about sharing their experiences, knowledge, and information.”

Classroom Instructor Phil Ambrose: “The entire town is alive with learning. Outside of the classroom, it is impossible not to bump into instructors and fire service mentors. I plan to learn and bring that positive energy back to my department.”

Classroom Instructor Keith Silverman: “I expect to leave with a notepad full of ideas, best practices, and new and improved ways of doing things. FDIC never disappoints.”

Classroom Instructor Tobias Frost: “I am looking forward to attending workshops and networking. There is so much information out there; rarely do we get it all in one place. It is just a phenomenal learning opportunity. The networking sounds like a cliché, but that is the most valuable thing. Developing those people to call when you need help or have a question is valuable, and the instructors and other attendees are all great resources.”

Advice to First-Time Attendees

Keynoter Angela Hughes: “If you are on the fence, invest in yourself and GO! The training, camaraderie, and overall experience cannot be put into words. Have a plan, and know what classes you want to attend before your arrival. Take advantage of the app, and pick your favorites. The instructors and topics are excellent, and you might have a hard time narrowing your choices. Be sure to watch the videos corresponding to your class selections to ensure your expectations are met. Plan to attend ALL evening networking events, the Firefighter Combat Challenge, and the Stair Climb. When you return home, summarize what you have learned, and share the experiences with your department. Lastly, while you are at FDIC, remember: You are representing your fire department; have fun, but be smart!”

Keynoter Mike McEvoy: “I suggest you read the program carefully; attend the Opening Ceremony/General Session; pick your classes the night before so you are not making off-the-cuff choices; and spend some time at the evening events including the 5k Courage and Valor Run, the Indianapolis Fire Department Open House on Friday night, and the many other after-hours events where you can socialize and make new connections with brothers and sisters from around the world.”

Featured Speaker Denise Smith: “Come to FDIC ready to learn. It is good if you have experiences or knowledge to share, but it is essential that you come with an openness to learning new things and an appreciation for the expertise of others.”

Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Rick Lasky: “Take every class you can, and take from those classes everything you can! Ask questions, listen, and see everything you can on the exhibit floor. There is learning going on all around you, so don’t miss a chance to grab something that will make you a better firefighter or officer. Enjoy every minute of it, because there is nothing else like it. And when the week is over and you get back home, share with those around you what you gained in Indy and encourage more of your fellow firefighters and officers to attend and experience the thrill of FDIC.”

HOT Instructor Nate Paulsberg: “Come to FDIC with an open mind, and realize that there are SEVERAL ways to accomplish a task in a safe and an efficient manner.”

HOT Instructor Eric Dreiman: “Plan your week out. There is always so much to see and do when attending FDIC. It can be a little bit overwhelming. Look at the class schedule in advance and get an idea of what classes you want to attend. The HOT classes are always top notch and the classroom sessions are great. Take part in some of the social activities associated with FDIC like the Stair Climb, the Courage and Valor Fun Run, and the many parties held each year. Be sure to walk through the exhibits to see everything for the fire service. You will have no trouble filling your days with plenty of activities and new experiences. Bring good shoes for walking; you will be covering a lot of ground while you are at FDIC.”

HOT Instructor Aaron Heller: “Try to soak in as much as possible. Plan out the HOT classes that you can’t get elsewhere and that pertain to your operations. Attend classroom sessions that you feel you can apply when you get back. Don’t be intimidated by the FDIC instructors. They are human, caring, and more than willing to share as much knowledge and experience as you’re willing to absorb.”

HOT Instructor Gary Lane: “Get out and talk to as many firefighters as you can. Share in the passion for the job and learn from everyone you meet.”

Workshop Instructor Chris Hubbard: “This the chance of a lifetime. Don’t skip a thing! Take the time to visit the sponsored events and attend as many classes as you can.”

Workshop Instructor Prabodh Panindre: “FDIC is the best venue for learning from well-known researchers and fire leadership, making connections with experts and your peers, educating the largest firefighting audience, and making an impact on the fire service. Don’t miss it!”

Workshop Instructor Jason Joannides: “Be first in line for the Opening Ceremony. A highly respectable division chief made us get up early and be first in line, and it was worth it. Network with as many firefighters as possible. You can make lifelong friends and share so much information. It’s an amazing experience that you will never forget!”

Classroom Instructor Dena Ali: “Take it all in! Plan to buy a few books and get them signed from your favorite authors. Study the list of presentations, and pick two to attend for each class session. This way, you have a backup in case your first choice is full.”

Classroom Instructor Andre Biron: “Do not jump at the first thing that grabs your attention. Take your time, walk around, and take it all in. Process this information over a cold beer with some friends and a bar napkin, because firefighters can solve the world’s problems on a bar napkin! Sleep on this information, and repeat on day two and day three. Then make a well-educated decision and go with your gut feeling. After that, it’s up to you, the student, to bring it back to your local jurisdiction and educate your members.”

Classroom Instructor Keith Stakes: “Approach FDIC week with your eyes and ears open. This is an incredible opportunity to meet some of the best and brightest in the fire service all in one location with one common interest.”

Classroom Instructor Jennifer Chadwick: “Enjoy everything that FDIC has to offer, and definitely plan ahead. There is so much to do and there is something for everyone. Because of the large number of great classes that are offered, identify the ones that you are interested in attending in advance. Go to as many of the events as you can that are held throughout the week. Many of them raise money for different fire service charities, and it’s a good way to show support for your fellow firefighters. Without a doubt, FDIC is an event that you absolutely need to plan on going to year after year!”

Classroom Instructor Tiffanye Wesley: “I encourage you to attend with an open mind, understanding there are many ways to solve a problem. Think of it as gaining new tools to go into your toolbox. Step outside of your comfort zone, and research a class subject that you normally skip over. Attend the class that you think you don’t need.”

Classroom Instructor Tony Carroll: “Go check out a class that might challenge your thinking or get you out of your comfort zone. So many go to FDIC and see presenters that they have already seen or whose articles they have read. Try something new.”

Classroom Instructor Nelson Ojeda: “Learn as much as you can from anyone you meet-in the classroom, on the exhibit floor, everywhere. This is the biggest worldwide event that covers our trade.”

Classroom Instructor Kiel Samsing: “Get out of your comfort zone. Try to branch out and meet new people. Attend all the classes you can, but you really need to be extremely social. Don’t just hang out with your friends all week. I met amazing people who have become good friends, who have mentored me, and who are sounding boards for ideas. Do not get wrapped up in big names or big cities. They are firefighters just like you and would love to talk shop.”

Classroom Instructor David Gerstner: “FDIC is always an incredible opportunity to see the latest products, techniques, procedures, and information. Budget plenty of time for the exhibits (and wear comfortable shoes-it’s a lot of walking). Almost nowhere else will you have the opportunities that you do at FDIC.”

Classroom Instructor Jeff Kaplan: “Honestly, wear comfortable shoes! There is so much ground to cover; you can’t possibly do it in one day. Plan out your classes ahead of time and use the mobile app. Don’t get stuck at a class you don’t want to attend just because your friends are going. Attend the classes that are important or interesting to you. Then, discuss what everyone learned at dinner later that night and share the ideas.”

Classroom Instructor Louis Sclafani: “Beware of information overload. There is so much here! You could spend the entire conference walking the exhibit hall talking to vendors about every tool you have, want, need, or desire. You can end up with so many bags of flyers that you may have to pay for extra luggage for the trip home. You can go to every class every day and take so many notes on a multitude of topics from a variety of instructors. As a result, you really need to decide what it is you want to research or learn more about ahead of time. If your department will never have the money to spend on that high-end wiz-bang gadget, don’t spend too much time drooling over it. Find the one with a little less wiz-bang that you can afford. As for classes, your time is limited, and there are so many programs. While it may be interesting to learn about the latest in high-rise firefighting, if all you have in your area are a couple of mid-rises, perhaps you are better served finding that class that is discussing something that is more related to your community. Finally, don’t be shy. We are all cut from the same cloth. FDIC is not like a gated community. We call it the brotherhood, and everyone has the same interests and love of the fire service. If you see someone you want to meet or want a card from or someone you would like to talk fire stuff with later, ask. We call it the brotherhood, remember?”

Classroom Instructor Jason Rivera: “Try not to become overwhelmed by the enormous number of classes and learning opportunities at FDIC. Go through the course listings early, and pick those that appeal to you most. Then pick a few more courses outside of your comfort zone-perhaps an unfamiliar topic or a topic presented by an instructor from another part of the country. You will be amazed at what you can learn from someone who looks at things from a different perspective. Take as many classes as possible throughout the week. Remember to take notes at each one so when you return home you can review and digest all the information.”

Classroom Instructor Tobias Frost: “Meet people and talk to them. Trade business cards. There is nowhere else like FDIC, where so many of our industry leaders will be available and willing to talk to you. You just have to go up to them and ask. Also, make a plan before you start. There are so many classes to choose from, you need to have an idea of where you are going or you will miss something. The same is true for the exhibit hall. It is enormous, and everything is out there. You cannot see everything; there just is not time. Make a plan ahead, or you will miss those things you really want to see.”

Classroom Instructor Brandon Wade: “When selecting classes, I challenge you to take a few on topics or research that you know little about or positions that you may disagree with. You have to open you mind to listening to information and suggestions from the ‘the other side of the table’ to truly understand the full picture and gain some context to whatever position you have. I have seen too many people take courses on topics that just seemed cool to them, and while they gained some knowledge, they ended up wishing they would have chosen a topic that would have challenged their thought process or opinions.”

Classroom Instructor Phil Ambrose: “Don’t miss Comedy Night by the great folks at the Firefighter Cancer Support Network.”

Classroom Instructor Keith Silverman: “I always leave FDIC with a stack of business cards-some for vendors, some for education, some from old friends, and some from new people I met during the week. Get involved and meet people. Attend the classes, the show, and the social events. Most importantly, have fun, learn, and take it back home and share it.”

NAFTD President Eriks Gabliks: “First, take the time to read the FDIC schedule before the conference begins. Take a highlighter and mark the presentations you want to attend. If you are in a group of folks from your fire department, you might want to split up and attend a number of presentations to ensure you are all getting what you need to bring back to your agency. Second, the exhibit area is even larger than the photos show. Make sure you pack your business cards, bring a camera, and wear comfortable shoes. The first time through, don’t visit with anyone-just walk down the aisles to see what and who is there. Jot down the booth numbers/locations of exhibitors you need and want to see. Once you have walked through the entire exhibit area, grab a quick bite to eat and then go back and visit with the vendors you need and want to get information from. This way, you will have a chance to see the entire show floor and also go back and make contact with the folks you want more information from. You will find the representatives at the booths very knowledgeable and the best in the business. Third, enjoy the local flavor after conference hours. FDIC is located in downtown Indianapolis, and there are great restaurants within walking distance of the convention center. The choice is yours-small neighborhood pubs and eateries, nationally known names, and some amazing late-night party locations.”

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