By David Martyn Conley
There is never a day in the fire service where we can foresee the specific emergencies we will be called upon to handle. In the unpredictable world of firefighting, where every second counts and lives are at stake, being proactive is not just a valuable trait, but an essential one. The ability to anticipate, plan, and take decisive action before a crisis arises can make all the difference in saving lives, protecting property, and achieving leadership goals within the fire service.
- The Art of the Mutual Victory
- Endvision: Effective Goal Setting for Success in the Fire Service
- Growing Leaders Using E.M.P.O.W.E.R.ment
Anticipating every eventuality, however, is an impossible proposition. It is better to develop a lifestyle that makes you the best version of yourself both personally and professionally.
The emergency scene is the worst possible place to realize that you are inadequately trained and unprepared. Proactively striving to be the best you can be in every aspect of your life can ensure you bring your best for the team and the community.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of firefighters being proactive, both individually and as part of a fire team or department. We will also discuss the potential pitfalls of not being proactive and provide practical tips to cultivate a proactive mindset as a way of life.
Proactive Training and Preplanning
Visionary firefighters use their experience to identify potential hazards, thereby enabling them to devise effective strategies for prevention and mitigation. Conducting regular inspections and risk assessments and training allows leaders to foster a culture of safety and prepare their teams for any eventuality. Although this approach seems obvious, there is a temptation to yield to complacency and apathy with regard to training. An old saying goes: “How you practice is how you perform.” Every missed opportunity to be proactive about training, particularly on the basics, creates more room for mistakes when lives are on the line.
A proactive approach to training and maintenance not only minimizes risks but also enhances the reputation and credibility of the leader within the fire service community. When others see how well you and your team perform, it inspires similar behavior in other teams throughout the department and the fire service. In this way, your proactive habits around training and maintenance can become a contagious, a counter to mental and vocational atrophy. An additional benefit to modeling this behavior as a team is that incoming team members will be encouraged to adapt to this high-performance culture. New team members adapt to whatever culture you and your team foster on a daily basis. Ask yourself: Does the professional culture of our team or department measure up to the awesome responsibility of protecting life and property?
The ability to think critically is one of a firefighter’s best tools.
Not only does critical thinking allow firefighters to assess situations quickly and accurately, but it also helps them make sound decisions in high-pressure and unpredictable environments. However, this skill is not only important during emergency situations but also during downtime, as it can help the team be better prepared for future incidents.
During downtime, firefighters can engage in various activities to foster critical thinking within the team. One effective method is conducting scenario-based training exercises. These exercises simulate emergency situations and require firefighters to evaluate the situation, analyze available resources, and devise strategies to effectively handle the scenario. This helps firefighters practice making quick, informed decisions and learn from any mistakes or successes that arise. Another way to encourage critical thinking is by conducting debriefings after emergency incidents. These discussions allow the team to reflect on what went well and what could have been done differently. By encouraging open and honest communication, firefighters can learn from each other’s experiences, share insights, and collectively improve their critical thinking skills.
It is important to note that while critical thinking is crucial, it must also be balanced with following orders and protocols at the emergency scene. In the chaos of emergency situations, there is little room for individual decision-making that deviates from established procedures. Protocols and orders are in place for a reason–to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the operation. However, this does not mean that critical thinking is disregarded. Firefighters must be able to quickly analyze the situation, assess the available resources, and determine the best course of action within the framework of their training and protocols. This requires striking a delicate balance between adjusting in the moment and following generic procedures. To achieve this balance, comprehensive training is necessary. Firefighters must be well-versed in protocols and procedures, allowing them to make informed decisions within those boundaries. Regular training sessions and scenario-based exercises can help reinforce this knowledge and develop critical thinking skills that align with the established protocols.
Continuous Learning
By being proactive, fire service leaders can stay ahead of emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in firefighting. This allows them to adapt their strategies and tactics to evolving circumstances, improving operational efficiency and effectiveness. Proactive leaders also foster a culture of innovation, encouraging their teams to think creatively and implement new ideas that can transform the fire service landscape.
To stay well versed on the latest trends and technologies in the fire service industry, fire service leaders can:
1. Attend conferences and workshops: Fire service conferences and workshops provide a platform for leaders to network with industry experts and peers. These events often feature presentations on emerging trends, technologies, and best practices. Attending such conferences allows leaders to gain valuable insights, learn from the experiences of others, and stay informed about the latest advancements in firefighting. It is crucial that training departments and other command staff prioritize sponsoring their personnel to attend such events. In addition to those firefighters gleaning knowledge firsthand, they bring the lessons back to their teams and departments. This also exposes departments to excellent instructors and their travelling workshops that can potentially be brought to the department itself. This all requires prioritizing continuous learning.
2. Engage in continuous learning: For Fire service leaders to commit to ongoing education and professional development, they should seek out nearby workshops and courses. Online courses are another great option for learning new technologies, firefighting techniques, and leadership skills. By continuously learning, leaders can enhance their knowledge base and make informed decisions based on the latest information.
3. Participate in industry associations and forums: Joining industry associations and online fire service forums allows leaders to connect with fellow professionals, share ideas, and discuss emerging trends. These platforms often provide access to resources, research papers, and discussions on cutting-edge technologies and practices. By actively participating in these associations and forums, leaders can stay engaged with the latest developments in the field. My brother Larry Conley is the deputy chief of training for the Collinsville (IL) Fire Department with over 30 years in the fire service, yet he is a member of multiple fire service organizations. I have seen the sharing of knowledge between him and other professionals in real time. This practice proactively improves the fire service as a whole. We also host a platform of our own that encourages great leadership habits at all levels of the fire service. If the access to a forum that speaks to your passion or interest is limited in your area, consider starting a chapter in your area or starting a brand-new forum from scratch. Surely there are other firefighters whose interests align with yours. Knowledge spreads best through collaboration.
4. Collaborate with other agencies and organizations: Fire service leaders should seek opportunities to collaborate with other agencies, organizations, and research institutions. This can involve participating in joint training exercises, sharing best practices, and conducting research on new technologies or firefighting techniques. May departments rely on mutual aid, but waiting for an emergency to collaborate with neighboring departments is like waiting for a funeral to have a family reunion. Proactively fostering a training relationship with different departments can streamline mutual aid situations and facilitate an increase in the vocational IQ of all the departments involved. By fostering collaboration, leaders can tap into a wider pool of knowledge and expertise, gaining insights that can enhance their own agency’s performance.
5. Stay informed through publications and online resources: Fire service leaders should regularly read industry publications, journals, and websites that focus on new trends and technologies in the field. The fact that you are reading this article suggests you already understand this tip. Subscribing to newsletters and following reputable fire service blogs can also provide a steady stream of information on the latest advancements. The Internet also provides access to video tutorials on the latest equipment, technologies, and tactics. These can be discussed in the forums online, but also in the engine house as part of team training. This knowledge helps create a shorthand among team members when these emerging situations occur in our ever-changing world. Firefighters can quickly identify and adopt new technologies that can improve operational efficiency, firefighter safety, and effectiveness. This ensures that their department remains up to date with the most advanced tools and equipment available.
Leaders who prioritize continuous learning and encourage their teams to do the same create an environment where new ideas are valued and implemented. This can lead to the development of novel approaches, technologies, and solutions that can transform the fire service landscape and improve overall performance.
At the Individual Level
For the individual firefighter, being proactive means always prioritizing personal safety. Firefighters who actively participate in physical fitness programs, maintain their equipment, and continuously update their skills are better prepared to handle the physical and mental demands of their profession. By taking proactive measures to protect themselves, firefighters can reduce the risk of injury or burnout, ensuring they are always ready to respond to emergencies and save lives.
One crucial aspect of being proactive for firefighters is paying attention to physical fitness. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and routine medical maintenance are vital for maintaining optimal physical readiness. Firefighters are industrial athletes, facing physically demanding tasks such as carrying heavy equipment, climbing ladders, and rescuing individuals from dangerous situations. By maintaining a high level of physical fitness, firefighters can minimize the risk of line of injury and perform their duties effectively.
Heart attacks are a significant concern for firefighters. They are the leading cause of death within the profession. Intense physical exertion combined with exposure to extreme heat and smoke puts a tremendous strain on the cardiovascular system. A lack of attention to physical readiness creates a ticking time bomb inside firefighters that threatens to explode without warning. Prioritizing physical fitness and implementing healthy lifestyle choices can help firefighters reduce the risk of heart attacks and cardiovascular disease. Engaging in activities such as cardio workouts, strength training, and flexibility exercises can improve cardiovascular endurance, strengthen the heart muscle, and lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, following a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains further supports cardiovascular health. These proactive life changes must become a habit to have the long-term desired effect.
It is equally important for firefighters to proactively participate in a mental and emotional fitness regimen. Firefighters often witness traumatic and distressing situations that can have a long-lasting impact on their mental well-being. Ignoring the emotional toll of these experiences can lead to negative effects on their overall mental health, potentially contributing to the alarming suicide rate among first responders. It is easy to ignore the insidious effects of repeated emergency situations on the psyche. Firefighters potentially see the type of trauma daily that civilians may only see once in a lifetime. The notion that the answer is to push it down and push forward creates an emotional fire load within. Firefighters must be proactive about their mental and emotional health, which means seeking support from trained professionals, such as therapists or counselors who can assist in unpacking and processing the emotional challenges faced on the job. Participating in regular therapy sessions or debriefings can help firefighters develop healthy coping mechanisms, manage stress, and prevent the buildup of trauma.
Firefighters can also benefit from engaging in stress-reducing activities outside of work. This can include hobbies, exercise, spending time with loved ones, or practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises. By proactively caring for their mental and emotional health, firefighters can reduce the risk of burnout, improve their overall well-being, and decrease the alarming suicide statistic in our service. Being proactive about your well-being is the best thing you can do to illustrate your commitment to the citizens.
At the Team Level
We can also apply this proactive attitude to improving our teams.
Proactive firefighters understand the importance of effective communication and collaboration within their teams. They proactively seek feedback, share information, and coordinate actions to ensure seamless operations during emergencies. This fosters a strong sense of camaraderie, trust, and mutual support, resulting in a cohesive and efficient firefighting unit.
Communication is not limited to just on-scene operations. It is equally crucial for team members to improve communication away from the emergency scene. By doing so, they can enhance overall team cohesion, accountability, and mental and emotional well-being. One way to improve communication among team members is to establish open and transparent channels of communication. This can be achieved through regular team meetings, where all members are encouraged to share their thoughts, concerns, and ideas. By giving everyone a voice, team members will feel valued and heard, leading to increased trust and collaboration. This requires a proactive attitude because this type of communication is developed deliberately.
Furthermore, it is essential to foster an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their emotions and seeking support from their colleagues. Firefighting can be a highly stressful and emotionally challenging profession, and having a support system within the team can greatly improve mental and emotional well-being. By creating accountability partners, team members can check in on each other regularly, offer support, and help identify signs of stress or burnout. When team members feel connected and supported, they are more likely to perform their duties effectively and efficiently.
Proactive vs. Reactive
Ignore the proactive principle at your own peril. Choosing the other path can lead to being more reactive as an individual, team, and department. Some might argue that the job itself is largely reactive, in the sense that a citizen must send out a call of distress in order for our teams to be activated or respond. Yet being proactive before the emergency is a way for agencies and individual firefighters to have a more effective reaction.
Firefighters who adopt a purely reactive approach often find themselves making decisions under pressure, with limited time for analysis and evaluation. This can lead to suboptimal outcomes, increased risks, and compromised safety for both firefighters and the public they serve.
A reactive mentality can have a detrimental effect on firefighters both physically and mentally. When operating in a constantly reactive mode, firefighters may find themselves constantly on high alert, always anxious about emergencies. This can result in chronic stress, leading to physical exhaustion, sleep deprivation, and increased susceptibility to illness and injury.
Mentally, constantly reacting in an unprepared fashion to emergencies can take a toll on a firefighter’s cognitive abilities. That lack of preparation can lead to apprehension about decisions that need to be made in the moment. This compromised critical thinking can potentially lead to poor judgement and decision-making, with serious repercussions on the fireground, where split-second decisions can make the difference between life and death.
Additionally, a reactive mentality can encourage laziness, apathy, and vocational apathy among firefighters. When constantly in a reactive mode, there may be a tendency to become complacent and rely solely on past experiences rather than actively seeking continuous learning and improvement. This lack of proactive engagement can lead to a decrease in motivation, a decline in skill development, and a disconnect from the overall mission of protecting the community. This laziness and apathy can create an environment where safety protocols and best practices may be overlooked or disregarded, leading to an increase the risk of accidents, injuries, and even fatalities for both firefighters and the public. Vocational apathy can also result in a lack of commitment to ongoing training, maintenance of equipment, and staying up to date with emerging technologies and firefighting techniques. This can leave the team ill-prepared to handle new challenges and evolving hazards.
Failing to be proactive means neglecting the opportunity to identify areas for improvement and implement preventive measures. This can result in recurring incidents, preventable accidents, and increased operational costs for fire departments.
How do we cultivate a proactive mindset? Here are a few tips:
1. Embrace a mindset of continuous improvement. The minute you think you know everything is the minute you start to fail as a fire service professional. We must adopt the notion that there is always some area of improvement in our personal and professional development. My brother always says: “There is no such thing as a maintenance-free garden. Just when you think you have pulled up all the weeds, another one pops up.” Understanding that perfection is a journey is the first big step toward establishing a proactive mindset.
2. Set clear goals for personal and professional growth and develop actionable plans to achieve them. When you can see these goals on paper, it encourages proactive attitudes and actions to reach the goals. Proactive firefighters regularly evaluate their progress and make necessary adjustments to ensure they are on track. Goal setting can be a valuable tool for individuals and for teams. Keeping the goal in front of yourself is the best way to stay focused on crystallizing your new proactive mentality.
3. Prioritize tasks, delegate responsibilities, and create efficient systems to maximize productivity for yourself and your team. Being proactive in managing time allows firefighters to allocate sufficient resources to important activities, preventing last-minute rushes and reducing stress.
4. Engrain the proactive mindset into the DNA of your team and department. Leaders within fire teams and departments should promote and reward proactive behaviors. Encourage open communication, idea generation, and participation in continuous improvement initiatives. By fostering a culture of proactivity, fire departments can unleash the potential of their personnel and ensure a high level of performance.
Being proactive is not just a desirable trait for firefighters; it is a necessity. By embracing a proactive mindset, fire service professionals can enhance their leadership goals, improve as individuals, and contribute to the success of their teams and departments. The benefits of being proactive are far-reaching, from preventing crises and achieving operational excellence to fostering a culture of safety and innovation. Let us make being proactive our way of life within the fire service, ensuring we are always prepared to protect and serve our communities.
David Martyn Conley is a leadership and communication consultant. He currently serves as the Creative Director for LDC, LLC. He travels the country teaching personal leadership to fire service professionals.
