Why I Teach: Sam Hittle

In this series, Fire Engineering Senior Editor Mary Jane Dittmar looks at the things that motivated and inspired instructors to present on their topics at FDIC International 2016. Segments will be posted on a regular basis up to and through the conference, April 18-23.

Samuel Hittle
Lieutenant
Wichita (KS) Fire Department

Forcible Energy Wins Are in the Details

I am passionate about forcible entry discussions centered on tactical concepts rather than statements. Although fire service statements are well-intentioned, practical to a relevant period, or specific to an application, time and modernization tend to diminish their applicability. If we understand the premise on which these statements were fashioned; however, we can make conceptual adjustments and exercise functional flexibility when confronted with unusual and formidable opponents.

The most significant feedback from this class has included other instructors reaching out for slides or information they can share within their sphere of influence. That is really what FDIC International is about, sharing with one another so we all walk away better able to respond. 

Hand entrapped in rope gripper

Elevator Rescue: Rope Gripper Entrapment

Mike Dragonetti discusses operating safely while around a Rope Gripper and two methods of mitigating an entrapment situation.
Delta explosion

Two Workers Killed, Another Injured in Explosion at Atlanta Delta Air Lines Facility

Two workers were killed and another seriously injured in an explosion Tuesday at a Delta Air Lines maintenance facility near the Atlanta airport.