Fire Engineering Podcast

Hazardous materials training doesn't have to be a checkbox exercise. Bobby Salvesen of The Hazmat Guys joins Dave McGlynn to discuss ways to make hazmat instruction more engaging and practical.Drawing on his experience as a retired FDNY firefighter assigned to Hazmat 1 in Manhattan, Salvesen shares ideas for simple department hazmat drills, interactive instruction, and helping firefighters build skills they can use when a hazardous materials incident occurs.This episode is brought to you by IFSTA: https://www.ifsta.org/shop?utm_source=FE&utm_medium=PodcastSponsor&utm_campaign=IFSTA_FE&utm_term=IF...

What details in a thermal image can make a difference in fireground decision-making? Join Bullard Global Thermal Imaging Product Manager Brad Harvey as he explores how contrast, image processing, and colorization affect what firefighters see. Through a progression of thermal images, learn how technology brings out details, why those details matter on the fireground, and what to look for when evaluating thermal imagers.

How do fire departments prepare for a major international event? Eddie Buchanan talks with Steven Shaumeyer of the Kansas City (MO) Fire Department about the planning, technology, and interagency coordination involved in supporting the FIFA World Cup.They discuss regional response planning, mutual aid, patient transport, and technology used to maintain situational awareness during large-scale events. The conversation also explores how drones, tracking systems, and integrated software can support emergency operations and coordination across agencies.This episode offers insight for fire service leaders and emergency management professionals responsible for planning and responding to complex, large-scale events.This podcast is brought to you by Esri: https://www.esri.com/en-us/home

How do fire service leaders build a resilient department? Host Douglas Cline welcomes Battalion Chief Lauren Franklin of the Salisbury (NC) Fire Department to discuss personnel development, mentorship, leadership preparation, and organizational culture.They explore how investing in firefighters at every career stage builds confidence, adaptability, accountability, and stronger teams. From preparing future leaders to creating an environment where personnel can grow and succeed, this episode examines how intentional leadership development strengthens both individuals and the department as a whole.This episode is brought to you by The Fire Store: TheFireStore.com

Retirement from the fire service is about more than financial security. Forest Reeder, chief (ret.), Tinley Park (IL) Fire Department joins Larry Conley to discuss creating a personal succession plan that prepares firefighters for life after their careers end.They explore why planning five to ten years ahead matters, how to build purpose and relationships outside the station, and why firefighters need to prepare for the personal changes that come with leaving a career that has shaped their identity. The conversation also covers health, boundaries, leadership development, and finding meaningful ways to spend the next chapter of life.For firefighters and fire officers considering retirement, this episode offers a practical perspective on preparing for the transition before it arrives.This episode is brought to you by The Fire Store: TheFireStore.com