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Dive Training / Videos With The Fire Cam

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Went diving last night as part of an PADI open water class at Whitestar Quarry in Gibsonburg, OH.  An extra set of eyes was needed and it was good to see how some of our new divers were progressing.  They all did well and completed the class.  I must confess, I dove dry and with a full-face mask while the new divers dove wet.

I took the Fire Cam Mini HD along to get a little footage of a couple of the skills.  We were primarily between 20 and 30 feet deep during the skill sets.  The waterproof cap for the camera worked well.

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My advice to the new divers afterwards was to keep diving, constantly work to improve buoyancy  control, stay calm, and be smooth.  The environments we get called to dive on are mostly technical, with little visibility, and sometimes scarcely supported dive profiles.  Be smart.  Feel free to add some noteworthy advice to the rookie divers in the comments section.  Check out the short videos below.

Mask flooding / clearing skill

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Fin pivot skill

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Great Fire Cam Mini HD Deal From The Fire Critic

Swimming & buoyancy control skill

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Bouyancy control skill

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FireVideo.net

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Posted by on May 25, 2013 • Filed under: All, Company Drills, Firefighter Training, Product Review, Technology & Communications, Training, Training & Development • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

HexArmor 4011 Gloves – Product Review

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New – out of the bag

After numerous hours of extrication training

We met the HexArmor crew at FDIC and they asked if we would review the new 4011 glove.  We’ve put several different gloves through the extrication paces.  Check out all of our reviews HERE.

Overall, these gloves provide great dexterity and impact protection at a firefighter friendly price.

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Description of the 4011 Gloves from the HexArmor website:

Above all else, an extrication glove must be tough.  Built to last through countless difficult missions, the EXT Rescue™ 4011 is the strongest, most dependable rescue safety glove available.  We armed this glove with our improved IR-X™ Impact Exoskeleton™ and an ISEA Level 5 cut-resistant palm, reinforced with our proprietary TP-X™ technology for added durability and grip.  We also double-stitched all exterior and interior seams and added a 2.5” Airprene™ Velcro® cuff, so this glove fits as well as it lasts.  The EXT Rescue™ 4011 is the HexArmor® commitment to the rugged vigilance of our first responders.  HexArmor® knows that you will never give up, and neither should your glove.

HexArmor on Facebook

 Pros:

  • Great dexterity.
  • Good grip.
  • The “Impact Exoskeleton” provides excellent protection.
  • These gloves were beat up pretty good during a week-long heavy rescue class and several tool demos.  No holes or cuts resulted.  Some notable wear on the palm side.  Overall durability solid.

Cons:

  • Not good protection when using torches.
  • I removed a sawzal blade from the saw after use and could feel the heat on my hand quickly.
  • Hands will be cold during winter months in northern Ohio.
  • Sizing was different.  I tried several sizes on and settled on a Large.  Normally, I wear XL.

Cost:

$49.99

www.hexarmor.com

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Posted by on May 17, 2013 • Filed under: All, Firefighter Safety & Health, Product Review, Vehicle Rescue • Tagged: , , , , , , , , ,

Tecgen Xtreme Non-Structural Turnout Gear – Product Review

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For the last few months during multiple non-structural training events I have been wearing Tecgen Xtreme’s jacket and pants.  The gear is lightweight, single layer, non-structural turnout gear.  If your big on firefighter health & safety, keep reading.  Tradition may say otherwise, but education and technology may be on to something here.

I was initially concerned about durability because of the single layer, however, after multiple heavy rescue trainings; the gear has held up well.  No holes yet, just some grease, red mud (from South Carolina), and other stains.

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From the Tecgen Xtreme website:

For most departments… up to 80% of responses are non-structural in nature. Now you have a choice for these types of calls.

70 and sunny during this heavy rescue class. Guess what we allowed the attendees to do? Yup, take the thermal liners out of the structural gear.

Smitty from Boron Extrication and I spent some time with the Tecgen Xtreme crew at FDIC.

TECGEN XTREME® garments are UL certified to exceed NFPA 1951 (Technical Rescue) and NFPA 1977 (Wildland Firefighting), making them the perfect choice for the following types of responses:

  • Extrication
  • Search and Rescue
  • MVA
  • Junior Firefighting / Explorer Programs
  • Wildland, Grass and Brush Fires
  • Confined Space
  • Trench Rescue
  • High / Low Angle Rescue
  • Good Will Calls
  • Support Personnel

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 Pros:

  • No break-in needed.
  • Lightweight and breathable.  I purposely wore this gear during the FDIC stair climb to feel the difference from working in structural gear.
  • Flame resistant.  During some torch training, some slag splashed onto the coat.  No burns to the skin underneath.
  • Much lower cost than structural turnout gear.  Could be worn for extrication, technical rescue, wildland, EMS assists to extend the life of turnout gear.
  • Multiple pockets with velcro closure are useful for small tools.

Snow showers in the morning kept me in structural pants.

Cons:

  • No water resistance.  You will get wet in the rain.
  • Will require additional undergarments during cold weather.

Cost:

About $500 for jacket and pants, but check with Tecgen Xtreme for exact pricing.

www.tecgenxtreme.com

From about November to the end of March in Ohio, I anticipate wearing structural gear simple for the warmth aspect.  However, during the spring, summer, and early fall months the Tecgen Xtreme gear is a great option to keep the core temperature of firefighters down.  With all the talk about health and safety, we should consider options to reduce heat stress during non-structural responses and training.  This gear will meet our expectations of reducing heat stress.

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Posted by on May 11, 2013 • Filed under: All, EMS Health & Safety, Firefighter Safety & Health, News, Product Review, Rescue, Special Operations, Technology & Communications, Training & Development, Wildland • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Haix Fire Flash Xtreme Boot Review

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It has been about two months since first zipping up the Haix Fire Flash Xtreme boots.  Since then, the boots have been worn on the stair-stepper, at a heavy rescue class in the red mud of South Carolina, at the Northern Ohio Fools heavy rescue 101 class in Norwalk, Ohio, during the FDIC stair climb, during a weeklong heavy rescue class at BGSU State Fire School, and on the job.  Ride along in the boots during the stair climb below.

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Specs from the Haix website:

NFPA 1971-2013, NFPA 1951-2013, NFPA 1992-2012, NFPA 1977-2011, CAN/CSA Z 195-2009*, ASTM F 2413-2011

  • STRUCTURAL, USAR, HAZMAT and Wildland
  • Secura Liner – will never pull out or wrinkle up over time
  • HAIX Sun Reflect leather keeps feet cooler in direct sunlight
  • waterproof/breathable with CROSSTECH®
  • HAIX® Lacing system for superior fit
  • KEVLAR® chainsaw protection
  • protective toe cap
  • puncture protection sole
  • Increased chemical protection
  • Nitrile/rubber sole
  • heat resistance

Pros:

  • Little to no break-in needed
  • Feet have not been sore or blistered after extended time in the boots
  • Feet stayed dry
  • Multi-use
  • Zipper seems heavy-duty
  • Personal preference, maybe…but the jump from rubber pull-ons to leather pull-ons is great and the jump from leather pull-ons to zip-ups is that much better again

Cons:

  • Tread could be a bit more aggressive for muddy / snow conditions
  • It took a little while to adjust lacing system, however, the boots felt like a custom fit when done
  • Loop on the back of the boot is useful for donning, however it takes a while to break in

Cost in the Haix Bootstore:  $365.00

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Going from pull-on boots to zip-ups changed my decade + routine of turning out.  Several brothers wondered if pants then boots slowed me down…nope.  I’m looking  forward to putting more miles, stairs, mud, heat, and snow on these boots.  If anything eventful happens as far as durability, we’ll let you know.

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Posted by on May 10, 2013 • Filed under: All, Firefighter Safety & Health, Product Review • Tagged: , , , , , , , , ,

Time To Get Back To Training, Burning, Breaking, & Cutting…

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One more quick post on some of the people we met at FDIC 2013 then back to our regular scheduled training posts.  We’ll also be adding a few posts here and there about FF Brian Hackenburg’s triathlon fundraiser for the National Firefighter Endowment (click the logo on the righthand column for more info).

OTHER FDIC POSTS HERE & HERE

Some of these people below are firefighters, instructors, and/or innovators.  Be sure to check them for training and equipment.  Next week we’ll be teaching in the Heavy Rescue class at BGSU State Fire School.  There are 6 semi cabs, 3 school buses, 2 garbage trucks, and 16 cars lined up for 30 firefighters to cut on.  We will try to get pictures up each day next week and if time permits a post each night with a few lessons learned or teaching points.

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Chris Moren and The Pig, Hasenmeier, Smitty from Boron Extrication

THE PIGSKIN REVIEW & THE PIG REVIEW

Sarah from Tecgen Xtreme, Hasenmeier, Smitty from Boron Extrication, and Todd from Tecgen Xtreme

Climbed for Douglas Miller, Rescue 5

We had a good time wearing the lightweight extrication gear from Tecgen Xtreme.  We wore the gear during the stair climb, although lighter than structural gear; we found that it would provide a definite advantage during extrication, wildland firefighting, and other technical rescue operations.  You can talk health and safety until your blue in the face, but is structural gear necessary for fighting a non-structural fire or working an extrication?    Reducing internal core temperature while prolonging the life of structural gear may be a growing trend.

We also heard a few grumblings of us wearing extrication gear during the climb and not structural gear.  Well, those grumblings are certainly unfortunate considering the cause, brotherhood at the event, and funds raised for the NFFF.  If anybody has the brass axes to criticize from a computer screen this year, then here is my proposal for next year:  I’ll climb next to you next year at FDIC with structural gear plus an airpack and make the donation for your entry fee.

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The Haix Fire Flash Xtreme boots were awesome during the stair climb. With Tracey Cline.

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Hasenmeier, Ryan Pennington (Views from the Jumpseat), Antonio Cugini (FoxFury), & Smitty from Boron Extrication

Packexe CEO Andrew Orchard talking with us about some new Packexe Smash developments.  Read our review HERE

We dropped in on the FoxFire booth on the way to the stair climb.  I had some helmet tets on my helmet, but right away Zac from FoxFire threw some helmet bands our way.  Check out the many illuminating products they have in addition to the new SCBA ID Tags.

We’ve been using the First Responder Jack during training for some time now.  Read the review HERE.  It was nice to meet Jeff Pugh along the way.

First Responder Jacks

It was nice to place a name with a face on several occasions, see the latest / greatest equipment, and chat with countless Brothers.  Now it’s time to get back to learning, burning, breaking, and cutting…

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Posted by on April 30, 2013 • Filed under: All, EMS Health & Safety, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighter Training, Innovation, Leadership, News, Product Review, Training, Training & Development, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

FDIC 2013 – A Busy Thursday

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It’s been a busy day at FDIC.  We’ve met up with some old friends and made a bunch of new ones.  This is just a quick glimpse of some of our stops today.  More to come on Facebook and Twitter as our next stop is the NFFF’s Stop, Drop, and Rock dinner and auction.

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Dropped in on the First Responder Jack booth. A basic tool for rescue. Check out our review on the review page.

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Great crowd at the Tecgen Extreme booth. Check them out in booth 403 and enter for the free gear giveaway.

ENTER THE TECGEN XTREME GEAR GIVEAWAY

Chris Moren and The Pig. Check out our review on the review page. With Smitty from Boron Extrication.

Dropped in on the Haix booth # 713. Will be wearing Haix boots during the stair climb tomorrow. In this picture is Tracey Cline (Early deCline) who will be opening the NFFF Stop, Drop, and Rock event tonight.

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Posted by on April 25, 2013 • Filed under: All, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Training, Innovation, Product Review, Rescue, Technology & Communications, Training, Training & Development, Vehicle Rescue • Tagged: , , , , , , , ,

Mechanix ArmorCore Extrication Gloves – Product Review

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This is the second pair of Mechanix gloves we have been asked to use and review.  Read the first review on the Mechanix Wear Leather Extrication Gloves HERE.

Here is part of the ArmorCore Glove description right on the Mechanix site:  For use by fire, safety and rescue professionals, this super-duty glove represents the ultimate combination of advanced protective technology and highest quality materials. Our proprietary cut and puncture resistant fabric lines the palm side of the glove and is reinforced with genuine goatskin leather in high wear and gripping areas. The top of the hand is protected by a Kevlar® outer shell as well as TPR knuckle and full-length finger protection. Combined with reflective materials throughout the top of hand and fingertips, this glove has it all.

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Advantages:

  • Dexterity and grip
  • Excellent knuckle protection
  • Wrist cuff to prevent debris from getting into glove
  • No loss of function when wet

Advisories:

  • No bloodborne pathogens protection
  • No chemical protection
  • Not waterproof
  • Not for structural firefighting

Price: $89.99

These gloves have been wet, cold, muddy, and banged up pretty good at several extrication training over the last few months.  The only noticeable wear is on the palm side where the leather is not present.

READ THE ENTIRE ARMOR CORE GLOVE DESCRIPTION HERE

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Posted by on April 21, 2013 • Filed under: All, Firefighter Safety & Health, Product Review, Rescue, Training, Training & Development • Tagged: , , , , , , , ,

“WRAP THAT HOG” – The Pigskin – Product Review

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The Beltskin

Lt. Bronner’s new Pig (3-2013). Paracord and tape wrap on wood handle.

It has been a fun trip the last year with the firefighter innovators behind The Pig and The Pigskin.  We first met at FDIC 2012.  The Pig has become a pretty common firehouse tool name.  Read our review from last summer HERE.  This review is strictly about the Beltskin & Truckskin.  Lt. Skylar Putnam from Austin, TX put his leatherwork skills to use and found a way to wrap the hog in a useful way for firefighters.  He also does custom work.  Be sure to read the entire post.  The best work is toward the end.

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BELT-SKIN

STOP BY BOOTH 616 AT FDIC 2013 TO SEE

THE PIG AND THE PIGSKIN

Specs:

  • 360 degree free rotating swivel
  • 2″ black steel D ring on a leather loop
  • 1″ leather loop (we added a carabiner to carry a light box)

Notice the velcro didn’t fully catch. Issue resolved.

Sown on holster created challenge with accessory placement.

A few things that we helped Lt. Putnam adjust were the velcro closure on the holster.  This one was an early model and he was trying to keep the closure as tight as possible.  All it took was a larger piece of velcro to ensure good closure when the leather is new and as it gets worn in.

Lt Putnam has also started making the holster so it slides on the belt.  The Belt-Skin in the picture above has a holster that is sown onto the belt.  This prevents greater adjustment and it also makes adding accessories to the buckle side a challenge.  Regardless, good ol firefighter innovation out of Texas solved the issues.
Lt. Bronner is now using the Belt-Skin with his new Pig.

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 TRUCK-SKIN

Specs:

  • friction swivel (allows for the handle to be put in any direction and stay)
  • 2 old school steel clips on left side for a light box
  • custom stamped lumbar plate with name (HASENMEIER – the longest yet out of The Pigskin shop)
Mr. Pigskin really went above and beyond when he sent up a custom Truck-Skin to Ohio.  It truly is a work of art and is firefighter functional.  I have donned the Truck-Skin before getting in the truck, during the ride (with a seatbelt on), and after arrival to the scene.  All are good options depending on your preference.
The holster is made so it slides on the belt making placement on your hip easy.  I asked for two old school steel clips on the left hip for a light box.  They work perfectly whether using one or two.

Truck-Skin with Friction Swivel

To be honest, I was a little hesitant to try the new Friction Swivel, however, it made sense during our conversations.  After jumping in and out of the truck, crawling, and walking; I would highly recommend the friction swivel.  Think for a second about walking with an axe in your SCBA belt or your other holster; you can probably remember the handle going between your legs causing you to stumble.  The handle of the tool can be moved to whatever position you want it and then it stays put.

MORE ABOUT WRAPPING YOUR HOG OR CUSTOM LEATHER WORK HERE

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Posted by on April 17, 2013 • Filed under: All, Firefighter Safety & Health, Innovation, Product Review, Training & Development, Uncategorized

Busy Week…Bee Cupcakes, FF Survival, Dummies, & more

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It’s been a busy week as most of the guys have been training here, there, and everywhere and some have even been studying for college classes or thinking about taking some.  Some of the highlights are included below.  More to come tomorrow as many of us are headed to a Firefighter Survival Seminar hosted by the Northern Ohio Fools.

A little over a week ago I posted about our Rookie Firefighter the Sweat Bee.  If you missed it check it out HERE.  Last Sunday (Super Bowl Sunday) Charlie’s fiancee got in on the mix by bringing the “Hornets” some bee cupcakes.  What a treat.

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This past Wednesday, February 6th was the 3rd anniversary of a very successful rescue of Columbus Division of Fire Lt. Polasky after he went into cardiac arrest while operating at a basement fire.  Many of you have seen the video, but in case you haven’t  be sure to spend 30 minutes watching it with your crew.  Then get out and train together.  If you have already seen the video, watch it again, and then go train some more.

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CMC sent us a MPD to train with.  Many who have used the MPD say that it simplifies rope rescue systems.  Be sure to comment with any input you have.  We will be getting more pictures up soon.

We also picked up a few more parts to our new friend that is growing bigger and bigger.  Won’t be long and he’ll be getting abused on a training ground.

Last but not least, Uncle Pigskin shipped up a new lumbar plate and a couple of flashlight clips.  Once, they are installed we’ll share the picture.  Word out of the leather shop is that a truckskin may be headed North soon.  Be sure to check out his work.  Lot’s of custom work being done and accessories for numerous types of belts.

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Posted by on February 8, 2013 • Filed under: All, Company Drills, Firefighter Training, Innovation, Product Review, Rescue, Training, Training & Development • Tagged: , , , , , , , , ,

A RYNO In Your Pocket – What’s That All About?

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Some of the tools available.

 

Over the last few weeks we have had the opportunity to review and provide feedback on Ryno Concealment’s tool caddy.  They have been making gun holsters and other accessories for some time.  The founder, Ryan, is a Kansas City firefighter by trade and his innovation is tested on the streets.  He wanted some feedback from a different perspective, so we added our 2 or 3 cents.  He has been receptive to the ideas and the product seems to be a solid piece for all firefighters from big city to small town.

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The tool caddy is made with Kydex, which is a thermoplastic sometimes used in place of leather.  It is a hard material that requires heat to mold into position.  Ryan’s secrete is a toaster oven that was collecting dust in his basement.  Below is a picture of the tool caddy when it first arrived.  It included channellocks, an 11 in 1 screwdriver, and cutters.

 

The demo caddy

One problem we first experienced was the screwdriver tips fell out of the handle when riding in the bunker pocket.  We also predicted that the screwdriver tips could potentially puncture the bunker pocket.  Ryan was receptive to fixing the problem and came up with the fix in the picture below.  The screwdriver is solid in the caddy, but comes out easily with a twist.  It is in black Keydex only because he ran out of orange.  You can get yours entirely in either color.

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Reviewing this tool caddy all started a month or two ago after I posted a picture of my old tool pouch that had tools falling through some holes.  I was pretty used to pulling the old tool pouch out of the bunker pocket and selecting the tool needed.  So, securing the new tool caddy into the pocket was not a huge deal.  However, several other firefighters thought it would be a good idea to tie the caddy into the pocket to allow for one-handed tool removal.  After consulting with Ryan, he suggested using paracord.  We weaved the paracod into the eyelets of the caddy and then put the cord through the drain holes in the bottom of the pocket.  Two overhand knots on top of each other prevented the paracord from being pulled through when removing a tool.  Check out the video below for a demonstration.  The last tool removed (cutters) seemed a bit tight, but will probably become a bit more smooth after use.

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Several options of cutters. Ryan is saying the small bolt cutters on the left are awesome. We have not played with them, but did see his video demonstrating cutting a 16d penny nail with one hand.

Be sure to contact Ryan via Facebook, cell 816-898-7246, or his website linked below for a new tool caddy.  He can also make a custom caddy if there are other tools you prefer.

RYNO CONCEALMENT

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Posted by on January 24, 2013 • Filed under: All, Innovation, Product Review • Tagged: , , , , , , , ,

More Training From The Horse Barn

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Last week we posted about a horse barn forcible entry training.  The project started when I was asked to help a young firefighter-to-be prepare for a high school demonstration.  Read last weeks post HERE.  Unfortunately, the young lad won’t be going to the regional qualifier because other students presenting on basket weaving and the aerodynamics of horseshoes were selected instead.   I don’t get it, we don’t get it, but all I can say is keep training and learning.

 

Jenga or blocks for the prop?

After last weeks post, we’ve had more interest in the training by some local firefighters.  Since we were teaching anyways we didn’t turn anybody away.  After a quick breakfast we all headed to the horse barn.  One good thing about an ad hoc training like this is that more guys add to the conversation and the passing of knowledge is easily transferred.

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Below is the firefighter-to-be demonstrating on the residential side of the prop.  Remember, this is one technique and not necessarily the gold standard.  Your text book teaches you one way and the street teaches you multiple ways.  In the video you will see how he works with two tools and rotates the tools so they work more efficiently.  At very least, this technique on this prop makes the firefighter think about tool placement and how the forces are applied.  Talk with your crews about the different options of forcing doors.

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Tool Caddy

In other news, we have been helping Ryan at Ryno Concealment refine his firefighters tool caddy.  The product is improving and being used on the street in Kansas City and several other locations.  They are working on a website, but for now be sure to “Like” the Facebook page for updates and contact information.  More coming soon.

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Posted by on January 13, 2013 • Filed under: All, Company Drills, Firefighter Training, Innovation, Instructorship, Leadership, Product Review, Training, Training & Development • Tagged: , , , , , ,

COAST Flashlight and Knife – Product Review

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We’ve had the opportunity to review two COAST Products.  Some thoughts on the HP14 LED Flashlight and Rapid Response 3.00 Knife are included in this post.  Overall, both seem durable and reliable enough for everyday use.

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HP14 LED Flashlight

Specifications from the COAST website:

  • Light output: High – 339 lumens; Low – 56 lumens
  • Runtime: High – 4 hours 45 minutes; Low – 20 hours
  • Beam distance: High – 175 meters (574 ft); Low – 36 meters (118 ft)
  • 4 x AA batteries (included)
  • Cyclone™ Heat Sink System
  • Aluminum casing; Anti-roll lanyard ring
  • High and low output modes
  • Impact and water resistant
  • 14.2 ounces (including batteries); 8.38 inch length
  • Diameter: Body – 1.37 inches; Bezel – 1.85 inches (more…)
Posted by on January 3, 2013 • Filed under: All, Product Review • Tagged: , , , , ,

Let The Snow Fly

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For the last several weeks we have given away a bunch of great products in the Before The Snow Flies Giveaway. Somehow, Smitty over at Boron Extrication and the FDT crew have managed to juggle what goes to who.  We certainly couldn’t have made it without the help of Shane at the National Firefighters Endowment.  Consider joining the Officers Club.

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If you missed the giveaway be sure to check out the links below.  One awesome part about these products is that they are used and tested by firefighters day in and day out.  Hopefully we can do this bigger and better in the future.

The Pig

The Pigskin

MN8 Fox Fire - offering 10% discount until Halloween – coupon code: spook

Detroit Fire Tees - tshirts

Firehouse Pride - attack wraps

Firevideo.net - fire cam

Ride Backwards - athletic wear

Other product reviews.

 

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Posted by on October 26, 2012 • Filed under: All, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighter Training, Product Review, Training & Development • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Before The Snow Flies Giveaway – MN8 Fox Fire

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The next product in the Before The Snow Flies giveaway comes from MN8 Fox Fire. Here is a little about the product from the Fox Fire website:

MN8-Foxfire is a firefighter owned company that develops, markets and sells revolutionary photoluminescent coatings and products that provide illumination for several hours and stay visible in complete darkness for up to 17 hours. Our products will charge in just a few minutes from any light source and can be recharged indefinitely. As a result, there is no need for any external battery, electrical, or energy source other than light.

They have given us a Helmet Band and a set of Helmet Tetrahedrons to give away this week.  Two winners will be picked on Friday October 19, 2012.  Be sure to enter the giveaway by following the link below.  The more you share on facebook via that link the more chances you have to win.

ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

Thanks to the National Firefighters Endowment for helping with the giveaway.  Be sure to check out and support the cause.

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Posted by on October 15, 2012 • Filed under: All, Firefighter Safety & Health, Product Review, Technology & Communications, Training & Development, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , ,

Ride Backwards

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Next up for the Before The Snow Flies Giveaway is a shirt from Ride Backwards.  Read more about the Ride Backwards crew and how this firefighter product for firefighters was born, HERE. They support some exceptional firefighter athletes as they pursue excellence in a variety of sporting events.  Read more about the athletes HERE.  You have to be quick on this one, a winner will be selected Sunday.  Then another product announcement.  Remember the more you share the more chances you have to win.

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ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

 

Be sure to check out the National Firefighters Endowment

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Posted by on October 12, 2012 • Filed under: All, Product Review • Tagged: , , , , , ,

WEEK 2: BEFORE THE SNOW FLIES GIVEAWAY

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If your just finding out about the Before the Snow Flies Giveaway be sure to catch up HERE and HERE.  This week starts off with a set of Attack Wraps from Fire House Pride and a tshirt from Detroit Fire Tees.  Make sure you enter the giveaway and “like” the Detroit Fire Tees and FireHouse Pride Facebook pages.

Thanks to the National Firefighters Endowment

ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

Posted by on October 7, 2012 • Filed under: All, Firefighter Safety & Health, Product Review • Tagged: , , , , , , , ,

Busting Wood & Quick Sh!t On The Wall

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We just wrapped up four company drills of forcible entry training with the Oregon (OH) Fire Department.    Many of the pictures are on the First Due Tackle facebook page.  Be sure to check them out.  We talked tools, technique, and brotherhood.

FDT ON FACEBOOK

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Posted by on October 6, 2012 • Filed under: All, Company Drills, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighter Training, Product Review, Training, Training & Development • Tagged: , , , , , , ,

Before The Snow Flies Giveaway – The PigSkin

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Wrap That Hog With The Pigskin

With The Pig

Sky Putman threw in The Pigskin for the Before The Snow Flies Giveaway.  The Pigskin is, at its most basic, a tool belt. It is made specifically to be used in conjuction with the most versitile and inovative forcible entry tool since the Haligan – THE PIG! The winner will get a Belt Skin 35″-48″.  The belt skin pictured to the left is the one we are reviewing.  Accessory rings are available at additional cost here.

A few more specifics about the handcrafted Pigskin: 2 1/2″ belt, 10-14 oz. wt. leather, hand cut, oiled, and sealed.

Enter The Giveaway

ONE WINNER WILL BE RANDOMLY SELECTED ON 10/7/12 @ 1700 HOURS EASTERN.  THE MORE YOU SHARE AND LIKE THE BETTER CHANCE YOU HAVE TO WIN THE PIG AND THE PIGSKIN.

As always thanks to the National Firefighters Endowment for their support.

Boron Extrication and First Due Tackle have teamed up to give you a chance to win some new equipment and swag.  We’ll announce a new product or more every week until the giveaway ends on October 31, 2012.  The more often you like and share, the more chances you have to win.  Be sure to review the rules on the Enter The Giveaway page linked below and check the blogs regularly for the next product announcement. 

Enter The Giveaway

Next product announcement will come right after Sunday’s drawing.  Stay tuned.

Pass it on!

Posted by on October 5, 2012 • Filed under: All, Innovation, Product Review, Training & Development • Tagged: , , , , , , ,

Before The Snow Flies – GIVEAWAY

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Boron Extrication and First Due Tackle have teamed up to give you a chance to win some new equipment and swag.  We’ll announce a new product or more every week until the giveaway ends on October 31, 2012.  The more often you like and share, the more chances you have to win.  Be sure to review the rules on the Enter The Giveaway page linked below and check the blogs regularly for the next product announcement.  

Special thanks to the National Firefighters Endowment for their help and support.  

This is the first product being announced for the giveaway.  Brother firefighter Chris Moren over at LoneStar Axe LLC jumped right on board.  You have a chance to get this 8 pound 28″ fiberglass handle Pig sent right to your door.

When was the last time you used the cutting edge of a fire service axe?

Read our review of The Pig, HERE - It includes more pictures and videos.

Check out Lonestar Ace LLC.

Enter The Giveaway

Pass it on!

Posted by on October 1, 2012 • Filed under: All, News, Product Review, Technology & Communications • Tagged: , , , , , , , ,

Glass Management Idea From Across The Pond

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We spent a morning with Packexe Smash CEO Andrew Orchard at a scrap yard in Michigan to demo a glass management product.  Mr. Orchard is not a firefighter, but seems to get what we do. He put his money where his mouth is by flying in from the UK to show us what his product is all about and to make sure we understood the application.  He even left us a bunch of Smash to use at upcoming classes and new terminology unrelated to the fire service.  We’ll explain the later over a beer after training.   Smitty from Boron Extrication set us up with a bunch of cars to test the product and get some tool time in.

To be perfectly honest, I had not thought much about glass management other than yelling “glass” or covering a victim/rescuer with a blanket before smashing a window out.  After thinking about it for a little while…when glass breaks – dust and fragmented pieces fly everywhere including: down your gloves, pants, and into the area where you are working.  My first thoughts were that this is another time consuming task that we don’t have time or personnel for.  Using the product changed my definition of glass management.  Will we use Smash on every wreck – No.  Will Smash help us manage glass and protect rescuers and victims sometimes – Yes.  After a little practice, the application is not time consuming at all and the value seems worth a few seconds.

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Posted by on September 15, 2012 • Filed under: All, Company Drills, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighter Training, Patient Management, Product Review, Rescue, Training, Training & Development, Vehicle Rescue • Tagged: , , , , , ,

Mechanix Wear Leather Extrication Gloves – Product Review

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Over the last few weeks during various trainings and prop builds, we have put the new Mechanix Wear Leather Extrication glove to the test.  Some of the specifics of the glove from the manufacturer are listed first followed by a video and several pictures.  The gloves are available on the Mechanix website now and from various retailers in the near future.

Here is a description of the Mechanix Wear Leather Education Gloves right from the web: Fire, Safety and Rescue professionals all can use the hand protection offered by the Leather Extrication glove. Premium Cowhide Leather protects the palm and between fingers while reinforced Kevlar® panels add grip and puncture resistance. The top of the hand is protected by a Kevlar® outer shell as well as TPR knuckle and finger protection. An elastic gaiter cuff keeps debris out, making this glove versatile enough for everything from extrication to overhaul.

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Posted by on August 27, 2012 • Filed under: All, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighter Training, News, Product Review, Training & Development • Tagged: , , , , , , , ,

UFO by Rock Exotica – Product Review

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We have been playing with the UFO from Rock Exotica a little bit lately.  The UFO is described as a Universal Focusing Object. A new generation of rigging plate allowing you to position in three dimensions.

Rock Exotica explains that rigging plates excel at keeping your rigging organized. They simplify the situation by multiplying anchors and keeping various lines orderly. (more…)

Posted by on June 28, 2012 • Filed under: All, Fire Rescue Topics, Innovation, Product Review, Rescue, Training • Tagged: , , , , , , ,

TheChipSite.com – Ceramic Chip – Product Review

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We had the opportunity to work with Sean over at TheChipSite when putting the FDT logo (designed by Fire Medic Art ) into action on a ceramic chip. The process was quick, < 2 weeks from first contact to chips on the door step.  As you can see in the computerized 3D rendering, the sides and edges can be used for your logo and print space. (more…)

Posted by on June 20, 2012 • Filed under: All, Product Review • Tagged: , , , , , ,
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