Engine Company Operations
Sergeant Nick Martin - District of Columbia Fire Department, Washington DC
Friday May 17th (13:00 – 17:00)
This program will focus on several street-smart techniques to improve the efficiency and capabilities of an engine company crew. Student will learn techniques in using 2.5” hoselines for aggressive interior attack, methods of quickly stretching lines over extended distances, low manpower backup firefighter skills, and advanced nozzle control techniques. As the backbone of the fire service, engine company firefighters must have the skills and knowledge to overcome various challenges to get water on the fire. Basic firefighting programs, department level training, and department SOP's often do not adequately address these challenges or prepare firefighters with the skills necessary to overcome these common challenges. This program will address unique situations that occur at “tough fires” and require out of the box thinking. The program will focus on the following areas: - 2.5” Attack Lines: The 2.5” line is a staple component of an engine company, yet many firefighters look at it as unfit for a fast interior attack. Students will learn techniques for nozzle control and stream application as well as methods to make moving this heavy line much easier. - Stretching Long Distances: Students will learn the value of being able to stretch long distances as well as multiple techniques and details for racking and deploying such lines quickly. Students will overcome various obstacles and learn the visually estimate the stretch. - Tactical Nozzle Techniques: Students will learn techniques that will allow them to get water on a “tough fire”, including different body and nozzle positions that allow attack on heavily venting fire conditions. We will also cover techniques for redirecting nozzle reaction force to make stream management easier with reduced staffing. - Backup FF Skills: Students will learn skills for overcoming obstacles and stretching dry and charged lines during the stretch to make for unhampered attack on the fire with emphasis on low manpower.