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This episode features Nick Brunacini, Chris Stewart and John Vance.

Review and comment on the proposed NFPA 1700 standard here: https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/nfpa-1700-standard-development/1700

Review the proposed changes to the OSHA standard on fire departments / fire brigades here: https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/federalregister/2024-02-05

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This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on December 5, 2024.

This episode dives deep into NFPA 1700, the  standard for structural firefighting, and its ongoing revisions. We discuss the importance of public engagement in the comment period and the implications these standards have on safety, efficacy, and operations in the fire service. 
• Overview of NFPA 1700 and its significance 
• Recent developments and updates in the standard 
• Importance of the public comment period 
• Role of data and research in shaping standards 
• Connection between NFPA 1700 and OSHA regulations 
• Engaging firefighters in the standardization process 
• Reframing standards as an opportunity for enhanced safety 
• Establishing effective supervision during operations 
• Need for unified language in firefighting protocols 
• Call to action for firefighter engagement in standard updates

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This is part 2 in our series talking about Carbon Monoxide Incidents. This episode features incident audio with a rescue.

This episode features John Eadicicco, Josh Blum and John Vance.

Download the SOGs

• Blue Card Natural Gas SOG
• Blue Card Carbon Monoxide Incident SOG

We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

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This episode was recorded on December 16, 2024.

John Eadicicco
Captain, Loveland-Symmes (Ohio) Fire Department
Assistant Chief, Lockland (Ohio) Fire Department
Assistant Chief John Eadicicco is a 27-year veteran of the fire service. He holds a degree in fire service administration from Columbia Southern University and is a graduate of the Ohio Fire Chiefs’ Association’s Ohio Fire Executive Program. Chief Eadicicco is a lead instructor for Blue Card’s SAFE-T Train-the-Trainer program. He is also a rescue technician with Hamilton County (Ohio) Urban Search and Rescue and an Ohio Region 6 Swift Water Response Team commander. Chief Eadicicco is lead instructor and curriculum developer with the Hamilton County Working Group, delivering Tactical Thermal Imaging, Company Officer Decision-Making, Rescue Operations, and Engine and Truck Company Operations classes.  In addition, Chief Eadicicco is an Ohio Certified Firefighter 2, Fire Instructor, Live Fire Instructor, Fire Safety Inspector and an EMT.

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This episode features Chris Stewart, Josh Blum and John Vance.

Download the SOGs

• Blue Card Natural Gas SOG
• Blue Card Carbon Monoxide Incident SOG

We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

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This episode was recorded on November 25, 2024.

We talk about the complexities of managing natural gas and propane leaks, with a focus on preventing explosive situations. Our conversation provides insights into distinguishing between gases like natural gas, which rises, and propane, which sinks. With real-life examples of the catastrophic potential of gas leaks, we underscore the importance of maintaining safe practices, including gas level monitoring and collaboration with energy companies. Learn best practices for handling gas fires and propane-related incidents, emphasizing life safety, property protection, and strategic resource allocation in emergency scenarios.

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This episode features Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison and John Vance.

We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://youtu.be/-Wb5lA6f1uw

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Read the "8 No Brainer Boss Strategies" article here: https://conta.cc/3zY8FOH

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This episode was recorded November 14, 2024 at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix, AZ.

Leadership in the fire service isn't just about strategy; it's about knowing when to step back and let the team shine. Through real-life stories and key learnings from industry veterans, we highlight the balancing act of power, recognition, and accountability within fire departments. From the dynamics of operational versus administrative roles to the critical importance of maintaining focus on core values, our discussion offers a candid look at the complexities of leadership.  

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This episode features Nick Brunacini, Pat Dale and John Vance.

Here is the informtion on the Drexel University study.

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This episode was recorded at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix,  Arizona on November 14, 2024.

What if the key to transforming firefighter safety and engagement lies not in more equipment or training, but in the art of leadership? Pat Dale joins us and shares insights from his collaboration with Drexel University, revealing how leadership commitment can significantly impact mental health, reduce injuries, and address burnout and disengagement. Insights from a Fire Rescue One survey highlight a pressing need for effective leadership, revealing that many firefighters feel disengaged due to leadership challenges.

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This episode features Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison and John Vance.

We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://youtu.be/-Wb5lA6f1uw

Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/Buckslip

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This episode was recorded October 17, 2024 at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix, AZ.

Join John Vance, Nick Brunacini, and Terry Garrison as they unpack the remarkable dynamics between a fire department's administration and labor, showcasing the power of mutual respect and defined roles. Hear from Nick about the robust bond between a fire chief and union president, and how this unique partnership can revolutionize work and customer service standards.

Reflect on the challenges faced during the COVID pandemic, particularly the vaccination mandate for paramedic students, as Terry Garrison shares a personal story of navigating resistance with openness and resolve. Discover the importance of collaboration with union representatives and how it mirrors other safety protocols, ensuring harmony even in adversity. This episode is packed with anecdotes that highlight the need for a structured chain of command, especially in smaller departments, to support the workforce and deliver exceptional community service.

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We talk politics and how it relates to labor relations and ultimately doing what is best for the fire department.

This episode features Nick Brunacini, and John Vance.

We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://youtu.be/-Wb5lA6f1uw

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This episode was recorded October 17, 2024 at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix, AZ.

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This episode features Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison, and John Vance.

We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://youtu.be/-Wb5lA6f1uw

Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/Buckslip

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This episode was recorded October 18, 2024 at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix, AZ.

Dive into the intricacies of leadership within fire departments, where the philosophy of the fire chief can dramatically influence morale and effectiveness. Through personal accounts and insights, we highlight the importance of supportive leadership and explore innovative programs like Silverback and Cool Command designed to empower leaders in firefighting and beyond. From controversial practices to the essential need for calm leadership in crisis situations, this episode offers a compelling look at the challenges and solutions in fire service leadership today.

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This episode features Nick Brunacini, Josh Blum and John Vance.

We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

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This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on October 18, 2024.

We tackle a question from a listener: Should good news be announced or should silence be maintained until prompted during fire incidents? You'll hear firsthand the importance of sharing completed objectives and how this can critically impact emergency response.

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This episode aired originally on November 28, 2021.

What is a CAN report, status change or priority traffic? What is the anatomy of a good roof report? We answer those questions plus tackle a Timeless Tactical Truth on this B Shifter!

Nick Brunacini is the leader of B Shifter and Blue Card. He joined the Phoenix Fire Department (PFD) in 1980. He served seven years as a firefighter on different engine companies before promoting to captain and working nine years on a ladder company. Nick served as a battalion chief for five years, and in 2001, he was promoted to shift commander. He then spent the next five years developing and teaching the Blue Card curriculum at the PFD’s Command Training Center. His last assignment with the PFD was south shift commander; he retired from the department in 2009. Nick is the author of “B-Shifter—A Firefighter’s Memoir.” He also co-wrote “Command Safety.”

Contact Nick Brunacini at [email protected]

Josh Blum, Blue Card Program Manager and has been in the fire service since 1993. He began his service as a volunteer firefighter before accepting a full-time career position. Josh served as the deputy chief of operations for the Loveland Symmes (Ohio) Fire Department, where he measurably increased the department’s training and operational effectiveness. Josh retired from Loveland Symmes in 2020 and now works for Blue Card as the program manager in all aspects of curriculum development and program delivery. Josh continues to work directly with departments throughout Southern Ohio assisting with training and fire department operations. Josh has developed and managed many fire service training programs throughout his career. He is a graduate of the Ohio Fire Executive Program

Contact Josh Blum at [email protected]

This episode is produced and edited by John Vance at [email protected]

Production Assistant, Katie Brunacini