Join Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier on another episode of Rig Recon Live, featuring special guests Mike Wilbur and Tom Shand, the renowned Apparatus Architects. Dive into the critical aspects of pre-construction conferences for fire apparatus, including weight distribution, safety, and equipment layout. Learn about the complexities of modern fire truck specifications, the impact of long lead times, and best practices for assembling an effective committee. Don't miss this informative episode filled with industry insights and expert advice. Follow us on social media (@RigRecon), visit our website (rigrecon.com), and get the podcast on YouTube and other platforms.

Chapter Markers
00:00 Introduction and Housekeeping
01:21 Meet the Guests: Mike Wilbur and Tom Shand
04:38 Diving into Pre-Construction Conferences
05:34 The Importance of the Spec Process
07:17 Challenges and Changes in Pre-Construction
11:26 The Critical Role of Pre-Construction Meetings
22:48 Real-World Examples and Lessons Learned
34:27 The Ideal Committee for Firetruck Design
34:47 Key Members and Their Roles
36:14 Changes in Firetruck Specifications Over the Years
40:22 Pre-Construction Conferences: Timing and Importance
43:19 Challenges in Firetruck Manufacturing Costs
53:03 Safety and Weight Distribution in Firetrucks
01:01:27 Final Thoughts and Future Discussions

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In this episode of Rig Recon Live, hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier are joined by Drew Newman, Director of Lighting Sales at Will-Burt, to discuss the innovative and versatile lighting solutions offered by Will-Burt. With over 100 years in business and a focus on the fire service industry, Will-Burt is a leader in telescoping masts for various markets, including defense, cellular, broadcasting, and first responders. Drew shares insights on the applications of light towers, important considerations for specing a tower, and tips for operating in extreme conditions. The episode also features exciting news about Will-Burt's new partnership with Fire Research Corporation (FRC) to become a stocking master distributor for FRC's LED scene lighting products. Catch this informative episode to learn more about enhancing your emergency lighting solutions and stay tuned for an exciting announcement towards the end!

Chapter Markers:
00:00 Introduction and Social Media Plugs
01:04 Meet Drew Newman from Will-Burt
01:30 Overview of Will-Burt's Products and Services
02:51 Deep Dive into Light Towers
04:22 Technical Considerations for Light Towers
09:51 Cold Weather and Safety Features
18:23 Exciting Partnership Announcement
25:27 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

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Join hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier in this latest episode of Rig Recon Live as they sit down with Adam Graves, Director of First Responder Sales at Valor. Together, they dive into crucial topics like clean cabs, cab configurations, seating options, and air purification technologies in fire and ambulance apparatus. Discover how departments can effectively clean and protect their cabs and understand different seating materials and their maintenance. Get insights into SCBA seat configurations and the importance of considering risk reduction over mere checkbox solutions. This episode also introduces Valor's new semi-active seat technology designed to mitigate shock and improve ride comfort, particularly in tiller trucks. Tune in to learn the latest trends, best practices, and innovative solutions for first responders.

Chapter Markers:

00:00 Introduction and Social Media Plugs

01:18 Guest Introduction: Adam Graves

02:43 Understanding Clean Cabs

06:33 Air Purification Technology

14:18 Seating Material and Maintenance

18:33 The Importance of Cleaning Seat Belts

19:03 Vinyl vs. Material Seats: Pros and Cons

20:03 Identifying the Dirtiest Parts of Seats

21:59 SCBA in the Cab: Options and Considerations

22:50 Innovative Seating Solutions for Fire Trucks

27:28 Avoiding Common Mistakes in Cab Design

30:16 Final Thoughts and New Product Highlights

33:49 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

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In this episode of Rig Recon Live, host Bruce Quick discusses FDIC 2025, joined by Chris Martin (VP or Marketing), and Jason Witmier (Director of Education & New Technology), from Safe Fleet. The episode covers Safe Fleet's extensive involvement at FDIC, including their booths, new products, and hands-on training sessions at Lucas Oil Stadium. The team shares their experiences and provides valuable advice for first-time attendees to navigate the show. Tune in for an insightful preview of FDIC 2025 and learn how to make the most of this major fire industry event.

Chapter Markers:

00:00 Introduction and Social Media Plugs

00:53 Previewing FDIC with Chris Martin & Jason Witmier

01:39 Jason and Chris Share Their FDIC Experiences

03:22 Safe Fleet's Involvement at FDIC

03:41 Drill Yard Activities and Classes

06:49 Outdoor Booth and FEI Rig

09:36 Convention Center Booth and Product Highlights

16:22 Navigating FDIC for First-Time Attendees

19:05 Favorite FDIC Memories

22:18 Conclusion and Final Plugs

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In this episode of Rig Recon Live, hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier chat with Chief David Rhodes, VP of Content and Education, and Editor in Chief of Fire Engineering Magazine. They discuss FDIC 2025, including David's extensive background, the latest training programs, new hands-on workshops, and tips for first-time attendees. David also shares some of his favorite FDIC memories and highlights the collaborative culture of the event. Whether you're a seasoned firefighter or new to the industry, this episode provides valuable insights into what to expect at FDIC 2025.

Chapter Markers:

00:00 Welcome to Rig Recon Live
00:27 Introducing David Rhodes
00:48 David Rhodes' Background and Role
03:17 FDIC Overview and Key Numbers
04:57 New Classes and Workshops at FDIC
07:59 Hands-On Training and Feedback
17:09 Planning and Registration Tips
20:55 Exhibitors and QR Code Readers
21:06 Live Podcasts and Firehouse Subs Sponsorship
21:32 Firehouse Subs' Support for Firefighters
22:53 Navigating FDIC for First-Time Attendees
23:21 Must-See Events and Classes at FDIC
24:16 Opening Ceremonies and Keynote Speakers
27:08 Exhibitors and Product Demonstrations
29:10 The Unique Culture of FDIC
32:49 Special Summits and Technology Demos
36:06 Memorable FDIC Moments
39:22 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

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In this episode of Rig Recon Live, Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier host Larry Daniels, VP of Global Sales for REV Fire Group. Larry shares his extensive experience in the fire apparatus industry and discusses key topics including lead times, cost management, and ways to simplify the production of fire trucks. He also delves into the challenges the industry has faced since COVID-19, the importance of modular design, and how end users can help reduce delivery times and costs. The episode wraps up with exciting previews for the upcoming FDIC event, new product introductions, and the critical roles dealers play in customer satisfaction. Don't miss this insightful conversation that aims to make fire apparatus less complicated and more efficient.

Chapter Markers:
00:00 Introduction and Social Media Plugs
00:57 Guest Introduction: Larry Daniels
03:54 Industry Challenges: Lead Times and Costs
06:14 Innovations in Fire Apparatus Manufacturing
09:02 Modular Design and Program Units
17:17 Reducing Costs and Customization Challenges
24:51 Profitability and Market Realities
28:55 Maintenance and Longevity of Fire Trucks
31:13 Rev Fire Group's Unique Offerings
33:54 FDIC Preview and Conclusion

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In this episode of Rig Recon Live, hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier are joined by Danny Graham, Director of Sales at Kussmaul Electronics. They delve into the innovations Kussmaul is bringing to the fire and emergency services industry, including battery chargers, auto ejects, and idle mitigation systems. Danny explains the differences between IRS and IMS, how idle mitigation can prolong vehicle life and enhance safety, and the benefits of solar power charging systems. The episode also highlights important tips for buying new trucks and retrofitting existing ones, emphasizing Kussmaul's commitment to improving fire apparatus technology. Don't miss out on this informative discussion and make sure to follow Rig Recon on social media and visit their website for more content.

Chapter Markers:

00:00 Introduction and Social Media Plugs
00:55 Guest Introduction: Danny Graham
01:13 Danny's Career Journey
03:02 Kussmaul's Product Overview
03:52 Idle Mitigation Systems Explained
05:51 Importance of Idle Mitigation
10:19 Specifying and Retrofitting Idle Mitigation Systems
14:38 Solar Power Charging Techniques
18:10 Parasitic Loads and Battery Maintenance
22:12 Upcoming Innovations and FDIC
23:27 Conclusion and Final Remarks

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In this episode of Rig Recon Live, hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier explore the critical topic of Winter Apparatus Operations, focusing on how cold weather affects fire apparatus and firefighter operations. Learn about the impact of freezing temperatures on pumps, plumbing, walking surfaces, and other vital systems, and discover practical methods to prevent damage, such as circulating water and running a dry pump. The discussion also delves into the challenges posed by cold weather to aerial devices and electronic components, as well as strategies for firefighter rehab in freezing conditions. Stay informed and prepared as weather patterns change, making cold weather operations an increasingly relevant topic for fire departments everywhere.

Chapter Markers:
00:00 Introduction and Social Media Plugs
01:02 Winter Apparatus Operations Overview
01:47 Cold Weather Effects on Fire Apparatus Systems
04:45 Preventing Pump and Plumbing Freezing
06:01 Storage and Non-Pump Operations in Cold Weather
08:42 Handling Water Tanks in Freezing Conditions
10:22 Electronics and Air Systems in Cold Weather
12:50 Insulating and Heating the Pump House
16:11 Aerial Devices and Cold Weather
19:09 Firefighter Protection and Rehab
22:25 Proactive Steps for Cold Weather Operations
23:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Rig Recon Live, Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier dive into the world of the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association (FAMA). Joined by FAMA President Gary Pacilio, they discuss the organization's mission, its crucial role in the emergency vehicle industry, and its influence on safety standards, government advocacy, and industry technology. The discussion also highlights the upcoming 2025 Apparatus Design Symposium aimed at educating end users. Tune in to learn how FAMA supports both manufacturers and firefighters, enhancing technology, safety, and efficiency in fire apparatus.

Chapter Markers:
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:58 Introducing FAMA and Guest Gary Pacilio

01:24 Understanding FAMA's Mission and Structure

05:37 FAMA's Impact on End Users

09:23 Government Advocacy and Funding

15:09 Importance of FAMA Membership

17:58 Useful Tools on the FAMA Website

20:51 FAMA's Apparatus Design Symposium

26:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Welcome to another episode of Rig Recon Live! Hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier dive deep into the complexities of aerial apparatus specifications with the expert insights of Fire Chief Larry Di Camillo. Larry, with his extensive experience from the Houston Fire Department to his current role as Fire Chief for the City of Stafford, Texas, shares his thoughts on the impact of evolving technology on fire truck specs, the importance of community-specific needs, and the pitfalls to avoid. Learn about the key considerations for designing the tip of aerial devices, the pros and cons of manual vs. electric monitors, and why knowing your neighborhood matters. Tune in for valuable advice on keeping up with both technology and practical requirements. Whether you're part of an apparatus committee or simply intrigued by fire truck operations, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

Chapter Markers:
00:00 Welcome to Rig Recon Live
00:59 Introducing Larry D Camillo
01:58 Challenges in Aerial Apparatus Specifications
03:59 Technological Advancements in Fire Apparatus
05:08 Importance of Community Needs in Apparatus Design
10:21 Lighting Considerations for Aerial Devices
15:03 Balancing Usability and Functionality
20:51 Color Preferences for Aerial Devices
23:00 Egress Section and Color Coding
23:23 Designing the EXM2 Monitor
24:47 Water Flow on Aerial Devices
25:45 Manual vs. Electric Monitors
26:11 Specifying Electric Monitors
30:31 Platform Setup and Water Flow
32:26 Technology in Aerial Devices
34:01 Top Considerations for Specifying Aerial Devices
35:18 Common Mistakes in Aerial Device Specifications
38:19 Consulting Services Overview
41:30 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

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