Fire Engineering Podcast Network

In this episode of Talking Tactics, hosts Dave Polikoff, Sam Villani, and Robert "RJ" James break down real‑world firefighting lessons: outside‑in fires, disciplined 360s, and why the first‑in officer must “call the play.” They discuss staging engine/truck resource and the importance of maintaining a team‑based mentality to stop strip and townhouse fires. The conversation also gets into deadly lightning‑induced basement fires tied to corrugated stainless steel gas tubing: how lightning can perforate piping, ignite concealed spaces, and why immediate gas shutoff and concealed‑space checks are critical.

in the books woodyard

Why is data-driven decision making so critical? Sean Duffy joins host Eric Dreiman to discuss the importance of search at fire scenes, data, and the analytical side of firefighting on this episode of Hooks & Hoses. Duffy shares his thoughts on his recent Fire Engineering article, “Fireground Decision Making: The Data‑Driven Edge for Search.” He draws on Firefighter Rescue Survey findings, FSRI research, and frontline experience. The conversation also touches on reasons why traditional occupancy cues can't be trusted. The guest and host share advice on developing search policies and training and communicating clear progress reports.

Host Christopher Naum discusses the fireground blueprint: how building construction, occupancy, and predictability drive risk, tactics, and safety. He reviews recurring summer incidents and line‑of‑duty deaths and the need to improve building literacy. He also looks at the following critical reads: the fireground, the building, the compartment, and the company. Naum outlines practical steps including curbside conversations, post-incident walkthroughs, increased training, and walking lecture tours and roundtables for building applied knowledge.

On this episode of Women in Fire, host Lisa Baker speaks with a panel to discuss the upcoming 2026 Women in Fire International Conference, in Austin, Texas. The conference will offer specialized training and networking for fire service professionals. The members of the panel emphasize that the environment allows attendees to drop their guards, build hands-on skills without fear of judgment, and establish mentorships with peers from around the United States. The conference also welcomes male firefighters and officers seeking to support their teams and improve department mechanics.
 
The Women in Fire Panel
Retired Lieutenant Heidi Simon from South Metro, Colorado
Retired Lieutenant WIllie Saulsberry from Gainesville, Florida
Firefighter/Paramedic Brooke Sims from Aurora, Colorado
Women in Fire Trustee Megan Saylors

On this episode of The Humpday Hangout, Frank Ricci sits down with Scott Martus to discuss his Fire Engineering article, "Two Systems, One Mission: How to Align ICS and HICS in a Crisis." Martus explores the critical relationship between the fire service and healthcare systems, highlighting how sponsor hospitals, medical direction, and hospital emergency management teams can serve as force multipliers during emergencies. He uses real examples to show what works and what doesn't. Ricci and Martus emphasize practical fixes: Empower medical dispatch triage, use nurse navigation and third-party call centers to reduce low-acuity engine responses, and align prehospital strategy with capacity to improve outcomes.
 
Link to Scott Martus’ article, Two Systems, One Mission: How to Align ICS and HICS in a Crisis: https://www.fireengineering.com/firefighting/fire-ems/two-systems-one-mission-how-to-align-ics-and-hics-in-a-crisis/

From modern construction and synthetic fuels to lithium-ion battery hazards, today’s fireground looks different. In this episode, Keith Stakes and Meghan Maloney of UL Research Institutes' Fire Safety Research Institute discuss what recent research is revealing about search, suppression, ventilation, and exposure reduction. Learn how the Fire Safety Research Institute works with the fire service to turn research findings into practical training to support more informed fireground decision-making.
Article link: https://www.fireengineering.com/fire-safety/enhancing-firefighter-health-and-safety-in-the-evolving-built-environment/ 
For more information about the Fire Safety Research Institute: https://s.ul.org/4g1syoH

Firehouse kitchens have always served as a hub where firefighters solve problems, share stories, and pass down institutional knowledge. On this episode of The Backstep Boys, hosts Ron Kanterman and Tom Aurnhammer examine the subtle forces shaping modern firehouse culture. They focus on the critical role of informal leaders: These include the experienced crew members and senior firefighters who maintain standards, mentor incoming probationary members, and preserve operational traditions without holding official rank.

Hosts Jason Hoevelmann and Jim Silvernail welcome Sean Duffy for a focused discussion on data-driven fireground decision making on this episode of Tactical Impact. They break down critical timelines and the reality of survivability in heavily involved structures. The panel also discusses why search should be a default action regardless of whether victims have been reported. 

In this episode of Point of Origin, hosts Billy Hux and Bobby Drake sit down with veteran fire investigator Nick Palumbo Jr. Palumbo looks back on his days as a 14-year-old explorer, his first ride-along investigating fires with his father, and how he got his professional start. He recounts memorable cases, discusses courtroom risks, and shares leadership lessons as well as his father's advice: Build your own reputation without disrespecting those who taught you.