Professional Development Training & Seminar Participation - FDIC 2014

Tuesday, April 8 thru Saturday April 12, 2014

Nature: Professional Development Training & Seminar Participation

Location: Indianapolis, Indiana

FDIC 2014 - During the period of Tuesday April 8th thru Saturday, April 12th, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company permitted six (6) officers and/or truck committee members to attend a premier training opportunity nationally and internationally for all levels of fire service practitioners.

The Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) hosted more than 24 hands-on training evolutions, numerous preconference workshops, and many classroom presentations. The six member delegation from the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company will obtain and/or enhance their knowledge, skills and abilities to train and assist our organization in further operational needs as well as review and evaluate the newest equipment, tools, apparatus, etc. as well as evaluate and review equipment specification for the new tanker replacement initiative.

Below is an example of the courses and activities attended: http://www.fdic.com/index.html

(1) "Reading Smoke: 2014 Update"

Battalion Chief (Ret.) David Dodson, Response Solutions, LLC

First-arriving decision-makers must assess fire and smoke conditions and anticipate fire behavior prior to interior engagement. This year's class blends the basic reading smoke process with some updated tactic interpretations and reinforces them with video. As always, students received some “street-tested” tips for first-due decision makers.

(2) Must-Have Policies for Every Fire Department

Assistant Chief Bradley Pinsky, Attorney, Pinsky Law Group, PLLC

Every fire department must have policies to prevent liability, comply with government regulations, increase the safety of operations, assist in defending budgets and operations, and maintain a public positive image. Policies instruct individuals on permissible conduct and can help to avoid liability. The hottest topics are addressed. Significant group participation is encouraged. The policies needed to address the fire department’s greatest risks are reviewed. More than 50 critical policies are covered, including those pertaining to the following: the organizational statement; firefighter physicals and health, training, and officer evaluations; federal safety requirements; driver training; discrimination and harassment; social media; workplace violence; and drug testing.

Additional opportunities for dialogue and discussion with our new Engine / Tanker manufacturer was discussed with our chosen vendors, manufacturers, and suppliers.

Story By: Administrative Public Information Officer