Speed kills firefighters. Acting hastily or too quickly on the fireground can cause you to make a serious, life-threatening error in judgment. Slow down! Pace yourself at a fire.

Do not get caught up in the excitement of the fireground scene. Think about what you must
accomplish at the fire and do it. Don't let the fire dictate your actions.

You should have a preplanned assignment before responding to the fire. Stick with the pre-plan and accomplish your assigned duty, even if others don't accomplish theirs.

• Vincent Dunn is a retired FDNY Deputy Chief. For more tactical advice and tips, go to Vincentdunn.com. For lecture information, call 1-800-231-3388.