Jim Spell

Tactical Firefighting

Jim Spell spent 33 years as a professional firefighter with Vail (Colorado) Fire & Emergency Services, the last 20 years as a captain. He helped create the first student/resident fire science program west of the continental divide, formed the first countywide hazmat response unit and was on the original Colorado Governor’s Safety Committee. As founder of HAZPRO Consulting, LLC, Spell advises businesses on subjects ranging from hazard analysis and safety response to personnel development and organization. His writing has won six IAFF Media Awards. Spell has an associate's degree in fire science and a bachelor's degree in communications. His articles are available by Podcast at Fairreachforum.com, and his latest book is "Boot Basics: A Firefighter's Guide to the Service." Spell can be reached at editor@firerescue1.com.

Full list of Jim Spell results

The followership formula: How good followers make good leaders
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The legacy of followership is true to the past and focused on the future
Dispatch centers: The first of the first responders
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A back-to-basics review of communication center types and facility equipment, plus must-have dispatcher skills
Why firefighting is like football
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Winning and losing on both fields of play have more in common than you might think, while the stakes for one are much higher
From ‘span of control’ and ‘chain of command’ to ‘span of information’ and ‘chain of communication’
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Applying new concepts to accepted communication models could heighten fireground efficiency and effectiveness
Fire helmet selection for the modern world: Beyond knockdown and overhaul
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Consider key factors like shell materials, durability, weight and comfort
Firefighter training and certifications: Understanding the many levels
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A snapshot of the national, state and local requirements needed to advance in the fire service
How does your department exhibit, honor and manage fire service tradition?
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At its best, tradition is a moral compass; at its worst, it’s albatross hindering progress
‘Ego on their badge’: How ego impacts fire officer decision-making
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While pulling rank may drive immediate compliance, the resulting lack of trust and respect simply isn’t worth it in the long run
5 signs of low firefighter morale
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Decreasing productivity, lack of participation, bullying as humor, and a loss of confidence are the first signs of a problematic atmosphere in your firehouse
PTSD treatments for firefighters
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Summarizing the primary treatments currently being used to treat firefighters experiencing PTSD
Recognizing PTSD symptoms in firefighters
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Four common behavioral symptoms exhibited by firefighters suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder
7 firefighter training drills not found in books
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Most of these skill-building exercises can be used year-round and with minimal cost and equipment
Fire service disciplinary issues require swift, direct action
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Captain’s Masts and “badges on the table” discussions can help departments resolve problems and move on
A brief history of the fire service: From ancient equipment to modern technology
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Firefighters must be students of history to appreciate the evolution of the fire service and its impact on current fire tactics
Be a better firefighter with post-incident analysis
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Whether just starting a firefighting career or a seasoned officer, being adept at getting the most out of an after-incident critique makes firefighters and the department better
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