Trending Topics
Spell_420x370-6.jpg

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 advised businesses on subjects ranging from hazard analysis and safety response to personnel development and organization. His writing won six IAFF Media Awards. Many of Spell’s articles are available by podcast at Fairreachforum.com. His last book was titled “Boot Basics: A Firefighter’s Guide to the Service.” Spell passed away in April 2024 after a short battle with cancer. His last four articles detailed his cancer journey.

LATEST ARTICLES
Steps to dealing with fear involves learning to understand, face and minimize negative reactions
Technological advances hold promise, but fireground principles and rudiments must be focus of ongoing training efforts
Fire officer tips for effective communication with firefighters at the station
Politics
Learn to employ smart political tactics while working toward the greater good
Even fire service content shared from private accounts can spread far beyond its intended audience
Incident Management
Reviewing the safety considerations, interagency planning and preplanning tools to aid firefighters
How to use communications systems to help ensure personnel accountability during wildfire events
What firefighters need to know about mitigating electrical emergencies
The five Cs of radio communications help firefighters deliver effective size-ups and status reports
From active firefighter to engaged civilian: It’s time to reflect and move forward