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 previously wrote, “Essays for Firefighters: A Path to Officership.” Spell passed away in April 2024 after a short battle with cancer. His last four articles detailed his cancer journey.

LATET ARTICLES

How to manage a chain-reaction vehicle crash

The number of victims, the distance they are spread across and the natural hazards make these extremely tough incidents to bring order to

March 28, 2016 10:42 AM

Jim Spell

4 initial fire attack missteps

These short-cut mistakes can quickly compound into bigger issues that compromise safety and the fire attack

February 02, 2016 05:24 PM

Jim Spell

Fire Careers

Why firefighting is like football

Winning and losing on both fields of play have more in common than you might think, while the stakes for one are much higher

December 31, 2015 04:09 PM

Jim Spell

Fire Careers

The firefighter job interview: How to stand out

Here’s how to be your best in the firefighter oral interview, plus 12 do’s and don’ts

November 02, 2015 04:02 PM

Jim Spell

Training Products

Fire engineers: 12 rookie mistakes

Viewed as opportunity or setback, the jump to the driver’s seat brings a new set of responsibilities for firefighters

October 13, 2015 05:01 PM

Jim Spell

China’s hazmat tragedy: A lesson in response

Not knowing the hazardous materials they faced or how to address them doomed an under-trained firefighting force

August 20, 2015 08:20 PM

Jim Spell

Firefighter response: Senior-living facilities

Whether evacuating, protecting in place, or both, firefighters need a great deal of planning and understanding for emergencies at senior-care facilities

May 04, 2015 11:28 AM

Jim Spell

Leadership

Be a better firefighter with post-incident analysis

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

March 03, 2015 10:30 AM

Jim Spell

6 ways to be a better firefighter this year

The death knell has sounded for many a good-intentioned resolution; here are promises to improve your career that you can and should keep

February 17, 2015 07:22 PM

Jim Spell

Fire response: How not to ruin the holidays

When holiday celebrations go wrong, we get the call; follow these tips for safe and effective responses this season

November 29, 2014 12:41 PM

Jim Spell