Technical Rescue: NATO & Terrorism The rescue community must be willing to learn from international partners By Harold Schapelhouman

Not long ago, I was asked to be one of the representatives from the United States rescue community to attend a NATO Science for Peace and Security Workshop held in Ericera, Portugal ... more »

Up Your MA
Increasing the mechanical advantage of your irons set
By Lt. Steve Shupert

Today, it's not uncommon to come across fortified doors. High crime areas and high-security buildings often beef up their barrier protection against break-ins. The problem: The same barriers erected to keep out criminals can stop firefighters … more »

The Cutting Edge: Glass Management Important tips for removing windshields & other vehicle glass By Brad Havrilla

Believe it or not, back in the day, if you needed to remove a windshield, you simply used hay bale hooks or cut the rubber gasket to remove the entire thing. This is obviously not the case nowadays … more »

Hit the Ground Running
Useful tips to keep your jogs pleasant & pain-free
By Fire Captains Jeff & Martha Ellis
Photo Martha Ellis

Running isn't for everyone, but it sure is a good way to improve aerobic capacity and burn fat. The problem most people experience with running: They begin after a long period without any physical activity and then try to run too far at too fast … more »

You CAN Take It with You
Portable master streams give firefighters more options, better access to fires
By Greg Jakubowski
Photo Gordon Nord, Jr.

Master streams were one of the first tools firefighters used after graduating from the bucket brigades. Early hand pumpers and steam pumpers were often equipped with a mounted nozzle through which firefighters could direct water. In many cases, this was the only mechanism firefighters had for applying water … more »