County Fire Tactics (CFT), will host the annual Water On The Fire Conference (WOFC) August 24th–26th, 2021, with two days of lecture, and one day of hands-on training (HOT) sessions at the Hilton Pensacola Beach Gulf Side Convention Center.
START YOUR REGISTRATION TO ATTEND WOFC 2021
CF Tactics 2021 Water On the Fire Conference will headline and feature two unique individual keynote presentations from Tim Klett and Ray McCormack, setting the tone for the week’s activities. Throughout the conference, attendees will learn about everything from water supply systems to nozzle streams and all the components in between.
Firefighters, Fire Officers, and Fire Chiefs will leave this conference with knowledge, skills, and abilities they can apply at their individual fire department based on their own unique setting and staffing. CFT will provide you with a complete understanding of how to get Water On the Fire from lessons learned in the classroom, and our hands-on training (H.O.T.) tracks.
The speaker and instructor line up listed below for CF Tactics WOFC is comprised of passionate firefighters who love the job and come from urban, suburban, and rural communities. Our cadre has years of credible, vetted, and trusted fire duty experience they will share over the three days and nights you will spend on Pensacola Beach.
The lecture events will occur Tuesday and Wednesday in the Royal Palm Ballroom, and the H.O.T. Tracks will be held Thursday at the Hilton properties.
WOFC 2021 SPEAKERS & INSTRUCTORS
Daryl Liggins
Captain
Oakland, CA
DAY 1 - August 24 | Session Descriptions
Keynote | The Risk in Training | Klett
The Risk in Training, Tim Klett
Tim Klett is a 30-year veteran of the fire service and recently retired from his position as a Lieutenant with FDNY serving on 88 Engine, located in the 7th Division in the Bronx. As an FDNY firefighter, Tim spent 12 years on 69 Engine, one of the FDNY’s busiest Engines located in Harlem, prior to his promotion.
Tim developed the Engine Company Operations course for the Fire Department Training Network and serves as the lead engine instructor at the FDTN Academy. In addition to being a frequent contributor to FDTN’s Fire Training, Tim has written many articles for Fire Engineering, Firehouse, Firehouse.com, the New York State Fire Chief’s Association Size-Up. Tim is also the author of Stretching and Operating the First Line and the upcoming Standpipe Operations for Engine Companies, both part of FDTN’s FireNotes series of training manuals.
Tim Klett is a 30-year veteran of the fire service and recently retired from his position as a Lieutenant with FDNY serving on 88 Engine, located in the 7th Division in the Bronx. As an FDNY firefighter, Tim spent 12 years on 69 Engine, one of the FDNY’s busiest Engines located in Harlem, prior to his promotion.
Tim developed the Engine Company Operations course for the Fire Department Training Network and serves as the lead engine instructor at the FDTN Academy. In addition to being a frequent contributor to FDTN’s Fire Training, Tim has written many articles for Fire Engineering, Firehouse, Firehouse.com, the New York State Fire Chief’s Association Size-Up. Tim is also the author of Stretching and Operating the First Line and the upcoming Standpipe Operations for Engine Companies, both part of FDTN’s FireNotes series of training manuals.
The Brass Tacks and Harder Facts | Herbst & Martin
The Brass Tacks and Harder Facts, Jerry Herbst & Chris Martin
A deep dive into the gamut that is the engine company discipline specifically heightening awareness to the various types of equipment that create fire streams.The student will gain a comfort level to go back to their own department and evaluate and test their own fire flow system.
More about Chris Martin
Chris has been in the fire service for 20 years and is a certified Indiana State Fire Instructor II/III. He worked as a student firefighter at the University of Notre Dame, where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration Degree, majoring in Marketing. He holds the rank as Engineer and serves as a Field Training Officer with the Clay Fire Territory in South Bend, Indiana where he has worked positions from firefighter up to Captain. Chris has worked for Elkhart Brass since 2000, functioning in Regional Sales Manager positions both domestically and internationally. Currently he is the Municipal Product Manager. In this role he focuses exclusively on new product development, technical training, and extensive interaction with end users and distribution to ensure that the voice of the customer is heard and understood.
More about Jerry Herbst
Jerry is a 37 year veteran of the Fire Service and is a New York State certified Training Officer. With over 25 years on the line Jerry has served in all rank positions including 6 years as Chief of Department in his local volunteer FD and ten years as a paid Deputy Chief Coordinator at the County Level. He is still an active Firefighter and Apparatus Operator. He has been with Elkhart Brass since 2006 serving as a Regional Manager, National Account Manager and Strategic Development Manager for Municipal Markets.
A deep dive into the gamut that is the engine company discipline specifically heightening awareness to the various types of equipment that create fire streams.The student will gain a comfort level to go back to their own department and evaluate and test their own fire flow system.
More about Chris Martin
Chris has been in the fire service for 20 years and is a certified Indiana State Fire Instructor II/III. He worked as a student firefighter at the University of Notre Dame, where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration Degree, majoring in Marketing. He holds the rank as Engineer and serves as a Field Training Officer with the Clay Fire Territory in South Bend, Indiana where he has worked positions from firefighter up to Captain. Chris has worked for Elkhart Brass since 2000, functioning in Regional Sales Manager positions both domestically and internationally. Currently he is the Municipal Product Manager. In this role he focuses exclusively on new product development, technical training, and extensive interaction with end users and distribution to ensure that the voice of the customer is heard and understood.
More about Jerry Herbst
Jerry is a 37 year veteran of the Fire Service and is a New York State certified Training Officer. With over 25 years on the line Jerry has served in all rank positions including 6 years as Chief of Department in his local volunteer FD and ten years as a paid Deputy Chief Coordinator at the County Level. He is still an active Firefighter and Apparatus Operator. He has been with Elkhart Brass since 2006 serving as a Regional Manager, National Account Manager and Strategic Development Manager for Municipal Markets.The Exponential Engine: From Theory to Application | Brush
The Exponential Engine: From Theory to Application, Brian Brush
This class presents a comprehensive, yet simple, approach to planning for the first-arriving engine fire attack when faced with exponential fire growth, limited staffing, or rapidly changing fire conditions. All departments should evaluate their fire stream systems from the source to the nozzle.The foundation of this concept consists of our three most common tools: the 1.75′-inch attack line, the 2.50′-inch attack line, and the deck gun.
More about Brian Brush
BRIAN BRUSH, a 20-year veteran of the fire service, is a Training Division Chief at Midwest City (OK) Fire Department. He has a bachelor’s degree in fire and emergency services administration and a Fire Officer designation from the CPSE. He instructs on a national level and writes for Fire Engineering.
This class presents a comprehensive, yet simple, approach to planning for the first-arriving engine fire attack when faced with exponential fire growth, limited staffing, or rapidly changing fire conditions. All departments should evaluate their fire stream systems from the source to the nozzle.The foundation of this concept consists of our three most common tools: the 1.75′-inch attack line, the 2.50′-inch attack line, and the deck gun.
More about Brian Brush
BRIAN BRUSH, a 20-year veteran of the fire service, is a Training Division Chief at Midwest City (OK) Fire Department. He has a bachelor’s degree in fire and emergency services administration and a Fire Officer designation from the CPSE. He instructs on a national level and writes for Fire Engineering.Trucks Do Put Out Fires | Ciampo
Trucks Do Put Out Fires, Mike Ciampo
Although the truck is second fiddle when it comes to extinguishing fire when we switch over to master streams they’ll play a pivotal part of extinguishment.When we switch over, firefighters must realize we are trying to limit our exterior streams so we can get back inside to extinguish the pockets of fire that still exist. This lecture will also cover trucks duties from using the can to delivery of water to the truck and then from the aerial or bucket of a tower ladder into a structure. At the end of this lecture the students will understand the trucks put out fires too.
More about Mike Ciampo
LT. Michael Ciampo joined the fire service in 1979 as a volunteer and began his professional career in 1985, he is a lieutenant in the Fire Department of New York. Previously, he served with the District of Columbia Fire Department and Wyckoff, NJ VFD. He has a bachelor’s degree in fire science from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, NY. He is the lead instructor for the FDIC Truck Essentials H.O.T. program and teaches at numerous seminars around the country.. He wrote the Ladder chapter and co-authored the Ventilation chapter for Fire Engineering’s Handbook for Firefighter I and II (Fire Engineering, 2009) and is featured in “Training Minutes” truck company videos on http://www.FireEngineering.com. His video Bread & Butter Portable Ladders DVD is available from Pennwell. His monthly column ON FIRE is on the back page of FIRE ENGINEERING.
Although the truck is second fiddle when it comes to extinguishing fire when we switch over to master streams they’ll play a pivotal part of extinguishment.When we switch over, firefighters must realize we are trying to limit our exterior streams so we can get back inside to extinguish the pockets of fire that still exist. This lecture will also cover trucks duties from using the can to delivery of water to the truck and then from the aerial or bucket of a tower ladder into a structure. At the end of this lecture the students will understand the trucks put out fires too.
More about Mike Ciampo
LT. Michael Ciampo joined the fire service in 1979 as a volunteer and began his professional career in 1985, he is a lieutenant in the Fire Department of New York. Previously, he served with the District of Columbia Fire Department and Wyckoff, NJ VFD. He has a bachelor’s degree in fire science from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, NY. He is the lead instructor for the FDIC Truck Essentials H.O.T. program and teaches at numerous seminars around the country.. He wrote the Ladder chapter and co-authored the Ventilation chapter for Fire Engineering’s Handbook for Firefighter I and II (Fire Engineering, 2009) and is featured in “Training Minutes” truck company videos on http://www.FireEngineering.com. His video Bread & Butter Portable Ladders DVD is available from Pennwell. His monthly column ON FIRE is on the back page of FIRE ENGINEERING.The First Line in Hoarder Occupancies | Klett
The First Line in Hoarder Occupancies, Tim Klett
Fires in Hoarder houses can present a multitude of problems on the fire ground, from access and egress, water application to the searches for possible victims. This lecture will discuss the common, and more over the uncommon signs indicating the possible presence of hoarding conditions.
It will cover the initial operations such as when encountering the 3 main types of conditions we can expect to find and also how to manage each condition individually. This lecture will also list some of the serious dangers these fires represent to firefighters operating in and around areas with hoarding conditions, and how to effectively do our jobs while safely evaluating each problem.
We will also cover the information chain, which is critical for the incident commander to constantly monitor the progress or lack of, there-by requiring an immediate change in tactics.
More about Tim Keltt
Tim Klett is a 30-year veteran of the fire service and recently retired from his position as a Lieutenant with FDNY serving on 88 Engine, located in the 7th Division in the Bronx. As an FDNY firefighter, Tim spent 12 years on 69 Engine, one of the FDNY’s busiest Engines located in Harlem, prior to his promotion.
Tim developed the Engine Company Operations course for the Fire Department Training Network and serves as the lead engine instructor at the FDTN Academy. In addition to being a frequent contributor to FDTN’s Fire Training, Tim has written many articles for Fire Engineering, Firehouse, Firehouse.com, the New York State Fire Chief’s Association Size-Up. Tim is also the author of Stretching and Operating the First Line and the upcoming Standpipe Operations for Engine Companies, both part of FDTN’s FireNotes series of training manuals.
Fires in Hoarder houses can present a multitude of problems on the fire ground, from access and egress, water application to the searches for possible victims. This lecture will discuss the common, and more over the uncommon signs indicating the possible presence of hoarding conditions.
It will cover the initial operations such as when encountering the 3 main types of conditions we can expect to find and also how to manage each condition individually. This lecture will also list some of the serious dangers these fires represent to firefighters operating in and around areas with hoarding conditions, and how to effectively do our jobs while safely evaluating each problem.
We will also cover the information chain, which is critical for the incident commander to constantly monitor the progress or lack of, there-by requiring an immediate change in tactics.
More about Tim Keltt
Tim Klett is a 30-year veteran of the fire service and recently retired from his position as a Lieutenant with FDNY serving on 88 Engine, located in the 7th Division in the Bronx. As an FDNY firefighter, Tim spent 12 years on 69 Engine, one of the FDNY’s busiest Engines located in Harlem, prior to his promotion.
Tim developed the Engine Company Operations course for the Fire Department Training Network and serves as the lead engine instructor at the FDTN Academy. In addition to being a frequent contributor to FDTN’s Fire Training, Tim has written many articles for Fire Engineering, Firehouse, Firehouse.com, the New York State Fire Chief’s Association Size-Up. Tim is also the author of Stretching and Operating the First Line and the upcoming Standpipe Operations for Engine Companies, both part of FDTN’s FireNotes series of training manuals.
DAY 2 - August 25 | Session Descriptions
Keynote | Firefighting Is An Inside Job | McCormack
Firefighting Is An Inside Job, Ray McCormack
Ray McCormack recently retired as a Lieutenant after 38 years. He holds a BA from the New York Institute of Technology. He was the chair and lead author for FDNYs new Engine Company Operations Manual.
He developed and taught Back to Basics Standpipe for all FDNY firefighters. He was the co-founder and editor of Urban Firefighter magazine. He sits on the FDIC advisory board and FireEngineering editorial board.
He was a panel member for two consecutive Underwriters Laboratories (UL) studies. Impact of Fire Attack Utilizing Interior & Exterior Streams on Firefighter Safety and Occupant Survival Study and Study of Coordinated Fire Attack Utilizing Acquired Structures. He lectures on Engine and Ladder Company Operations, Leadership and Improving Extinguishment Culture.
Ray McCormack recently retired as a Lieutenant after 38 years. He holds a BA from the New York Institute of Technology. He was the chair and lead author for FDNYs new Engine Company Operations Manual.
He developed and taught Back to Basics Standpipe for all FDNY firefighters. He was the co-founder and editor of Urban Firefighter magazine. He sits on the FDIC advisory board and FireEngineering editorial board.
He was a panel member for two consecutive Underwriters Laboratories (UL) studies. Impact of Fire Attack Utilizing Interior & Exterior Streams on Firefighter Safety and Occupant Survival Study and Study of Coordinated Fire Attack Utilizing Acquired Structures. He lectures on Engine and Ladder Company Operations, Leadership and Improving Extinguishment Culture.Coordinated Fire Attack | Stakes & McCormack
Coordinated Fire Attack, Keith Stakes & Ray McCormack
Over the past ten years, firefighting research into single family dwelling fires has focused primary on ventilation and suppression, independent from one another. With a solid understanding of horizontal, vertical, and positive pressure ventilation alongside both interior and exterior water application, it has come time to put the pieces together.
How do we begin to define coordination on the fireground? What makes for an effective fire attack? The UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute has just completed a study looking at the coordination of ventilation and suppression on the fireground.
The science from the lab was taken to the streets as experiments were conducted in acquired single family dwellings, garden style apartments, and a commercial strip mall. This study, much like all of our other studies, is guided by a technical panel of firefighters from across the country.
This presentation will provide an opportunity for UL FSRI to present the highlights and real world application of the research.
More about Keith Stakes
Keith Stakes is a member of the Underwriters Laboratories – Fire Safety Research Institute. As a Fire Protection Engineer, he studies the effectiveness of fire service tactics as well as advances in firefighter safety and fireground operations. He has both a Bachelor of Science Degree as well as a Masters of Engineering Degree in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland. Keith has over 15 years of fire service experience as a firefighter with the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad in Bethesda, Maryland where he currently holds the rank of Fire/Rescue Battalion Chief. Keith continues to serve on the NFPA Technical Committee for Fire Service Training and the Editorial Advisory Board for FireRescue1 and Fire Chief magazine.
More about Ray McCormack
Ray McCormack recently retired as a Lieutenant after 38 years. He holds a BA from the New York Institute of Technology. He was the chair and lead author for FDNYs new Engine Company Operations Manual.He developed and taught Back to Basics Standpipe for all FDNY firefighters. He was the co-founder and editor of Urban Firefighter magazine. He sits on the FDIC advisory board and FireEngineering editorial board. He was a panel member for two consecutive Underwriters Laboratories (UL) studies. Impact of Fire Attack Utilizing Interior & Exterior Streams on Firefighter Safety and Occupant Survival Study and Study of Coordinated Fire Attack Utilizing Acquired Structures. He lectures on Engine and Ladder Company Operations, Leadership and Improving Extinguishment Culture.
Keith Stakes is a member of the Underwriters Laboratories – Fire Safety Research Institute. As a Fire Protection Engineer, he studies the effectiveness of fire service tactics as well as advances in firefighter safety and fireground operations. He has both a Bachelor of Science Degree as well as a Masters of Engineering Degree in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland. Keith has over 15 years of fire service experience as a firefighter with the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad in Bethesda, Maryland where he currently holds the rank of Fire/Rescue Battalion Chief. Keith continues to serve on the NFPA Technical Committee for Fire Service Training and the Editorial Advisory Board for FireRescue1 and Fire Chief magazine.
More about Ray McCormack
Ray McCormack recently retired as a Lieutenant after 38 years. He holds a BA from the New York Institute of Technology. He was the chair and lead author for FDNYs new Engine Company Operations Manual.He developed and taught Back to Basics Standpipe for all FDNY firefighters. He was the co-founder and editor of Urban Firefighter magazine. He sits on the FDIC advisory board and FireEngineering editorial board. He was a panel member for two consecutive Underwriters Laboratories (UL) studies. Impact of Fire Attack Utilizing Interior & Exterior Streams on Firefighter Safety and Occupant Survival Study and Study of Coordinated Fire Attack Utilizing Acquired Structures. He lectures on Engine and Ladder Company Operations, Leadership and Improving Extinguishment Culture.A Culture Preconnected is Slowing the Advance | Liggins
A Culture Preconnected is Slowing the Advance, Daryl Liggins
There is no greater impact a fire department can have on the outcome of a fire than a well placed and properly operating initial attack handline. The stretch needs to be rapid, simple and appropriately staffed. The equipment needs to be user friendly, easy to use, reliable and durable. We have many of the answers to what equipment in the industry meets these needs however, those of us attempting to make changes back home meet many roadblocks. In this presentation I will walk you through the experiences I have had implementing changes and how culture, pride, history and status quo bias can slow the advance.
More about Daryl Liggins
Daryl Liggins is a 29 year veteran of the fire service. He is currently assigned as the Captain of Training for the Oakland, CA fire department. He previously served as a firefighter/engineer with the Redwood City, CA Fire Department. He instructs engine company operations for the Oakland fire departments fire academies and is the chair of Oakland fire departments hose and nozzle committee. He currently sits on the board of directors for Fire Nuggets which is a non-profit group run by firefighter to bring affordable training across the US. He has served as an adjunct HOT instructor for FDIC, Firehouse world and several other conferences.
There is no greater impact a fire department can have on the outcome of a fire than a well placed and properly operating initial attack handline. The stretch needs to be rapid, simple and appropriately staffed. The equipment needs to be user friendly, easy to use, reliable and durable. We have many of the answers to what equipment in the industry meets these needs however, those of us attempting to make changes back home meet many roadblocks. In this presentation I will walk you through the experiences I have had implementing changes and how culture, pride, history and status quo bias can slow the advance.
More about Daryl Liggins
Daryl Liggins is a 29 year veteran of the fire service. He is currently assigned as the Captain of Training for the Oakland, CA fire department. He previously served as a firefighter/engineer with the Redwood City, CA Fire Department. He instructs engine company operations for the Oakland fire departments fire academies and is the chair of Oakland fire departments hose and nozzle committee. He currently sits on the board of directors for Fire Nuggets which is a non-profit group run by firefighter to bring affordable training across the US. He has served as an adjunct HOT instructor for FDIC, Firehouse world and several other conferences.Push/Pull Communications | Blake
Push/Pull Communications, Jay Blake
Fireground communications can be chaotic, and a lack of information can lead to injuries or a LODD. This presentation will provide good information that crews should push to command and what information can wait until command pulls it from crews. The first due engine officer must push good information to those responding, to set the incident up for success.
More about Jay Blake
Jay is currently assigned as a Battalion Chief and back up PIO for Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service in Maryland.
Fireground communications can be chaotic, and a lack of information can lead to injuries or a LODD. This presentation will provide good information that crews should push to command and what information can wait until command pulls it from crews. The first due engine officer must push good information to those responding, to set the incident up for success.
More about Jay Blake
Jay is currently assigned as a Battalion Chief and back up PIO for Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service in Maryland.Engine Company Operations During Civil Unrest | Hall
Engine Company Operations During Civil Unrest, Jon Hall
The threat of civil unrest is ever present in our modern society. These events often result from elections sporting events trials perceived injustices or use of force cases. The ensuing fire duty can rapidly tax available resources and present unheard of challenges to responding firefighters.
As a result engine companies must adjust their mindsets, strategies and tactics to safely and effectively respond to these incidents. Attendees will examine security issues, building construction and occupancy features, attack line considerations, water supplies and the effectiveness of past responses.
More about Jon Hall
Jon has more than 19 years of fire service experience. He currently is a captain with the St. Paul, MN, Fire Department assigned to Engine Company 14. Hall also serves as a lead instructor in the department’s Training Division; he teaches hands-on skills to members of all ranks.
Hall is the co-owner of Make The Move Training LLC and teaches engine company operations throughout the country.
The threat of civil unrest is ever present in our modern society. These events often result from elections sporting events trials perceived injustices or use of force cases. The ensuing fire duty can rapidly tax available resources and present unheard of challenges to responding firefighters.
As a result engine companies must adjust their mindsets, strategies and tactics to safely and effectively respond to these incidents. Attendees will examine security issues, building construction and occupancy features, attack line considerations, water supplies and the effectiveness of past responses.
More about Jon Hall
Jon has more than 19 years of fire service experience. He currently is a captain with the St. Paul, MN, Fire Department assigned to Engine Company 14. Hall also serves as a lead instructor in the department’s Training Division; he teaches hands-on skills to members of all ranks.
Hall is the co-owner of Make The Move Training LLC and teaches engine company operations throughout the country.DAY 3 - August 26 | Session Descriptions
After the morning keynote by Chief Isakson attendees will have the option to attend the all day lecture session by Dennis LeGear, or rotate through the HOT Sessions.
Each HOT session will be offered three times, twice in the AM, and once in the PM. Specific meeting times and lunch break times will be announced during your attendance at WOFC 2021 for Day 3.
Keynote | The Art of War | Isakson
The Art of War, Curt Isakson
The Art of War is really about the Top Priority!!! People Before Water 💦 is about conducting an effective oriented search 🔦 that will produce the best results. We now have DATA that helps us focus on what Tactics will produce the Best Results for our staffing and locale. I have been to, too many fires 🔥 where literally SECONDS MATTER ON LIFE AND DEATH 💀. I personally have not had a Private Dwelling Fire where not catching a hydrant by one of the first two apparatus cost anyone’s life. I have been to a bunch where the first two going straight in saved Lives and Property. Remember it’s 3 minutes and 40 seconds today till FLASHOVER and not 30 Minutes like our Father’s and Grandfather’s Fires. People Before Water 💦 WILL SAVE MORE LIVES!! You can count on it.
More abut Curt Isakson
Curt “Ike” Isakson is a 30+ year veteran of the fire service, with experience working in volunteer, career, and combination departments in urban, suburban, rural, and countywide settings. He is currently a Battalion Chief for Escambia County Fire Rescue in Florida where he has worked for the last 21 years. Curt is the founder of County Fire Tactics, a platform for teaching firefighter accross the country from urban, suburban, and rural settings, because it’s all in the county.
Before his time with Escambia, Curt was a Company Officer with the Pensacola Fire Department assigned to Heavy Rescue 31 for 9 years. His fire service experience started at a young age as a Junior Firefighter with the Midway Fire Protection District and rose through the ranks to Captain.
The Art of War is really about the Top Priority!!! People Before Water 💦 is about conducting an effective oriented search 🔦 that will produce the best results. We now have DATA that helps us focus on what Tactics will produce the Best Results for our staffing and locale. I have been to, too many fires 🔥 where literally SECONDS MATTER ON LIFE AND DEATH 💀. I personally have not had a Private Dwelling Fire where not catching a hydrant by one of the first two apparatus cost anyone’s life. I have been to a bunch where the first two going straight in saved Lives and Property. Remember it’s 3 minutes and 40 seconds today till FLASHOVER and not 30 Minutes like our Father’s and Grandfather’s Fires. People Before Water 💦 WILL SAVE MORE LIVES!! You can count on it.
More abut Curt Isakson
Curt “Ike” Isakson is a 30+ year veteran of the fire service, with experience working in volunteer, career, and combination departments in urban, suburban, rural, and countywide settings. He is currently a Battalion Chief for Escambia County Fire Rescue in Florida where he has worked for the last 21 years. Curt is the founder of County Fire Tactics, a platform for teaching firefighter accross the country from urban, suburban, and rural settings, because it’s all in the county.
Before his time with Escambia, Curt was a Company Officer with the Pensacola Fire Department assigned to Heavy Rescue 31 for 9 years. His fire service experience started at a young age as a Junior Firefighter with the Midway Fire Protection District and rose through the ranks to Captain.Hydrants to Nozzles | LeGear
Hydrants to Nozzles, Dennis LeGear
Hydrants to Nozzles takes a comprehensive look at engine layout, equipment spec (pumps/hose/nozzles) hydraulics, and its direct impact on strategies and tactics on the fire ground. Hydrants to Nozzles takes a comprehensive look at engine layout, equipment spec (pumps/hose/nozzles) hydraulics, and its direct impact on strategies and tactics on the fire ground. Students of all ranks will build a strong foundation for success and be better prepared to make strategic and tactical decisions on the fire ground with a realistic working look at gold standard movement of water from the Hydrant to the Nozzle.
More about Dennis LeGear
Dennis is a retired Captain of the Oakland, CA Fire Department. During his career Dennis was an integral part of the team that implemented a new engine configuration for Oakland Fire Department as the water supply officer. After his retirement he continued to pursue this role but as a consultant for other fire departments. Dennis has provided technical advice to some of the largest fire agencies in the nation including, Portland, Seattle, Boston and the City of New York. Dennis consulted with water municipalities assisting in the development of emergency response plans for a variety of water infrastructure problems related to seismic events and other disasters.
Dennis also has played a key role for the fire service on a national level participating in UL studies on fire streams, providing technical knowledge for Pennwell publications and NFPA standards.
Hydrants to Nozzles takes a comprehensive look at engine layout, equipment spec (pumps/hose/nozzles) hydraulics, and its direct impact on strategies and tactics on the fire ground. Hydrants to Nozzles takes a comprehensive look at engine layout, equipment spec (pumps/hose/nozzles) hydraulics, and its direct impact on strategies and tactics on the fire ground. Students of all ranks will build a strong foundation for success and be better prepared to make strategic and tactical decisions on the fire ground with a realistic working look at gold standard movement of water from the Hydrant to the Nozzle.
More about Dennis LeGear
Dennis is a retired Captain of the Oakland, CA Fire Department. During his career Dennis was an integral part of the team that implemented a new engine configuration for Oakland Fire Department as the water supply officer. After his retirement he continued to pursue this role but as a consultant for other fire departments. Dennis has provided technical advice to some of the largest fire agencies in the nation including, Portland, Seattle, Boston and the City of New York. Dennis consulted with water municipalities assisting in the development of emergency response plans for a variety of water infrastructure problems related to seismic events and other disasters.
Dennis also has played a key role for the fire service on a national level participating in UL studies on fire streams, providing technical knowledge for Pennwell publications and NFPA standards. HOT | ULFSRI Hallway | Stakes, Alt
HOT | ULFSRI Hallway | Stakes & Alt
In this class we will take a practical look at where our water goes, and how our choice of stream and advancement pattern affect our environment. Where does our water go? It’s rare that we actually get to see what our water does when it hits a surface during a fire. Conditions are typically too obstructed by smoke or other things to get a good picture of what our water is doing when it leaves our nozzle.
Does it create a sprinkler and fan out in hundreds of little droplets? A lot of us were taught that if we find ourselves in a bad spot, to put our heads down with the nozzle pointing straight up at the ceiling and keep it open until the situation gets better. Is that really the best way?
In this class we will help answer those questions and more. The next piece in your fire attack is your advance. We have all heard many different debates on whether or not you can push fire…can you?
Can you as a nozzle operator push heat and smoke with your nozzle? If you could, are there times when you shouldn’t? In this class we will go over if and how you can move air with your nozzle, also talking about times it can be beneficial, and when it might not be. The purpose of this class is to give you the practical knowledge gained by research, to help you be more effective with the nozzle and have a better awareness of your actions at your next fire. This class truly takes science to the streets.
HOT | Forcing Doors | Ciampo, Cassetta
HOT Session, Forcing Doors
More about Mike Ciampo
LT. Michael Ciampo joined the fire service in 1979 as a volunteer and began his professional career in 1985, he is a lieutenant in the Fire Department of New York. Previously, he served with the District of Columbia Fire Department and Wyckoff, NJ VFD. He has a bachelor’s degree in fire science from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, NY. He is the lead instructor for the FDIC Truck Essentials H.O.T. program and teaches at numerous seminars around the country.. He wrote the Ladder chapter and co-authored the Ventilation chapter for Fire Engineering’s Handbook for Firefighter I and II (Fire Engineering, 2009) and is featured in “Training Minutes” truck company videos on http://www.FireEngineering.com. His video Bread & Butter Portable Ladders DVD is available from Pennwell. His monthly column ON FIRE is on the back page of FIRE ENGINEERING.
More about J.J. Casetta
Has been a career firefighter for over 22 years and is a Lieutenant with the City of Orlando (FL) Fire Department. There he has served for the past 15 years and is currently assigned to Tower 10. He previously served as a firefighter with the City of Cincinnati (OH) Fire Department. JJ earned a BS degree in Fire Protection Administration from Eastern Kentucky University. He is Florida state certified instructor and has taught classes at local and national conferences on Truck Company Tactics.
LT. Michael Ciampo joined the fire service in 1979 as a volunteer and began his professional career in 1985, he is a lieutenant in the Fire Department of New York. Previously, he served with the District of Columbia Fire Department and Wyckoff, NJ VFD. He has a bachelor’s degree in fire science from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, NY. He is the lead instructor for the FDIC Truck Essentials H.O.T. program and teaches at numerous seminars around the country.. He wrote the Ladder chapter and co-authored the Ventilation chapter for Fire Engineering’s Handbook for Firefighter I and II (Fire Engineering, 2009) and is featured in “Training Minutes” truck company videos on http://www.FireEngineering.com. His video Bread & Butter Portable Ladders DVD is available from Pennwell. His monthly column ON FIRE is on the back page of FIRE ENGINEERING.
More about J.J. Casetta
Has been a career firefighter for over 22 years and is a Lieutenant with the City of Orlando (FL) Fire Department. There he has served for the past 15 years and is currently assigned to Tower 10. He previously served as a firefighter with the City of Cincinnati (OH) Fire Department. JJ earned a BS degree in Fire Protection Administration from Eastern Kentucky University. He is Florida state certified instructor and has taught classes at local and national conferences on Truck Company Tactics.HOT | Can Confidence | Wheaton
HOT Session, Can Confidence, Wheaton
A look into gaining can confidence for fire ground success. The 2 1⁄2 gallon water extinguisher, the can, allows the search team to quickly place water between the fire and potential victims.
Unfortunately, due to lack of confidence, it is arguably the most underutilized tool in the fire service found on nearly every fire apparatus. Let’s start the life-saving extinguishment process by applying what could be, the fire’s first interaction with water.
More about Eric Wheaton
Eric Wheaton is the Owner of VentEnterSearch, LLC. He is a second-generation fireman for Winter Park (FL) Fire Department and is currently assigned as a Lieutenant on Truck 61. Eric has spent a majority of his career on the Truck Company. Eric is an instructor for the Truck Company Operations and Special Operations programs at Valencia College’s Central Florida Fire Institute.
He holds an associate degree in Fire Science and is an advisory board member on the UL-FSRI Size-up and search & rescue study. Eric has taught at many fire conferences across the country, including FDIC, Portland Firemanship Conference, Orlando Fire Conference, Fort Lauderdale Fire Expo, Metro Atlanta Firefighter Conference and Water on the Fire Conference.
A look into gaining can confidence for fire ground success. The 2 1⁄2 gallon water extinguisher, the can, allows the search team to quickly place water between the fire and potential victims.
Unfortunately, due to lack of confidence, it is arguably the most underutilized tool in the fire service found on nearly every fire apparatus. Let’s start the life-saving extinguishment process by applying what could be, the fire’s first interaction with water.
More about Eric Wheaton
Eric Wheaton is the Owner of VentEnterSearch, LLC. He is a second-generation fireman for Winter Park (FL) Fire Department and is currently assigned as a Lieutenant on Truck 61. Eric has spent a majority of his career on the Truck Company. Eric is an instructor for the Truck Company Operations and Special Operations programs at Valencia College’s Central Florida Fire Institute.
He holds an associate degree in Fire Science and is an advisory board member on the UL-FSRI Size-up and search & rescue study. Eric has taught at many fire conferences across the country, including FDIC, Portland Firemanship Conference, Orlando Fire Conference, Fort Lauderdale Fire Expo, Metro Atlanta Firefighter Conference and Water on the Fire Conference.HOT | Bulk Bed Stretches | Liggins, Brush
HOT Session, Bluk Bed Stretches
More about Daryl Liggins
Daryl Liggins is a 29 year veteran of the fire service. He is currently assigned as the Captain of Training for the Oakland, CA fire department. He previously served as a firefighter/engineer with the Redwood City, CA Fire Department. He instructs engine company operations for the Oakland fire departments fire academies and is the chair of Oakland fire departments hose and nozzle committee.
He currently sits on the board of directors for Fire Nuggets which is a non-profit group run by firefighter to bring affordable training across the US. He has served as an adjunct HOT instructor for FDIC, Firehouse world and several other conferences.
More about Brian Brush
Brian is a 20-year veteran of the fire service, is a Training Division Chief at Midwest City (OK) Fire Department.
He has a bachelor’s degree in fire and emergency services administration and a Fire Officer designation from the CPSE. He instructs on a national level and writes for Fire Engineering.
HOT | Hoseline Choices | Stone, Edwards
HOT Session, Hoseline Choices
More about Shannon Stone
Shannon Stone is a twenty-nine year fire service veteran. After eleven years as a Battalion Chief in Fort Walton Beach, FL, Chief Stone is now inthe Deputy Chief of Operations position at nearby Midway Fire District. Shannon teaches often with County Fire Tactics, is a founder of 850 Fireman, and has presented around the country. Along with with brother, DJ, he’s unveiling an exciting new class called Anatomy of a Rescue at FDIC 2020.
More about Todd Edwards
Todd Edwards has over 36 years of experience in the fire services. Starting his career at 16 years old with a small combination department in Ohio, Todd then moved to Georgia where he spent more than 30 years with Atlanta Fire Rescue. During his career with Atlanta, he held a variety of positions including Captain, Battalion Chief and Assistant Fire Chief. While with Atlanta, Todd developed and taught the majority of the city training curriculum, and co-developed the city Standard Operating Guidelines. After retiring in 2018, he served the city as a consultant and the lead instructor / coordinator for Atlanta’s Officer Development Program. While working with Atlanta, Todd was also the Lead Instructor for Walton County Fire Rescue in northeast Georgia. For the past 20 years, Todd has also been an adjunct instructor for the Georgia Fire Academy. Todd has also developed countless training programs currently being utilized by numerous departments, specializing in department-based curriculums for training and fire ground operations.
Shannon Stone is a twenty-nine year fire service veteran. After eleven years as a Battalion Chief in Fort Walton Beach, FL, Chief Stone is now inthe Deputy Chief of Operations position at nearby Midway Fire District. Shannon teaches often with County Fire Tactics, is a founder of 850 Fireman, and has presented around the country. Along with with brother, DJ, he’s unveiling an exciting new class called Anatomy of a Rescue at FDIC 2020.
More about Todd Edwards
Todd Edwards has over 36 years of experience in the fire services. Starting his career at 16 years old with a small combination department in Ohio, Todd then moved to Georgia where he spent more than 30 years with Atlanta Fire Rescue. During his career with Atlanta, he held a variety of positions including Captain, Battalion Chief and Assistant Fire Chief. While with Atlanta, Todd developed and taught the majority of the city training curriculum, and co-developed the city Standard Operating Guidelines. After retiring in 2018, he served the city as a consultant and the lead instructor / coordinator for Atlanta’s Officer Development Program. While working with Atlanta, Todd was also the Lead Instructor for Walton County Fire Rescue in northeast Georgia. For the past 20 years, Todd has also been an adjunct instructor for the Georgia Fire Academy. Todd has also developed countless training programs currently being utilized by numerous departments, specializing in department-based curriculums for training and fire ground operations.HOT | XD Nation | McCormack, Robertson, Plofkin
HOT Session XD Nation Nozzle Operations
Facilitated by McCormack, Plofkin and Robertson
This half day class is all about improving your nozzle technique for a variety of fire attack situations based on the latest experiential research-based fire attack theory. The class builds off the Brass Tacks Hard Facts video series and will cover new tools and equipment along with best practices for residential and commercial water placement for rural, suburban and urban fire operations. The class is a mix of lecture, demonstration and hands-on training.
How to examine the serviceability of your nozzles under both wet and dry conditions.
Examine the differences between bleeding the nozzle for residential and standpipe fire attack.
Examine several different standpipe valves and PRD you may encounter and how to utilize them for fire attack.
Examine static, residual and operational attack pressure utilizing standpipe pressure gauges.
Examine the impact of various exterior fire control methods such as open space stream entry, from break over to lentil hits from various distances and attack angles.
Demonstrate when and how to sweep the floor with the nozzle and when to use the Bounce technique.
Examine how exterior nozzle usage and interior attack differ.
Examine the impact of the door behind you for fire attack.
Flow through a range of SB and fog nozzle patterns to determine flow coverage, distance and air entrainment levels and how that impacts operations.
Analyze the differences between “stop and flow” and “flow and move” nozzle advancement.
Demonstrate how 65 #’s NR should be the new standard for flow and move support.
Demonstrate the difference between water mapping and stream placement.
Build awareness of water flow against drop ceilings and its impact on fire attack.
Examine the benefits of base fire extinguishment.
Examine an upper height nozzle technique that avoids hitting the ceiling tiles
Examine adding 2.5” gate valves to standpipe operations, deck guns and hydrant barrels.
Examine both the O, lower case n and side to side nozzle technique on coverage area.
Cycling the nozzle, half bale operations, following the fire with water and fog tip applications.
Demonstrate specialty equipment Bresnan Distributor, High Rise nozzle, Cockloft and Bent tips.
HOT | Preconnects | Hall, Blake
HOT Session Preconnects
More about Jon Hall
Jon has more than 19 years of fire service experience. He currently is a captain with the St. Paul, MN, Fire Department assigned to Engine Company 14. Hall also serves as a lead instructor in the department’s Training Division; he teaches hands-on skills to members of all ranks.
Hall is the co-owner of Make The Move Training LLC and teaches engine company operations throughout the country.
More about Jay Blake
Jay is currently assigned as a Battalion Chief and back up PIO for Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service in Maryland.
Jon has more than 19 years of fire service experience. He currently is a captain with the St. Paul, MN, Fire Department assigned to Engine Company 14. Hall also serves as a lead instructor in the department’s Training Division; he teaches hands-on skills to members of all ranks.
Hall is the co-owner of Make The Move Training LLC and teaches engine company operations throughout the country.
More about Jay Blake
Jay is currently assigned as a Battalion Chief and back up PIO for Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service in Maryland.HOT | Brass Tacks Hard-ER Facts | Martin, Herbst
HOT Session, Brass Tacks, Hard-ER Facts
Brass Tacks and Hard-ER Facts: Behind and Beyond the Series
This 4-hour course will take you behind the scenes of the making of the Brass Tacks & Hard Facts engine company training video series and beyond the facts presented.
It will be a deep dive in to the gamut that is the engine company discipline, specifically, heightening awareness to the various types of equipment that create fire streams and developing a basic understanding of the different types of nozzles in use today. It exposes the following critical factors contributing to success of the firefighter interaction with this equipment: Flow, function, relationship of pressure to GPM and limitations due to nozzle reaction. Specific manufacturer data will be presented to make a case for selections citing industry trends. Initiating change, committee development, and trial benchmarks will be discussed in detail. Lecture and hands on format will be combined to ensure each student has the comfort level to go back to their own department and evaluate and test their own fire flow system.
More about Chris Martin
Chris has been in the fire service for 20 years and is a certified Indiana State Fire Instructor II/III. He worked as a student firefighter at the University of Notre Dame, where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration Degree, majoring in Marketing. He holds the rank as Engineer and serves as a Field Training Officer with the Clay Fire Territory in South Bend, Indiana where he has worked positions from firefighter up to Captain.
Chris has worked for Elkhart Brass since 2000, functioning in Regional Sales Manager positions both domestically and internationally. Currently he is the Municipal Product Manager. In this role he focuses exclusively on new product development, technical training, and extensive interaction with end users and distribution to ensure that the voice of the customer is heard and understood.
More about Jerry Herbst
Jerry is a 37 year veteran of the Fire Service and is a New York State certified Training Officer. With over 25 years on the line Jerry has served in all rank positions including 6 years as Chief of Department in his local volunteer FD and ten years as a paid Deputy Chief Coordinator at the County Level.
He is still an active Firefighter and Apparatus Operator. He has been with Elkhart Brass since 2006 serving as a Regional Manager, National Account Manager and Strategic Development Manager for Municipal Markets.
Brass Tacks and Hard-ER Facts: Behind and Beyond the Series
This 4-hour course will take you behind the scenes of the making of the Brass Tacks & Hard Facts engine company training video series and beyond the facts presented.
It will be a deep dive in to the gamut that is the engine company discipline, specifically, heightening awareness to the various types of equipment that create fire streams and developing a basic understanding of the different types of nozzles in use today. It exposes the following critical factors contributing to success of the firefighter interaction with this equipment: Flow, function, relationship of pressure to GPM and limitations due to nozzle reaction. Specific manufacturer data will be presented to make a case for selections citing industry trends. Initiating change, committee development, and trial benchmarks will be discussed in detail. Lecture and hands on format will be combined to ensure each student has the comfort level to go back to their own department and evaluate and test their own fire flow system.
More about Chris Martin
Chris has been in the fire service for 20 years and is a certified Indiana State Fire Instructor II/III. He worked as a student firefighter at the University of Notre Dame, where he earned his Bachelor of Business Administration Degree, majoring in Marketing. He holds the rank as Engineer and serves as a Field Training Officer with the Clay Fire Territory in South Bend, Indiana where he has worked positions from firefighter up to Captain.
Chris has worked for Elkhart Brass since 2000, functioning in Regional Sales Manager positions both domestically and internationally. Currently he is the Municipal Product Manager. In this role he focuses exclusively on new product development, technical training, and extensive interaction with end users and distribution to ensure that the voice of the customer is heard and understood.
More about Jerry Herbst
Jerry is a 37 year veteran of the Fire Service and is a New York State certified Training Officer. With over 25 years on the line Jerry has served in all rank positions including 6 years as Chief of Department in his local volunteer FD and ten years as a paid Deputy Chief Coordinator at the County Level.
He is still an active Firefighter and Apparatus Operator. He has been with Elkhart Brass since 2006 serving as a Regional Manager, National Account Manager and Strategic Development Manager for Municipal Markets.HOT | Hose Packs | Romagus, Scanlon
HOT Session Hose Packs
More about Kyle Romagus
Kyle Romagus is a 17 year veteran with East Montgomery County Fire Department, has held the rank of captain for the last 11 years and is in love with engine work. Kyle owns and operates smoothbore cartel, teaches hot classes and lectures over engine operations for FD tactics nationwide,
Oathkeepers engine cadre and is also the admin of engine company resurrection. His main goal is to spread knowledge about Engine work to anyone that will listen and to leave the job better than he found it.
More about Matt Scallan
Matt is a Lieutenant with Escambia County Fire Rescue.
Kyle Romagus is a 17 year veteran with East Montgomery County Fire Department, has held the rank of captain for the last 11 years and is in love with engine work. Kyle owns and operates smoothbore cartel, teaches hot classes and lectures over engine operations for FD tactics nationwide,
Oathkeepers engine cadre and is also the admin of engine company resurrection. His main goal is to spread knowledge about Engine work to anyone that will listen and to leave the job better than he found it.
More about Matt Scallan
Matt is a Lieutenant with Escambia County Fire Rescue.CFT will require students to wear Work Boots, Work Gloves, and Long Pants for the HOT Sessions. No Bunker Gear Required.
The Hilton Pensacola Beach is the venue and host hotel for the Water On The Fire Conference (WOFC).The neighboring Hampton Inn Pensacola Beach shares the Hilton property, and the Holiday Inn Resort is next door.
The Surf & Sand Resort is across from the Pensacola Beach Pier, only a short walk away. All of these locations offer discounted rooms and no cost for parking.
DISCOUNTS, NETWORKING, SOCIAL ACTIVITIES, EXPERIENCES YOU WILL HAVE AT OUT EVENT.
- Nightly social activities to connect with instructors, and like-minded people.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner discounts.
- Beverage discounts with the CFT Tumbler
- Reduced room rates at two Hilton brand properties.
- Experience the passion of Chief Isakson and his team of CFT Presenters.
- Receive up to date information on tactics, strategy, and leadership.
- Learn from instructors who are shaping the future of our profession.
- Learning for all ranks from Firefighter, to Line Boss, to the Chief.
- Location … Location… Location…
- The ability to network with brothers and sisters from across the country.
- Investment of time in yourself and your department.
- Interaction with instructors where you can ask questions you need answered.
- Our events are organized and students treated like family, not dollar signs.
- Family friendly, so they know why you have your passion.
PNS Airport Ground Transportation for FREE ... FREE !!!
County Fire Tactics sponsored airport shuttles will get attendees to and from the Pensacola Airport (PNS) on Monday, and Friday only.
- Monday, 8/23/2021, arrivals will locate a Dream Catcher Shuttle outside Baggage Claim 3 at Pensacola International Airport.
- Friday, 8/27/2021, departures will locate a Dream Catcher Shuttle outside the Hilton Hotel lobby.
- Shuttle registration will open approximately one week before the conference. Registration required to ride.
CONFERENCE SERIES 2021-2022
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CONTACT CF TACTICS
Curt Isakson
Jessica Isakson
View a list of CF Tactics programs Chief Isakson can deliver at your next conference, seminar, symposium, or in house event. Utilize the links provided to reach Curt and Jessica for more information about booking Chief Isakson or our Pensacola Beach conference series.
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