Our latest Tips from the Bucket comes from our brothers of Miami Dade Fire Rescue. This is an innovative way to force entry on a metal door while retaining the ability to secure the door after operations are complete. -Jimm-

It is becoming more and more popular for developers to attempt constucting their buildings to look different from all the others. Unfortunately, when this happens it sometimes has a negative impact on Fire Department operations in the structure. These aesthetically pleasing features sometimes only “look” like they would have a significant impact on our operations, when in fact some of them are easily bypassed or removed. Our own Darrell Coates recently found some of these features on a structure in his first due and took these photos. -Jimm-

Please check out the supplemental Deceiving Building Features page for more pictures and descriptions.

Be sure to check out our latest addition: The What’s in your Pockets page. I have always enjoyed asking other firefighters what they carry in their pockets, and why they decided to carry each different item. Everyone is encouraged to send in pictures and or descriptions of what they carry and why. Normally each item has a story or reason. It should be interesting to hear everyone’s input. –Jimm-

Here is a pair of channel lock pliers that have been modified to be used as a key tool. Check out the new page for a description of this handy tool.

We recently performed some much needed maintenance on the site… You’ve probably already seen the 20 most recent comments added to the sidebar. It should make things easier to follow. You’ll also notice that the sidebar looks more uniform, and the VentEnterSearch.com graphic on top is now clickable and will always bring you back to the homepage. We now have each of our pages opening in the same window instead of opening another window each time you click. We are trying to make the site as user friendly as possible.

These upgrades were ideas we received from various users… Thanks for the input! We are always looking for ideas and upgrades, so let us know! We will be changing the format of the links page soon, so keep an eye out for that.

We have not forgotten about the August articles, unfortunately we are a little behind schedule on them…

Thanks again for all of the support! –Jimm-

Check out the Tips from the Bucket section for a few simple ideas for training props. The one picture above is a great prop that won’t cost you a dime! We have a lot more tips that we will be placing on the site from time to time. We are always interested in hearing about your tips, send us an email and let us know what you’d like to see.

Here is a video clip from a recent three alarm motel fire in Phoenix. This is the fire where a section of roof falls and pins two firefighters. They were very fortunate, and were able to free themselves quickly. The moral of the story… Always check over your head! A quick hook into the ceiling will give you a good idea of the fire conditions overhead. As this video demonstrates, it’s even important to do prior to entry of the involved area. –Jimm-

Click here for video

The boys from Houston Firehouse 19 showing us they’ll do whatever it takes. Make sure you click on “comments” below to read our thoughts about this job. -Jeff- 

This video shown courtesy of our friends from TheBravestOnline.com