“Metro Chiefs is leading the fire service — and I know there are other entities that would argue that, but I’ll take that to the bank.” Fire Chief John Butler, president of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association,” emphasizes the influence of the association, which represents just 1% of departments but covers 50% of population. Part of Metro’s influence stems from its unique governance, with its “two parents” — the IAFC and the NFPA. Chief Otto Drozd, Metro Chiefs executive secretary, also explains why the association acts as a “safe space” for fire chiefs to share challenges and ideas. We dig into this and more:

• The associations quest to grow membership

• Why relationships are “high octane” for Metro

• How to tap into Metro Chiefs resources

• What’s on the agenda for the next Urban Fire Forum

This episode of the Better Every Shift Podcast is sponsored by TheFireStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting TheFireStore.

Enjoying the show? Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback.

In the nanosecond after hearing the mayday, Castle Rock (Colorado) Battalion Chief Eric Morgenthaler went from “Is this really happening?” to “I know what I need to do.” His crew had trained repeatedly on scenarios just like this — a firefighter through the floor. Morgenthaler shares a play by play of the mayday as well as his command mindset throughout the event. Additionally, Castle Rock Fire & Rescue has developed an after-action review and video so others can learn lessons and best practices from the incident.

Watch: Firefighter Mayday – After Action Review video

Download:

• 1907 Tee Lane Mayday AAR

• Fire Command Ready: Building Bench Strength

Sponsor shout-out: This episode of the Better Every Shift Podcast is sponsored by Pulsara. Whether replacing radio reports, alerting specialty teams, or managing mass-casualty incidents, Pulsara simplifies communication. One Tool. Every Day. Regardless of Event. Learn more at Pulsara.com. Enjoying the show? Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback.

This week’s Extra Alarm insights come to us from Paul Fawcett, tackling the critical role of logistics officers in emergency response operations. Fawcett addresses the necessity for a logistics team to manage and streamline complex responses, highlighting their responsibility to provide supplies and ensure that facilities, food, sanitation, lighting, power and communication needs are met. Additionally, learn about training resources offered by FEMA and other institutions to equip logistics officers for their roles.

Content read by Chief Marc Bashoor.