Technology
is all around us and changing rapidly every day. We have a vast world of
knowledge at our finger tips on just about any subject you can imagine. IPhones,IPads,
and Android devices all have “apps for that” no matter what it is you want.
The fire
service is no different. You can find a variety of apps for firefighting, from
friction loss calculators and shift calendars, to ERG books and event time
loggers. You can even get your pre-plans and reporting software on your phone
or tablet device. All of these things make certain aspects of our job more convenient,
but when it comes to good old fashion, boots on the ground firefighting, there
is no app!
There
is no way to replace or reproduce what is taught on the training ground or fire
scene. There’s no app that can take the place of the guy that has been on the
department for 25-30 years and all the knowledge he offers to share while
sitting around the kitchen table or while training.
Our job
requires quick thinking, adapting to changing situations, and working in some
of the worst conditions imaginable. These are things that can only be learned
by watching and listening to those that have been there and done that, and by
actually getting in there and doing it yourself. A good instructor teaching a
pump ops class is worth a thousand times more than a .99 cent friction loss
app.
I guess
what it really boils down to is that no matter how many devices are out there,
or new technologies come our way, there are some things that are better to be
done the old fashion way, by putting the phone or tablet down, getting up and doing
work. Listen to those that take to time to offer wisdom; they usually know what
they are talking about. There is nothing wrong with using technology to help
you, and lord knows I need all the help I can get, but there is nothing out
there that can help you do what you do. Firefighting is still a hands on, grab
it and growl job, so get out and get after it.
Stay Safe!
I love sitting by and listening to the "old timers" at my husband's department share stories and advice with my husband. It's amazing to see these guys who have been on the department for 30-40 years pass this information and wealth on to the next generation.
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