FireRescue/FirefighterNation Announce 2014 Fire Service Writers Awards

Each year, the fire service is inundated with new equipment, new technologies and new research. Keeping up with it can be a challenge for even the most dedicated firefighter. Fortunately, there’s a small army of people working behind the scenes to help you do just that: fire service writers.

These individuals share a passion for spreading knowledge, and they work tirelessly to explain new tactics, test new products and share information–and some simply write to remind us of the all-important basics, and not to forget our traditions. Through video clips, blog posts, social media sharing and articles in trade magazines, fire service writers play a critical role in educating up-and-coming and seasoned firefighters.

FirefighterNation.com, FireRescue magazine and FireEMSBlogs.com created the Fire Service Writers Awards to recognize the efforts of some of those writers. The third annual awards were presented at a special reception on Friday, April 11, during FDIC in Indianapolis.

“Our writers are closely connected to the latest developments in the fire service, whether that’s fire behavior research or the need for cultural change,” says Tim Sendelbach, editor-in-chief of FireRescue magazine/FirefighterNation.com. “At the same time, they’re able to drill down from a theoretical level and provide practical training drills and information that firefighters can use right away. Fire service blogs and magazines continue to challenge and support this profession.”

This year’s awardees are:

Randy Frassetto–for “The Metal Roof Tests,” May 2013
Through his work with the Arizona Ladder Operations Cadre, Frassetto regularly tries out new truck company tactics and shares the results with FireRescue’s readers, sometimes accompanied by excellent training videos. “This article epitomizes the thorough, research-based approach Randy takes to all his articles,” Sendelbach says. “The tests performed on a metal roof of a commercial building revealed critical risks to firefighter safety. Randy’s article highlighted some ways to mitigate those risks and ensure a safe and effective operation.”

Jason Hoevelmann–for A Firefighter’s Own Worst Enemy blog and other contributions
Many fire service writers become affiliated with just one magazine or website, but Jason Hoevelmann has consistently worked across various media to reach as many firefighters as possible. In his blogs on FireEngineering.com and FireEMSBlogs.com, he provides quick company drills and training tips. He’s also written for FirefighterNation, FireRescue and Fire Engineering, among others. “Jason clearly demonstrates the attitude that we’re in this to reach the widest possible audience and educate as many firefighters as possible,” Sendelbach says. “Further, he aims his writing squarely at the most influential role in the fire service–that of the company officer.”

Greg Jakubowski, author of FireRescue’s Fire Attack column, for 25 years of service
“Seldom do we have the honor of recognizing a writer for 25 years of service,” Sendelbach says. “Greg is a key member of the FireRescue team and has been with us since we were known as Firefighter’s News.” In addition to his bimonthly contributions to the Fire Attack column, Jakubowski has written numerous feature articles and product reviews, provided technical expertise on various topics and helped promote the FireRescue brand. “It’s contributors like Greg that help us not to lose sight of Jim Page’s vision,” Sendelbach says.

Mike Kirby & Tom Lakamp, authors of FireRescue’s Fire Attack column, for 5 years of service
“Mike and Tom’s Fire Attack column consistently provides practical, focused strategies that break down the duties of an engine company and show readers how to perfect the craft of pulling a line, finding the fire, determining the needed fire flow, and much more,” says Sendelbach. “Yet they combine this back-to-the-basics approach with cutting-edge research and new information.” The result: Articles that challenge readers to think about their actions on the fireground, and make adjustments to meet the reality of today’s fire environment.

Kevin Milan and Forest Reeder–for their new column, “Train the Trainer”
“There is a huge amount of new information about fire science, fire behavior and changes that need to be made in our traditional tactics,” Sendelbach says. “But that information will be lost unless we ensure that the next generation of fire service instructors understands the new research and can pass it along to those they teach.” Kevin Milan and Forest Reeder stepped up to the plate to do just that, with their “Train the Trainer” column that focuses on describing recent research in plain language and demonstrating directly how new knowledge fits into traditional tactics.

Chris Naum–for the “Buildings on Fire” material featured on his blogs, CommandSafety.com and CompanyOfficer.com
Chris Naum’s work on building construction is well known throughout the fire service, and he uses his blogs to educate firefighters about the role building construction has played in firefighter injuries and deaths. “In the tradition of Frank Brannigan, Chris focuses on the intricacies of building construction and how it contributes to risk on the fireground,” Sendelbach says. “As building construction continues to incorporate new materials and technology, the ability to ‘read the building’ and determine how it might react under fire conditions will only become more important. Chris’ blogs are helping arm firefighters with the information they need to do this.”

Congratulations to these deserving winners and thank you to all our writers and bloggers for their year-round contributions!