SAFRE 2019

Today's structure fires are more dangerous than ever before.  Lightweight construction, low-mass synthetics, and open space floorplans have created a perfect storm for rapid, prolific fire growth and extreme behavior.  It is imperative for firefighters of all ranks and experience to be prepared for this battle.  The Art of Reading Smoke, developed by Dave Dodson and continued by Rob Backer, provides the knowledge necessary for first-arriving firefighters, officers, and chief officers to determine the fire's location and progression "from the seat" before seeing any flame.  

Through the extensive use of fireground video, first-time students will develop, and return students will refine, their knowledge and skills to become INTELLECTUALLY aggressive firefighters, rather than ARBITRARILY aggressive. The Next Generation brings new research, a new library of videos, and discussion on cancer prevention, tactics, and strategies to blend today's fire service extinguishment and safety cultures into one cohesive unit.